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.
Presumption of Illegal Fishing: What Fishermen Need to Know About Dynamite Fishing Laws in the Philippines
Learn how Philippine courts apply the presumption of illegal fishing in dynamite fishing cases, what evidence convicts, and the penalties under P.D. 704.
Navigating Agrarian Disputes: DAR's Role in Ejectment Cases Explained
Understand the Supreme Court's ruling in Caraan v. CA on the DAR's preliminary determination of tenancy and its effect on ejectment cases.
When Should a Judge Inhibit: Safeguarding Impartiality in Philippine Courts
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on when judges must voluntarily inhibit to protect judicial impartiality, explained in plain language.
Dismissal by Sandiganbayan: Proper Legal Remedy and Mootness in Philippine Courts
Learn when a Sandiganbayan dismissal is appealable via Rule 45, not certiorari, and when cases become moot.
Suspension of Payments in the Philippines: Who Can File and What Are the Limits
The Supreme Court clarifies that only corporations, partnerships, or associations—not individuals—may file for suspension of payments under PD 902-A.
Presidential Power vs Cooperative Autonomy: When Can the President Intervene
The Supreme Court limits presidential intervention in electric cooperatives, protecting cooperative autonomy and democratic governance under Philippine law.
Possession vs Intent: Understanding Illegal Firearm Charges in the Philippines
Learn how the Supreme Court ruled on double jeopardy in illegal firearm cases, and why a prosecutor's authority matters in criminal charges.
Prosecutorial Discretion vs Court Authority: Navigating Criminal Case Dismissals in the Philippines
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies the balance between prosecutorial discretion and judicial authority in dismissing criminal cases after information is filed.
The Limits of Mission Orders: When Can Civilians Carry Firearms Legally in the Philippines
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on mission orders, civilian firearm possession, and the limits of authority to issue gun permits.
SEC vs Stock Exchange: Who Decides Which Stocks Get Listed in the Philippines
Supreme Court ruling clarifies the SEC's power to review stock exchange listing decisions and the limits of that authority.
Illegal Firearm Possession: Understanding the Nuances of Philippine Law
Learn how Philippine courts decide illegal firearm possession cases, from warrantless searches to penalties under RA 8294.
Grave Oral Defamation When Does Filing A Complaint Stop The Clock
Learn when filing a complaint stops the prescriptive period for grave oral defamation under Philippine law.
Defining Piracy Under Philippine Law: Protecting Vessels and Ensuring Maritime Security
The Supreme Court clarifies what constitutes piracy under PD 532, ruling that seizing a fishing boat by force is piracy, not mere grave coercion.
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.
Succession and Labor Claims: Can Employee Claims Survive the Death of an Employer
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on whether employee money claims survive an employer's death and who bears liability.
Dynamite Fishing in the Philippines: Laws, Penalties, and the People vs. Vergara Case
Learn the Philippine law against dynamite fishing, penalties under P.D. 704, and key lessons from People vs. Vergara.
Pledge vs. Corporate By-Laws: Who Wins in Stock Ownership Disputes?
A bank's pledged shares were sold by a club for unpaid dues. The Supreme Court ruled on who prevails.
Back Taxes on Undeclared Improvements: What "Declared for the First Time" Means
The Supreme Court explains when local assessors may impose back taxes on previously undeclared building improvements under PD 464.
Navigating Illegal Recruitment: Understanding Your Rights and Risks in the Philippines
Learn how Philippine courts define illegal recruitment, the penalties for large-scale offenses, and practical tips to avoid scams.
Unlicensed Firearm Possession and Homicide: Lessons from People v. Tobias
The Supreme Court explains when a firearm is considered unlicensed, and why a belatedly obtained license cannot cure illegal possession.
Self Defense Claims in Philippine Criminal Law: When Do They Hold Up
Philippine courts require unlawful aggression, reasonable necessity, and lack of provocation for self-defense. Learn from People v. Tobias.
Exhaustion of Administrative Remedies: When Can You Skip the Line to Court?
Learn when the exhaustion rule applies, its exceptions, and why a replevin suit failed against DENR forfeiture.
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.
Possession of Illegal Timber: Navigating Philippine Forestry Laws
The Supreme Court clarifies that mere possession of timber without legal documents is a crime under the Revised Forestry Code, even if the timber came from a legal source.