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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Regular vs Project Employment: Security of Tenure in Service Contracts
When does a worker become regular despite project-based contracts? The Supreme Court clarifies the rules on security of tenure.
Freedom of Speech vs Fair Elections: Balancing Airtime Limits in Political Ads
Supreme Court ruling on COMELEC's aggregate airtime limits for political ads, balancing free speech and fair elections.
Dismissal of Administrative Charges Against Judge Madrona: Errors in Judicial Functions Are Not Grounds for Di
The Supreme Court dismissed administrative charges against Judge Madrona, ruling that errors in judicial functions are correctible through appeal, not discipline.
Grade Tampering as Serious Misconduct: Lessons from the Letran Teacher Dismissal Case
When a teacher altered student grades, the Supreme Court ruled it was serious misconduct justifying dismissal under the Labor Code.
Divorce Recognition in the Philippines: What Ando v. DFA Means for Remarriage and Passport Issuance
The Supreme Court clarifies when a foreign divorce is recognized in the Philippines and what a Filipino spouse must prove before remarrying.
Tax Exemption and Franchise Rights: Philippine Airlines' Victory on Excise Taxes
The Supreme Court affirms PAL's excise tax exemption on commissary imports under PD 1590, explaining franchise tax rules.
Good Faith and Land Titles: When Forged Deeds Void Property Ownership
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on forged deeds, good faith buyers, and why Torrens titles from fraudulent sales can be cancelled.
Voting Rights of Sequestered Shares: Balancing Government Oversight and Corporate Governance
The Supreme Court clarifies the voting rights of sequestered shares under the Presidential Commission on Good Government's oversight.
Protecting the Vulnerable: Conviction Upheld in Statutory Rape Case Involving a Minor and Her Mother's Partner
Supreme Court affirms rape conviction, rejects sweetheart defense, and increases damages awarded to minor victim.
The Weight of Silence: Accomplice Liability in Kidnapping for Ransom
When does silence and serving food make someone an accomplice to kidnapping for ransom? The Supreme Court explains.
Ownership in Reclamation Projects: Defining Completion and Compensation
Supreme Court clarifies when ownership of improvements transfers in reclamation contracts, ruling on COA disallowance and compensation rights.
Rape and Consent: How the Sweetheart Defense Fails Against Proof Beyond Reasonable Doubt
Philippine Supreme Court explains why the sweetheart defense cannot defeat a rape conviction when the victim's testimony proves force and intimidation.
Kidnapping for Ransom: Supreme Court Affirms Conviction and Apportions Liability Between Principal and Accompl
The Supreme Court clarifies the line between principal and accomplice in kidnapping for ransom, and how damages are shared.
Due Process Rights in JBC Proceedings: Ensuring Fairness in Judicial Appointments
The Supreme Court's 2014 ruling in Jardeleza v. Sereno clarifies due process and the integrity challenge rule in Judicial and Bar Council nomination proceedings.
Breach of Public Trust: Dismissal for Misappropriation of Court Funds
Supreme Court affirms dismissal of clerk of court who used judiciary funds for personal expenses, underscoring public trust.
Buy-Bust Operations: Proving Illegal Drug Sale Beyond Reasonable Doubt
How the Supreme Court upholds drug sale convictions when buy-bust operations are properly conducted and credible witnesses testify.
Upholding Procedural Rules: The Necessity of Complete Documentation in Appeals
The Supreme Court reminds litigants that appeals demand strict compliance with documentation rules under Rule 42.
Strict Rule 42 Compliance Required: The Magsino Case on Petition for Review Dismissals
Philippine Supreme Court affirms dismissal of petition for review for failure to attach required pleadings under Rule 42, clarifying rules on appeal.
Forcible Entry Appeals: Why Attaching the Right Pleadings Matters
Learn why the Supreme Court upheld dismissal of a forcible entry appeal for missing pleadings under Rule 42.
Forged Signatures and Good Faith in Philippine Land Ownership
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on forged deeds, buyer good faith, and protecting land ownership rights.
Prescription Periods in Illegal Dismissal Cases: Clarifying the Statute of Limitations
The Supreme Court clarifies that illegal dismissal claims prescribe in four years, not three, distinguishing backwages from ordinary money claims.
Surety Bond Liability Survives Minor Contract Changes, High Court Rules
Supreme Court clarifies when contract modifications release a surety from liability—and when they do not.
Estate Sales and Court Authority: When Approved Transactions Stand Despite Later Disputes
The Supreme Court explains when court-approved estate sales remain valid despite later disputes over administrator appointments and injunctions.
Usurious Interest and Foreclosure: When Unconscionable Loan Terms Void a Foreclosure Sale
A Supreme Court ruling on how excessive interest rates can invalidate a foreclosure sale, and what borrowers and lenders must know.