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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Trademark Infringement and Probable Cause: When the Secretary of Justice Abuses Discretion
The Supreme Court clarifies when courts may override the Secretary of Justice's dismissal of trademark infringement complaints for grave abuse of discretion.
Agrarian Reform and Jurisdictional Boundaries: Understanding DARAB's Role in CLOA Cancellation
The Supreme Court clarifies when DARAB can cancel CLOAs and when the DAR Secretary holds jurisdiction, in Union Bank v. DAR officers.
Chain of Custody Safeguarding Drug Evidence and Ensuring Due Process in Anti-Drug Operations
Philippine Supreme Court acquits drug suspect over broken chain of custody, reinforcing Section 21 RA 9165 safeguards.
Neglect of Duty: Reliance on Subordinates Does Not Excuse Lack of Due Diligence
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on managerial employees, loss of trust and confidence, and dismissal for breach of security protocols.
Seafarer Disability Claims: Following POEA-SEC Procedures for a Valid Assessment
The Supreme Court clarifies when a seafarer's disability claim fails: premature filing and skipping the mandatory third-doctor referral under the POEA-SEC.
Chain of Custody Breaks Lead to Acquittal in Drug Case: People v. Ismael
Supreme Court acquits drug suspect where police failed to mark seized shabu immediately and observe Section 21 safeguards.
Chain of Custody Safeguarding Drug Evidence Integrity in Philippine Law
Philippine Supreme Court acquits drug suspect over broken chain of custody, underscoring strict Section 21 RA 9165 compliance.
Acquittal in Rape Case: The Crucial Role of Force, Threat or Intimidation
The Supreme Court acquitted a rape accused because the prosecution failed to prove force, threat, or intimidation, a required element of rape.
Reasonable Doubt Prevails: Acquittal in Carnapping With Homicide Case Due to Insufficient Evidence
Supreme Court acquits accused in carnapping with homicide case, ruling that prosecution evidence failed to prove guilt beyond reasonable doubt.
Notarial Negligence: Lawyers Must Secure Seals and Prevent Unauthorized Use of Notarial Books
A notary's duty extends beyond signing documents—securing seals and books is essential to avoid gross negligence liability.
Burden of Proof in Firearm-Related Murder: Establishing Guilt Beyond Reasonable Doubt
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on proving unlicensed firearm use in murder cases and the prosecution's burden of proof.
Safeguarding Rights: Strict Adherence to the Chain of Custody in Drug Cases
In People v. Jaafar, the Supreme Court acquitted an accused after police failed to follow the mandatory chain of custody rules under Section 21 of RA 9165.
Security of Tenure for OFWs: Why Illegal Dismissal and Void Contracts Matter
A Supreme Court ruling affirms that overseas Filipino workers enjoy security of tenure, and contracts violating this right are void.
Upholding Management Prerogative Employee Transfers AND Constructive Dismissal IN THE Philippines
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when employee transfers and probationary dismissals violate security of tenure and due process.
Illegal Dismissal and Corporate Liability: The People's Security, Inc. Case
Supreme Court clarifies illegal dismissal rules, abandonment defense, and when corporate officers may be held personally liable.
Chain of Custody in Drug Cases: When Substantial Compliance Is Enough for Conviction
The Supreme Court explains when substantial compliance with Section 21, RA 9165 chain of custody rules still supports a drug conviction.
SEC Cease and Desist Orders and Investment Contracts: A Supreme Court Primer
The Supreme Court clarifies that SEC cease and desist orders are interlocutory, not appealable, and that the SEC has primary jurisdiction over investment contract questions.
Cease and Desist Orders Secs Authority and the Limits of Judicial Intervention
The Supreme Court clarifies when an appeal from a trial court's dismissal order involves questions of fact, not just law.
Falsification of Public Documents: When Reasonable Doubt Leads to Acquittal
A mayor was acquitted of falsifying marriage certificates when the prosecution failed to prove beyond reasonable doubt that he did not solemnize the weddings.
Seafarers Disability Claims: Strict Adherence to POEA Contract Procedures Required
SC ruling in Calimlim v. Wallem Maritime: seafarers must follow POEA-SEC procedures, including third-doctor referral, or company physician's assessment stands.
Upholding Drug Conviction: Chain of Custody and Witness Credibility in Buy-Bust Operations
Supreme Court affirms drug sale and possession conviction, explaining when lapses in Section 21 chain of custody rules are not fatal.
Upholding Conviction Despite Procedural Lapses: Chain of Custody Preserves Drug Evidence
The Supreme Court affirms a drug conviction despite Section 21 lapses, ruling that an unbroken chain of custody preserves the integrity of seized evidence.
Striking a Balance When Justice Outweighs Procedural Technicalities in Criminal Appeals
The Supreme Court acquits a drug suspect when police breaches of Section 21, RA 9165 compromise the integrity of seized evidence.
When Police Lapses in Drug Cases Lead to Acquittal: The Gamboa Case
The Supreme Court acquits a drug suspect because police failed to follow Section 21, RA 9165. Learn the rules and practical lessons.