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.
Appointment in Civil Service: The Indelible Right Despite Administrative Lapses
A valid civil service appointment takes effect immediately and remains effective until disapproved by the CSC—even if submission was delayed.
Falsification of Public Documents: Duty and Deception in Local Governance
Barangay officials convicted for falsifying a resolution under Article 171(2) of the Revised Penal Code. The Supreme Court explains why.
Dishonesty in Public Office: The Price of False Entries and Delayed Deposits
A cashier's false cashbook entry and delayed bank deposits amount to dishonesty, warranting dismissal from government service.
Crediting Government Service for Retirement: Defining the Scope of the Civil Service and Compensation
The Supreme Court clarifies which government services count for retirement benefits, distinguishing full-time civil service from part-time and non-chartered positions.
Ombudsman’s Authority to Impose Administrative Sanctions on Erring Officials
The Supreme Court affirms the Ombudsman's power to directly impose administrative penalties, not just recommend them, on erring public officials.
Official Duty vs. Discourtesy: When Public Officials Cross the Line
The Supreme Court clarifies that public officials cannot hide behind official duty to justify discourtesy, reaffirming public office as a public trust.
Mission Orders and Memorandum Receipts: When They Don't Replace a Firearms License
The Supreme Court clarifies that mission orders and memorandum receipts cannot substitute for a valid firearms license, even for confidential agents.
Suing the Government: Understanding State Immunity in the Philippines
A pharmaceutical company's bid dispute clarifies when government officials can be sued despite state immunity.
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.
Exhausting Administrative Remedies with the COA: A Prerequisite for Money Claims Against Government Agencies
Philippine Supreme Court ruling clarifies that money claims against government agencies must first be filed with the COA before going to court.
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.
Supervision vs. Control: Safeguarding Local Autonomy in the Liga ng mga Barangay
The Supreme Court clarifies the line between supervision and control over the Liga ng mga Barangay, protecting local autonomy.
Prescription Periods in Graft Cases: The Discovery Rule for Ill-Gotten Wealth
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when the prescription period for graft cases begins—from discovery, not commission, of the offense.
Presidential Appointments in the Philippines: Limits of the Commission on Appointments' Confirmation Power
The Supreme Court clarifies which presidential appointments need Commission on Appointments confirmation under the 1987 Constitution.