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.
Get a cited, plain-language answer from 184,000+ statutes and decisions — free, no sign-up.
Publication Requirement for Enforceability of NEA Regulations
The Supreme Court ruled on the publication requirement for NEA regulations to be enforceable, clarifying the doctrine of prior publication.
Mandatory Retirement Age for Water District Employees: The Bayona Case
The Supreme Court affirms that water district employees must retire at 65, not 60, and that forced early retirement entitles them to back salaries.
Upholding Labor Standards THE Secretary OF Labors Enforcement Powers AND Employee Rights TO Monetary Claims
Piercing the Corporate Veil: Name Change vs. Corporate Identity in Insurance Claim Execution
When can a judgment be enforced against a corporation that merely shares a name with the judgment debtor? The Supreme Court clarifies the distinction between a name change and corporate identity.
Land Dispute Resolution Supreme Court Upholds COSLAP Authority and Emphasizes Judicial Hierarchy
The Supreme Court reinforces the doctrine of judicial hierarchy and res judicata in land disputes involving COSLAP, dismissing a direct petition for certiorari.
Upholding Ethical Standards Extramarital Affairs AND THE Judiciarys Integrity
Explore how the Supreme Court reinforces judicial ethics, holding court personnel accountable for procedural lapses and safeguarding public trust.
Force and Intimidation in Rape Cases: The Victim's Perspective Under the Anti-Rape Law
Examining how courts assess force and intimidation in rape cases through the victim's perspective, as illustrated in People v. Soriano.
Voluntary Resignation vs Constructive Dismissal: What Philippine Employees Must Prove
When is a resignation forced? The Supreme Court clarifies the burden of proof in constructive dismissal cases under Philippine labor law.
People v. Abulon: Penetration, Consent, and Rape by Sexual Assault in the Family Home
A 2007 Supreme Court ruling on incestuous rape clarifies when tongue insertion counts as rape, when it is acts of lasciviousness, and how a father's moral sway replaces force.
Voluntary Resignation vs Illegal Dismissal: What the Supreme Court Said
When is a resignation voluntary and not forced? The Supreme Court explains the difference in Globe Telecom v. Crisologo.
Incestuous Rape: How a Parent's Moral Influence Can Substitute for Force
The Supreme Court explains how a father's moral ascendancy over his child can replace force or intimidation in incestuous rape cases.
Ombudsman's Power to Discipline: Not Merely Recommendatory Under Philippine Law
The Supreme Court clarifies that the Ombudsman's disciplinary authority over public officials is direct and enforceable, not merely recommendatory.
Rape Conviction Affirmed: Force, Not Consent, Decides Gang Rape Case
Supreme Court affirms gang rape convictions, ruling that force was present despite defense claims of consent and victim's reputation.
Rape AND THE Element OF Force Examining THE Totality OF Circumstances IN Philippine LAW
Unauthorized Real Estate Mortgage: Strict Interpretation of Special Power of Attorney
When a special power of attorney fails to identify the exact property, a mortgage over it is unenforceable. The Supreme Court explains why banks must verify authority.
Sheriffs Authority Limits On Enforcing Barangay Settlements
When can sheriffs enforce a barangay amicable settlement? The Supreme Court clarifies the limits of sheriff authority in Solway v. Pascasio.
Publication Requirement for Tax Ordinances: A Prerequisite to Enforceability
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies that publication of local tax ordinances is a condition precedent to their enforceability and collection.
Compromise Judgments Are Final: Courts Cannot Alter Agreed Terms But Must Ensure Clarity for Enforcement
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on compromise judgments: courts cannot alter agreed terms, but vague provisions invite disputes and enforcement problems.
Upholding Contractual Obligations: Enforceability of Sales Invoices Despite Claims of Discrepancies
Supreme Court affirms that signed sales invoices are binding evidence of delivery and payment obligations, even when a buyer later claims short deliveries.
Rape Conviction Based on Credible Testimony: Lessons from People v. Dadulla
The Supreme Court affirms a rape conviction based on credible victim testimony, clarifying force, intimidation, and damages rules.
Local Government Authority and Ordinance Enforcement: A Guide for Businesses
Learn how the Supreme Court affirmed a city mayor's duty to enforce local ordinances, and what this means for businesses operating under reclassified zones.
Non-Compete Clauses in Philippine Employment: When Post-Employment Restrictions Are Valid
The Supreme Court explains when non-compete clauses in employment contracts are valid and enforceable under Philippine law.
Motion to Dismiss Denied: Why Courts Must Adhere to Procedural Rules in Philippine Litigation
Learn why the Supreme Court strictly enforces the 15-day appeal period under Rule 41, and what happens when a motion for extension is filed.
Reopening Criminal Cases in the Philippines: The Hearing Requirement Under Rule 119
When can a Philippine court reopen a criminal case before judgment? The rules require a hearing—and the Supreme Court has enforced that requirement.