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.
Land Registration Philippines Applicant Withdraws Oppositors Rights Preserved
When a land registration applicant withdraws, oppositors with adverse claims may still present evidence and seek affirmative relief under Section 37, Act No. 496.
Priority in Land Titles: Why Earlier Registration Wins in Philippine Property Disputes
When two titles cover the same land, the earlier registration generally prevails. Learn the rule and how to protect your property.
When Can the LRA Refuse to Issue a Decree of Registration? Mandamus Limits Explained
The Supreme Court explains when the Land Registration Authority may validly refuse to issue a decree of registration and why mandamus cannot compel it.
Legitimacy of Labor Unions: When a Photocopy of Registration Is Enough
A photocopy of a union's certificate of registration may suffice to prove legitimacy in certification election petitions. Learn the rule.
Land Registration in the Philippines: Why Newspaper Publication Is Mandatory
Why newspaper publication is a mandatory requirement in Philippine land registration, and how failing to comply can invalidate your application.
Union Registration Fraud and Misrepresentation: Lessons from Pizza Hut Case
Philippine Supreme Court rules on fraud in union registration and certification election rights under the Labor Code.
Conjugal Property vs Separate Property: Protecting Your Assets in the Philippines
Learn how Philippine courts distinguish conjugal from separate property, and why registration alone does not prove ownership during marriage.
Spanish Land Titles in the Philippines: P.D. 892 and Why They No Longer Prove Ownership
Spanish-era land titles lost their force under P.D. 892. Learn the registration deadline, the San Pedro ruling, and what evidence now counts.
When Does a Local Union Have the Right to Bargain? A Look at San Miguel Foods v. Laguesma
A local union need not secure its own registration certificate to be legitimate. Learn the rules from San Miguel Foods v. Laguesma.
Res Judicata in Land Cases: When a Prior Denial Does Not Bar a New Claim
Philippine Supreme Court explains when a prior land registration denial bars a new claim, and when changed legal bases allow a fresh application.
Res Judicata in Land Registration: Ramirez v. Court of Appeals Explained
When does a final denial of a land registration application bar a later one? The Supreme Court clarifies res judicata in Ramirez v. Court of Appeals.
Due Process Rights in Labor Organization Registration: A Philippine Jurisprudence
Explore how the Supreme Court protected due process rights in canceling a labor federation's registration, emphasizing the right to be heard.
When Can the BOI Amend a Company's Registration? A Look at First Lepanto Ceramics
The Supreme Court clarifies the BOI's discretion to amend a registered enterprise's product line, even amid pending violation cases.
Simulated Contracts and Deeds of Sale: What Philippine Law Requires for Valid Transfer of Title
Philippine law on deeds of sale explained: why registration matters, what makes a sale valid, and the risks of simulated contracts.