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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Extrajudicial Ejectment in Philippine Leases: What the CJH v. Aniceto Ruling Means
The Supreme Court clarifies when extrajudicial ejectment clauses in lease agreements are valid and enforceable in the Philippines.
When an Implied Lease Renewal Does Not Revive a Right of First Refusal
Philippine Supreme Court explains why an implied lease renewal does not automatically revive a lessee's right of first refusal.
Implied Lease Renewals and Right of First Refusal: What Tenants Should Know
Philippine Supreme Court ruling clarifies that implied lease renewals do not revive a tenant's right of first refusal unless expressly agreed.
Understanding Jurisdictional Limits in Lease Disputes: A Guide to Security Deposits and Court Competence
The Supreme Court clarifies when lease disputes over security deposits fall under municipal trial courts versus regional trial courts.
Election Offenses: The 45-Day Ban on Releasing Public Funds for Livelihood Programs
Supreme Court clarifies the 45-day election ban on public fund releases covers LGU livelihood programs, not just DSWD projects.
Verbal Agreements vs Written Contracts: When a Lease or Workplace Transfer Can Be Modified
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on when verbal notices and transfer orders are invalid, protecting employee security of tenure.
Oral Agreements vs Written Contracts: When Verbal Lease Changes Hold Up in Court
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when verbal agreements can modify written lease contracts, and when they cannot, in Modomo v. Layug.
Court Personnel Extortion: When Demanding Money for Court Documents Is Gross Misconduct
A court interpreter who demanded money to release a litigant's document was found guilty of gross misconduct, bribery, and graft.
UP Tax Exemption: Balancing Public Benefit and Local Revenue
Supreme Court rules UP exempt from real property tax on land leased to Ayala Land under RA 9500, balancing public benefit and local revenue.
Foreign Currency Deposits and Joint Accounts: When Courts Cannot Order Withdrawal
A Supreme Court ruling explains why courts cannot order release of foreign currency deposits and when co-depositor consent is required.
Reversion of Land Jurisdiction Lies Where the Title Is Challenged, Not the Judgment Itself
When a land title is attacked as spurious, the reversion case in court bars administrative cancellation of a leasehold agreement over the same property.
Upholding Contractual Freedom: Injunctive Relief and the Limits of Exclusivity in Lottery Operations
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on when injunctive relief fails absent a clear legal right, using the PCSO-PGMC lottery lease dispute.
R.A. 10951 Penalty Adjustment: How Final Theft Convictions Can Be Modified and Inmates Released
The Supreme Court clarifies how R.A. 10951 modifies penalties in final theft convictions, remanding cases to trial courts for possible early release.
Retroactive Penalty Adjustment Under RA 10951: The Elbanbuena Guidelines
The Supreme Court explains how convicts can seek reduced sentences and possible release under RA 10951, even after final judgment.
Revoking a Surety Agreement: Proving Timely Notice and Release from Liability
A surety who sends a timely revocation letter by registered mail can escape liability—provided the notice is properly proven and received.
Preliminary Mandatory Injunction: The Clear Right Imperative in Lease Disputes
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when a preliminary mandatory injunction may issue in lease disputes, requiring a clear legal right.
Ejectment Proceedings Jurisdiction OF Courts AND Forum Shopping IN Lease Disputes
Rent Suspension and Earnest Money: Balancing Rights in Lease and Sale Agreements
The Supreme Court clarifies when lessees may suspend rent and when earnest money in a contract to sell may be forfeited.
Bank's Failure to Release Loan Funds Nullifies Foreclosure of Mortgage
Philippine Supreme Court rules a bank's breach of a credit agreement bars foreclosure, explaining borrower's reciprocal obligation to pay only arises after full release of loan proceeds.
When Verbal Termination of Lease Ends the Need for a Demand Letter in Unlawful Detainer
The Supreme Court clarifies when a demand letter is unnecessary in unlawful detainer cases, particularly involving month-to-month verbal leases.
Expiration vs Non-Payment: Demand Letter Requirements in Unlawful Detainer Cases
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when a demand letter is required before filing an unlawful detainer case, distinguishing lease expiration from non-payment.
Lease Perfection vs Performance: Hilltop Market Case on Conditions and Estoppel
When does a lease begin? The Supreme Court clarifies the difference between conditions for perfection and performance in Hilltop Market.
Breach of Notarial Duty: Upholding Integrity in Legal Practice
Explore how the Supreme Court reinforced accountability for public officers in lease and procurement irregularities.
Breach of Public Trust: Unauthorized School Lease Leads to Dismissal
Public school officials dismissed for grave misconduct after leasing school property without authority and mishandling funds. Learn the legal rules.