Legal Insights
Plain-language guides and case briefs on Philippine law — researched from the firm's law library of 184,000+ statutes, Supreme Court decisions, and agency issuances, and written so non-lawyers can understand and act on them.
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Bad Faith Dismissals: PBAC Members Liable for Irregular Government Procurement
A provincial legal officer's dismissal for grave misconduct shows how PBAC members face liability for bad faith in government procurement.
Treachery and Self-Defense in Philippine Murder Cases: Key Insights from a Supreme Court Ruling
A Supreme Court ruling clarifies when treachery applies in murder cases, how self-defense claims are weighed, and the limits of conspiracy liability.
Vicarious Liability and Common Carrier Duties: The Mendoza Case Explained
Learn how the Mendoza ruling clarifies employer liability for employee negligence and the obligations of common carriers in the Philippines.
Administrative Liability and the Limits of Official Duties in Public Service
A Supreme Court ruling on dishonesty shows how receiving benefits during suspension violates public trust and administrative rules.
Constructive Dismissal for Sexual Harassment: Employer Liability Under Philippine Law
When an employer's inaction on a sexual harassment complaint forces an employee to resign, it may be constructive dismissal. Learn the rules.
Directors' Liability for SSS Contributions: When Courts May Deny Withdrawal of Information
Explore the Supreme Court ruling on directors' liability for unpaid SSS contributions and the trial court's discretion in criminal cases.
Employment Bonds and POEA-Approved Contracts: Key Lessons from a Recent Supreme Court Ruling
The Supreme Court clarifies when employment addenda are void, when resignation is involuntary, and who bears solidary liability for overseas workers' claims.
Liability for Dishonored Bank Drafts: Holder in Due Course vs Drawer's Obligations
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies a bank drawer's liability on dishonored bank drafts, even after a stop payment order, when held by a holder in due course.
Holder in Due Course Rights Prevail Over Stop Payment Orders
Philippine Supreme Court rules a holder in due course can enforce bank drafts despite stop payment orders, explaining drawer liability under the Negotiable Instruments Law.
Accountants Liability Scope Of Responsibility In Disallowed Government Transactions
Supreme Court clarifies when government accountants may be excused from solidary liability for disallowed payments under COA rules.
Surety Agreements and Solidary Liability: Lessons from a Philippine Loan Dispute
A Supreme Court ruling clarifies when sureties become liable for corporate loans and why economic crises do not excuse payment.
Official Negligence vs Malice: Delineating Liability in Public Document Falsification
Supreme Court clarifies when a public officer's negligence in signing documents amounts to gross neglect, not falsification, in Santidad case.
When Bad Faith in a Franchise Sale Triggers Damages: Arcinue v. Baun
A franchise sold without the franchisor's approval can lead to damages liability. The Supreme Court explains the rules on bad faith, survival of actions, and interest.
Government Procurement and Financial Accountability: Lessons from the Talisay City COA Disallowance Case
The Supreme Court upheld COA disallowances against Talisay City officials for procurement violations, clarifying rules on competitive bidding, budget realignment, and personal liability.
Loan Assignment vs Guaranty: Bank Liability for Assigned Loan Proceeds
When is a bank liable for assigned loan proceeds? The Supreme Court clarifies the difference between assignment and guaranty.
Liability in Government Contracts: Mere Initialing Not Enough
When can government officers be held personally liable for disallowed payments? The Supreme Court clarifies in this COA case.
Sheriffs Must Follow Procedure in Writ Execution or Face Administrative Liability
A sheriff's duty in executing a writ is ministerial but must strictly follow procedural rules, including notice periods, or face administrative sanctions.
Forged Signatures and Bank Liability: Upholding Due Diligence in Loan Transactions
When a bank honors a forged check, it bears the loss. The Supreme Court explains why in PNB v. Giron-Roque.
Accountability in Kidnapping: Conspiracy and Accessory Liability in Heinous Crimes
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies conspiracy and accessory liability in kidnapping and heinous crimes, emphasizing accountability for all participants.
B.P. 22 and the Corporate Veil: When Corporate Officers Face Personal Liability
The Supreme Court pierces the corporate veil in B.P. 22 cases, holding officers personally liable for bouncing checks—but only with proper notice of dishonor.
Availability VS Responsibility When Certifying Funds Doesnt Mean Liability
Diminished Liability When Forewarning Reduces Murder TO Homicide
Philippine Supreme Court rules that a victim forewarned of danger negates treachery, reducing murder to homicide.
Mamasapano Tragedy: Determining Liability in Complex Military Operations
The Supreme Court clarifies the standards for determining criminal negligence and probable cause in the Mamasapano tragedy, addressing command responsibility and intervening causes.
Emergency Procurement vs Graft: When Urgency Excuses Protocol
The Supreme Court clarifies when negotiated procurement during calamities is justified and how it affects criminal liability for graft charges.