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.
Real Property Tax vs Franchise Exemptions: RCPI Ruling for Telecom Firms
Supreme Court clarifies that "in lieu of all taxes" franchise clauses do not exempt telecom firms from real property tax on buildings and towers.
PAGCOR Franchise Limits, Delegation, and Mootness in Constitutional Challenges
The Supreme Court clarifies PAGCOR cannot delegate its franchise, and explains when constitutional challenges become moot.
Taxing Telecommunications: Local Government Power vs. Franchise Exemptions
The Supreme Court ruled that the Local Government Code's withdrawal of tax exemptions prevails over PLDT's franchise exemption claim under R.A. 7925.
Del Mar v. PAGCOR: The Scope of PAGCOR's Franchise and Jai-Alai Operations
The Supreme Court ruled PAGCOR's franchise under P.D. 1869 does not include operating jai-alai, a gambling activity requiring express legislative grant.
PAGCOR’s Authority Unveiled: Navigating the Limits of Gambling Franchises in the Philippines
The Supreme Court rules PAGCOR’s franchise covers gambling casinos, not jai-alai. A landmark case on legislative franchises.
Broadcasting Public Service: Understanding the Government's Right to Comelec Time
The Supreme Court upheld Section 92 of the Omnibus Election Code, requiring broadcast stations to give free air time to the COMELEC during elections.
Franchise Boundaries: When NPC Can Supply Power Over Existing Franchises
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on when NPC may directly supply power within areas covered by existing electric franchise holders.
When Is a Legislative Franchise Required for Philippine Air Transport Operations
The Supreme Court clarifies when a legislative franchise is needed to operate domestic air services in the Philippines.
Navigating Telecommunications Franchises: Competition vs. Public Interest
A 1996 Supreme Court ruling on government telephone operations clarifies that franchises are not exclusive and competition serves the public interest.