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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Foreclosure Sales and Labor Claims: When Buyers Are Not Liable for a Mortgagor's Debts
The Supreme Court clarifies that a mortgagee-creditor who buys foreclosed assets does not automatically assume the mortgagor's labor liabilities.
Prosecutor's Comment on Motion for Reconsideration After Information Filed Not Misconduct
Supreme Court rules a prosecutor who files a recommendatory comment on a motion for reconsideration after arraignment does not commit conduct prejudicial to the service.
When Does the Clock Start? Prescription Periods for Hidden Contract Breaches in the Philippines
Philippine Supreme Court ruling clarifies when the prescriptive period begins for hidden breaches of contract, protecting buyers who rely on seller representations.
Misconduct and Job Security: When a Private Agreement Impacts Employment
A fishing crew dismissed for taking fish without a gate pass learns that valid cause doesn't excuse denial of due process.
Ombudsman's Authority Prevails: Challenging Jurisdiction After Participating in Proceedings
Supreme Court rules that participating in NLRC proceedings does not bar challenging jurisdiction when Civil Service Commission has exclusive authority over government employees.
Resignation vs Retirement: When Does a Public Officer Truly Leave Office
The Supreme Court explains the difference between resignation and retirement for public officers, and why acceptance matters in Reyes v. Atienza.
Implied Lease Renewal vs. Contractual Obligations: Rivera v. Roman
When does continued possession after a lease expires create an implied renewal? The Supreme Court clarifies the rules in Rivera v. Roman.
When A Small Docket FEE Deficiency Doesnt Doom AN Appeal Balancing Technicality AND Justice
Land Reclassification vs. Conversion: DAR Approval Still Required After CARL
The Supreme Court clarifies that local reclassification of agricultural land does not remove the need for DAR conversion approval under CARL.
Proving Co-Ownership in Philippine Property Disputes: The Bulawin Case
Supreme Court clarifies what evidence proves co-ownership of inherited land, and what does not, in a dispute over a Camiguin rice field.
Good Faith vs Negligence: Understanding Administrative Dishonesty in Philippine Civil Service
When does using public funds become administrative dishonesty? The Supreme Court explains good faith, negligence, and accountability for court officials.
Death Benefits for Seafarers: When the POEA Contract Does Not Apply
A seafarer's death benefits under the POEA Standard Contract require death during the contract term. Learn the limits from Hermogenes v. OSCO.
Buying All Shares Does Not Transfer Corporate Property Ownership: Silverio v. Filipino Business Consultants
Philippine Supreme Court ruling: acquiring controlling shares of a corporation does not give a stockholder ownership or possession of corporate assets.
Partnership Disputes: Absence of Formalities Does Not Negate Partnership Existence
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies that a partnership may exist without formal documents, based on the parties' intent and conduct.
Firearms Possession When Does a Gun Ban Trump Illegal Possession Charges
The Supreme Court explains when Republic Act No. 8294 bars a separate conviction for illegal possession of firearms if another crime was committed.
PLDT v. City of Bacolod: The Limits of the Most-Favored-Treatment Clause in Tax Exemptions
The Supreme Court rules that the most-favored-treatment clause in R.A. 7925 does not grant tax exemptions to telecommunications companies.
Most Favored Treatment Clause in Telecom: What PLDT v. Bacolod Means for Tax Exemptions
The Supreme Court rules that Section 23 of RA 7925 does not grant automatic tax exemptions to telecom companies. Learn what this means.
Criminal VS Civil When A Civil Court Ruling Doesnt Stop A Criminal Trial
A civil court ruling that seems to favor the accused does not automatically stop a criminal prosecution. Learn the rules on prejudicial questions, res judicata, and motion to quash.
When Floating Status Doesnt Guarantee Separation Pay: Employee Rights and Employer Obligations
Understand when floating status ends in separation pay claims. Learn the JPL Marketing ruling on 13th month pay and service incentive leave.
Jurisdictional Boundaries: Summons, Transfers, and Government Employee Reassignments
When does a court lack jurisdiction over a government official? This case clarifies summons rules and employee transfer remedies.
Corporate Identity and Loan Obligations: Name Change Does Not Excuse Debt Payment
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on whether a corporate name change or bank identity affects loan obligations and surety liability.
Accrual of Action: Demand as the Starting Point for Prescription in Debt Recovery
When does the prescriptive period for collecting a debt begin? The Supreme Court clarifies that demand, not maturity, starts the clock.
Sheriffs and Public Trust: When a Court Officer Stands By and Does Nothing
A Supreme Court ruling shows that a sheriff's silence during an irregular demolition was neglect of duty, not innocence, and that court officers must act above suspicion.
Docket Fees and Jurisdiction: When Underpayment Doesn’t Automatically Dismiss a Case
Learn when underpaid docket fees affect jurisdiction and when courts must allow correction instead of dismissing a case outright.