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.
When Words Wound Understanding Damages FOR Baseless Lawsuits IN THE Philippines
Learn how Philippine courts award damages for baseless lawsuits, what must be proven, and practical tips to protect your rights.
Habeas Corpus Jurisdiction Limits and Judicial Accountability in the Philippines
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies that habeas corpus writs are enforceable only within a judge's judicial district, and explains judicial accountability standards.
Judicial Ethics: Dismissal of Judge for Sexual Harassment and Conduct Unbecoming
Supreme Court dismisses judge for sexual harassment, harassment of employees, and improper dealings with a litigant before his sala.
When Does Withholding Tax Obligation Arise? Filipinas Synthetic Fiber Corp. v. CA
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when the duty to withhold tax on payments to foreign corporations arises—at accrual or payment.
Enforcing Foreign Judgments in the Philippines: Lessons from Oil and Natural Gas Commission v. Pacific Cement
A Philippine Supreme Court case clarifies when foreign judgments are enforceable and how courts interpret arbitration clauses in commercial contracts.
Truth and Honesty in Legal Practice: Why Misleading the Court Can Lead to Suspension
A lawyer's false statement in a motion for postponement led to a six-month suspension. Learn the ethical rules on candor.
Witness Credibility in Philippine Courts: Why Family Ties Don't Discredit Testimony
Philippine courts weigh witness credibility by quality, not family ties. A landmark case clarifies evidence rules, paraffin tests, and damages.
Conspiracy and Mastermind Liability in Philippine Murder Cases: The Sanchez Doctrine
How Philippine courts hold crime masterminds liable for murder through conspiracy, even when they never appear at the crime scene.
The Weight of Witness Testimony: Treachery and Identification in Philippine Murder Cases
How a lone eyewitness's positive identification and the suddenness of attack led to a murder conviction qualified by treachery.
Deadfreight and Demurrage in Charter Parties: NFA v. Hongfil Shipping
Supreme Court clarifies when charterers owe deadfreight but not demurrage, and when corporate officers escape personal liability.
Pillbox Possession in the Philippines: Understanding Illegal Explosives and the Law
The Supreme Court explains what makes a — a homemade explosive device. The case is a practical guide for understanding how courts evaluate explosive devices, the importance of chain of custody in crim
Legal Compensation of Debts in the Philippines: When Can You Offset Dues?
Learn when Philippine law allows compensation or set-off of debts, and why unliquidated claims cannot offset condominium dues.
Date Discrepancies in Rape Cases: Substance Over Technicality in Philippine Law
Philippine courts uphold rape convictions despite date discrepancies in the information, prioritizing substantive justice over technical defects.
Article 125 and the Proper Judicial Authority: Filing Before the MTC Stops the Detention Clock
Filing a complaint with the MTC counts as delivering a detainee to the proper judicial authority under Article 125, even without trial jurisdiction.
Moral Damages for Unfounded Lawsuits in the Philippines: What the Law Says
Winning a baseless lawsuit does not automatically entitle you to moral damages. Learn the rules from Expertravel v. CA.
Intent Is Key: Understanding Kidnapping Laws in the Philippines and Deprivation of Liberty
Learn how Philippine courts determine intent in kidnapping cases, based on a Supreme Court ruling on a child abduction case.
When Circumstantial Evidence Speaks Volumes: Understanding Homicide Convictions in the Philippines
The Supreme Court explains how circumstantial evidence can prove homicide beyond reasonable doubt, and why dwelling aggravates the penalty.
Valid Confession in Philippine Law: When Your Words Can Be Used Against You
Learn when a confession is valid and admissible in Philippine courts, and how constitutional rights during custodial investigation protect accused persons.
Valid Search Warrants in the Philippines: Probable Cause and Specificity
Philippine law requires probable cause and particular description for valid search warrants. Kho v. Makalintal clarifies how specific these must be.
Separation Pay in the Philippines: When Are Allowances Included?
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on when monthly allowances form part of the salary base for computing separation pay under the Labor Code.
Child Testimony in Rape Cases: Supreme Court Upholds Victim-Centric Approach
The Supreme Court affirms a rape conviction based on a child's credible testimony, clarifying that an intact hymen does not negate rape.
Force and Intimidation in Philippine Rape Cases: Lessons from People vs. Alquizalas
How Philippine courts define force and intimidation in rape cases, and why victim resistance is not required to prove the crime.
Unfounded Misconduct Claims: Protecting Public Servants From False Accusations
Learn how Philippine jurisprudence protects employees from baseless misconduct allegations and requires employers to prove just cause for dismissal.
Legal Interest Rates in the Philippines: When Does 6% vs 12% Apply
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when 6% or 12% legal interest applies—loans and forbearance versus other obligations. Learn the rules.