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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When Silence Isn't Golden: Novation and Debtor Substitution in Philippine Law
The Supreme Court clarifies when a creditor's silence or acceptance of payments amounts to novation and debtor substitution.
Drawing the Line When Gun Display Becomes Direct Assault on Traffic Enforcers
Supreme Court clarifies when pointing a gun at a traffic enforcer constitutes direct assault, not mere resistance, under Philippine law.
Reviving Judgments Balancing Timeliness AND Justice IN Philippine LAW
The Supreme Court acquits a PPA official in an anti-graft case, clarifying the elements of Section 3(e) of RA 3019.
Child Abuse and Sexual Assault: Understanding Philippine Law and Protecting Children
The Supreme Court clarifies how Philippine law punishes child abuse and sexual assault, including key rules on evidence and penalties.
When Does a Company Bonus Become a Demandable Right in the Philippines?
Learn when a company bonus becomes a demandable right under Philippine law, based on the Supreme Court's ruling in Maternal vs. Coca-Cola Bottlers.
When Alibi and Denial Cannot Overturn Positive Identification: A Philippine Law Perspective
Philippine Supreme Court explains when alibi and denial fail against positive identification, with rules on treachery and stop and frisk.
Combating Human Trafficking: Elements and Penalties Under Philippine Law
The Supreme Court clarifies the elements of trafficking in persons under RA 9208, as amended, and the penalties for violators.
Bribery: The Line Between Facilitation and Conspiracy in Public Office
Supreme Court clarifies when mere presence at a bribe transaction amounts to conspiracy in direct bribery cases under Philippine law.
Upholding Client Trust: Attorney Suspended for Neglecting Case Updates in the Philippines
A Philippine lawyer was suspended for six months for failing to inform a client of an unfavorable labor decision, highlighting duties under the Code of Professional Responsibility.
Unlawful Possession of Firearms: What You Need to Know Under Philippine Law
The Supreme Court clarifies the rules on illegal possession of firearms under RA 10591, including penalties and the effect of acquittal in related drug cases.
The Indefinite Assessment Seafarers Right To Disability Benefits Under Philippine LAW
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies seafarers' disability benefits when company doctors fail to issue timely final assessments.
Custody Chain Integrity: Safeguarding Drug Evidence in Philippine Law
How the Supreme Court in People v. Tamundi clarified the chain of custody rule and witness requirements under Section 21 of RA 9165.
Psychological Incapacity vs Marital Discord: When Annulment Fails in Philippine Law
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies that marital unhappiness and discord are not enough to nullify a marriage under Article 36 of the Family Code.
Oral Partition of Inheritance: Validity and Evidentiary Rules in Philippine Law
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when oral partition of inherited land is valid, evidentiary requirements, and homestead patent limits on implied trusts.
Oral Partition of Inheritance: Proving Verbal Agreements in Philippine Law
The Supreme Court clarifies when an oral partition of inherited property can override a written extrajudicial settlement, and what evidence is needed.
Appointment Validity and Appeal Rights: Key Insights from the Binay CSC Case
Learn who may appeal a disapproved local government appointment and how residency qualifications are judged under Philippine law.
Derivative Works and Copyright Ownership in the Philippines: The Tupaz Case
The Tupaz case clarifies Philippine law on derivative works, copyright ownership, and the idea/expression dichotomy in collaborative designs.
Proving Intimidation in Contracts: The Ortigas Land Dispute and the Burden of Proof
Philippine law presumes contracts valid. Learn how the Supreme Court requires clear evidence to prove intimidation or undue influence.
Redefining Rape Anatomical Thresholds and Victim Testimony in Philippine Law
The Supreme Court clarifies the exact anatomical threshold distinguishing attempted from consummated rape through penile penetration, and reaffirms victim testimony standards.
Family Home Exemption From Execution: What Philippine Law Requires
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies family home exemption from execution, requiring proof of actual occupancy and compliance with Family Code.
Attempted Trafficking in Persons: When Simulating a Birth and Taking Custody of a Child Leads to Conviction
The Supreme Court explains when simulating a birth and acquiring custody of a child constitutes attempted trafficking in persons under Philippine law.
Constructive Dismissal: Protecting Employees From Unjust Working Conditions
The Supreme Court explains constructive dismissal, abandonment, and when harsh working conditions amount to illegal termination under Philippine law.
Challenging Filiation: Birth Certificate Corrections and DNA Evidence in Philippine Law
Philippine Supreme Court rules filiation cannot be collaterally attacked via Rule 108 birth certificate correction petitions; DNA testing requires prima facie evidence.
Protecting Marital Property How Spousal Consent Impacts Real Estate Deals IN THE Philippines
Learn how Philippine law treats property sales without spousal consent, and why timing determines whether a deal is void or voidable.