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 Validity: Banks Can Foreclose Despite Disputed Loan Agreements
Supreme Court ruling on when banks may foreclose despite disputed interest rates, and the legal interest that applies after default.
COA Primary Jurisdiction Over Money Claims Against LGUs: The Province of Aklan Case
The Supreme Court clarifies that money claims against local government units must first be filed with the Commission on Audit, not the regular courts.
Tenancy Rights vs Ejectment: Landowner Obligations in Philippine Property Law
Understand the 2013 Mirallosa ruling on unlawful detainer, landowner rights, and good faith builders in Philippine property disputes.
Sheriffs Duty Strict Compliance With Rules ON Handling Funds IN Executing Court Writs
Sheriffs must strictly follow rules on handling funds in executing court writs; failure to do so constitutes misconduct.
Elections and Financial Regulations: Analyzing the Limits of Comelec's Authority
The Supreme Court dismissed a challenge to Comelec's money ban resolution as moot, leaving key constitutional questions unanswered.
Proving the Victim's Age in Statutory Rape Cases: Lessons from People v. Hilarion
The Supreme Court clarifies how the prosecution must prove a rape victim's age, and why the failure to do so downgrades statutory rape to simple rape.
Real Property Tax on Franchise Holders: When Tax Exemptions Apply
Supreme Court rules on real property tax exemptions for franchise holders, explaining what "exclusive of this franchise" means under RA 7678.
Right to Silence in Custodial Investigations: What People v. Guillen Means for Accused Persons
The Supreme Court clarifies that silence during custodial investigation cannot be used as implied admission of guilt against an accused.
Right to Remain Silent Prevails: Silence at Custodial Investigation Not an Admission of Guilt
Supreme Court rules silence during custodial investigation cannot be used as implied admission of guilt in rape case.
Common Carriers vs Arrastre Operators: Who Bears Liability for Cargo Damage?
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when a common carrier's custody of cargo ends and an arrastre operator's begins, and when customs brokers become common carriers.
Onerous Donations Contract Law vs Gratuitous Intent in Property Transfers
When a donation carries a burden, contract rules apply. Learn how Philippine law treats onerous donations and revocation for ingratitude.
GSIS Funds and Contractual Obligations: When State Policy Yields to Private Rights
The Supreme Court clarifies when GSIS funds may be garnished and when execution pending appeal is proper.
Burden of Proof in Loan Obligations: Notice of Loss in Chattel Mortgage Agreements
When a mortgaged vehicle is stolen, borrowers must prove they notified the bank. Learn the burden of proof rules from a Supreme Court ruling.
Jurisdiction in Property Disputes: Nullifying Contracts vs. Recovering Land Rights
When can the government nullify land titles? The Supreme Court clarifies jurisdiction rules in property disputes involving military reservations.
Retention Rights Under Agrarian Reform: Limits for Landowners With Other Agricultural Holdings
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when landowners with other agricultural lands lose retention rights over tenanted rice lands under LOI 474.
Attorney Suspended for Neglect of Duty and Disregard of IBP Orders
A lawyer who neglects a client's appeal and ignores IBP directives faces a one-year suspension, reminding attorneys of their duties.
Hearsay on Trial: Proving Misconduct in Philippine Administrative Law
A look at Far Eastern Surety v. People, on bail bond liability, forgery claims, and the proper mode of appeal under Rule 45.
Procedural Pitfalls: Why Choosing the Right Appeal Matters in Surety Bond Disputes
GSIS v. Prudential Guarantee shows how procedural missteps in appeals and execution pending appeal can shape the outcome of surety bond disputes.
Forged Documents and Good Faith: Protecting Land Ownership in the Philippines
When forged deeds meet buyers' good faith, Philippine courts weigh title protection against prudence. Learn the rules from a recent Supreme Court ruling.
When Public Funds Meet Private Entities: The Boundaries of the Anti-Graft Law
The Supreme Court clarifies when government financial assistance to private organizations may or may not violate Section 3(e) of the Anti-Graft Law.
Finality of Ombudsman Decisions and the Correct Remedy for Complainants
Learn when Ombudsman rulings are final and unappealable, and how complainants can still seek review via certiorari under Rule 65.
Ending Pork: Supreme Court Defines Limits on Congressional Power Over Budget
The Supreme Court struck down PDAF as unconstitutional, redefining the limits of congressional power over the national budget.
Lawyer Suspended for Neglecting Client’s Case and Defying Court Orders
A lawyer’s duty of diligence and obedience to court orders, explained through a Supreme Court ruling suspending Atty. Reni M. Dublin for six months.
Oral Partition of Inheritance: How Heirs' Rights Prevail in Property Disputes
Learn how the Supreme Court protects heirs' rights in oral partition agreements and what this means for property disputes among family members.