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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Conditional Contracts to Sell: When Buyers' Payment Hinges on Sellers' Prior Mortgage Release
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies that in a contract to sell, buyers need not pay until sellers secure mortgage release, and rescission under Article 1191 does not apply.
Substantial Compliance in Procedure and Jurisdiction Shifts in Intra-Corporate Disputes
Explaining Suzuki v. De Guzman on procedural rules, substantial compliance, and the transfer of intra-corporate jurisdiction from SEC to RTCs.
SEC Cease and Desist Orders: When Regulatory Action Violates Due Process
The Supreme Court ruled the SEC acted with grave abuse of discretion by issuing a cease and desist order without proper investigation.
Sailing in Troubled Waters: The High Cost of Misrepresentation in Philippine Vessel Registration
A look at how the Supreme Court ruled on SEC's cease and desist powers and the dangers of corporate misrepresentation.
Prosecutorial Discretion vs Judicial Review: Navigating Anti-Graft Cases in the Philippines
The Supreme Court clarifies when courts may interfere with the Ombudsman's power to investigate and prosecute anti-graft cases.
Private Complainants May File Certiorari in Criminal Cases: Rodriguez v. Gadiane
When can a private complainant in a criminal case file certiorari without the prosecutor's conformity? The Supreme Court explains in Rodriguez v. Gadiane.
Second Chances in Law: Lifting Suspension and Releasing Leave Credits After Misconduct
The Supreme Court lifts a dismissed lawyer's suspension and orders release of leave credits, but keeps the ban on government re-employment.
Dismissal of Appeals: Why Following Court Rules Matters
Learn why the Supreme Court dismissed a petition for review from the Secretary of Justice's resolution, and the importance of following proper court procedures.
Fixed-Term vs Regular Employment: Know Your Rights in the Philippines
The Supreme Court explains when fixed-term employment contracts are valid and when they violate the security of tenure of regular employees.
Dismissal of Case for Absence at Pre-Trial: When It's Not Negligence
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when a plaintiff's absence at pre-trial does not justify dismissal of the case for failure to prosecute.
Res Judicata and Forum Shopping: When a Prior Ruling Bars a Second Case
Philippine Supreme Court explains when a prior ruling bars another case, and what constitutes forum shopping.
Dismissal for Failure to Prosecute: When Procedural Lapses Cost the Case
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies dismissal for failure to prosecute, final orders, appeal remedies, and the mandatory 15-day period for motions for reconsideration.
Publication Requirement for Local Tax Ordinances: Manila Revenue Code Void
Supreme Court affirms that a local tax ordinance published only once, not for three consecutive days, is null and void.
Burden of Proof in Bank Overdraft Claims: Security Bank v. Gan
Banks must prove overdraft claims with competent evidence; ledger entries alone are insufficient when the entrant lacks personal knowledge.
Emancipation Patent as Proof of Land Ownership Security for Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries
Explains how an emancipation patent conclusively vests absolute ownership in farmer-beneficiaries, protecting them from eviction and landowner claims.
Valid Service of Summons on Corporate Secretary: Lessons from Millex v. Citystate
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when service of summons on a corporate secretary is valid and why belated objections fail.
Reasonable Doubt Prevails: Acquittal in Homicide Case on Circumstantial Evidence and Witness Credibility
Supreme Court acquits homicide accused where prosecution evidence fails the test of moral certainty, citing witness coaching and non-flight.
Security of Tenure and Board Membership: Garayblas v. Atienza on Illegal Ouster
When does a board member's ouster become a justiciable case? The Supreme Court clarifies the distinction between termination of appointment and illegal removal.
Upholding Corporate Governance: The Limits of SEC Intervention in Church Disputes
When can courts reorganize a management committee created by the SEC? The Supreme Court clarifies the limits of regulatory intervention in corporate disputes.
Probable Cause and Abuse of Discretion: Navigating DOJ Decisions in the Philippines
When can courts overturn a DOJ Secretary's ruling on probable cause? Learn the high bar of grave abuse of discretion.
Interest on Interest in Philippine Mortgages: The Cuyco Case Explained
The Supreme Court explains when unpaid interest earns further interest in mortgage foreclosures, and when future loans need not be secured.
Project vs Regular Employees: Security of Tenure in Philippine Construction
When do construction workers become regular employees? The Supreme Court explains the rules on project employment and security of tenure.
Regular vs Project Employees: Understanding Security of Tenure in Philippine Labor Law
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies the test for regular vs project employee status, security of tenure, and the two-notice rule in illegal dismissal cases.
Conflict of Interest and Private Practice: Lessons from Lim-Santiago v. Sagucio
A disbarment case clarifies when a lawyer's past ties create a conflict and why government prosecutors cannot practice privately.