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.
Right of Way in the Philippines: Balancing Landowner Rights and Property Isolation
The Supreme Court explains when a compulsory easement of right of way may be granted, and why mere inconvenience does not justify imposing a burden on a neighbor's property.
Unbroken Chain: Ensuring Drug Evidence Integrity in Philippine Law
The Supreme Court clarifies when procedural lapses in drug evidence custody do not defeat a conviction under RA 9165.
Strict Rules on Foreclosure Notice Publication: What Philippine Mortgagors Should Know
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on strict compliance with foreclosure notice publication requirements and consequences of defective notices.
Adverse Possession and Land Registration: Clarifying Requirements for Imperfect Titles
Supreme Court clarifies that possession before a land's classification as alienable and disposable counts toward confirming imperfect title under Section 14(1).
Right of Way: Balancing Dominant Estate Needs and Servient Estate Rights in Philippine Law
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies how to determine the extent and indemnity for a legal easement of right of way under the Civil Code.
Defamation and Privileged Communication: Protecting Reputation in the Philippines
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies libel, privileged communication, and damages in Almendras v. Almendras, balancing free speech with reputation protection.
Chain of Custody in Drug Cases: Integrity of Evidence Prevails
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on chain of custody in drug possession cases, explaining why substantial compliance with Section 21 suffices.
Reconstitution of Torrens Titles: Strict Compliance and the Hierarchy of Courts
A petition to reconstitute a lost Torrens title must strictly follow RA 26; wrong remedy and forum doom the case.
Pre-Trial Attendance Is Key: Consequences of Absenteeism in Philippine Courts
Philippine courts require strict compliance with pre-trial rules. Learn the consequences of absence and the rules on reconstitution of titles.
Substitution in Elections: Comelec's Discretion and Due Process Rights
A look at the Supreme Court's ruling on candidate substitution, the Comelec's ministerial duty, and the due process requirements in election cases.
Upholding Ethical Standards Attorney Suspended FOR Dishonest Real Estate Dealings
Supreme Court suspends lawyer for dishonest real estate dealings, reaffirming high ethical standards for attorneys in the Philippines.
Upholding Public Safety: Supreme Court Invalidates Ordinance Permitting Oil Depots in Densely Populated Area
The Supreme Court strikes down Manila Ordinance No. 8187 for allowing oil depots to remain in densely populated Pandacan, reaffirming the primacy of public safety and health.
VAT Refund Claims: Strict Deadlines and Proper Documentation Required
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies VAT refund rules: strict 2-year filing deadlines and the necessity of official receipts for zero-rated services.
Upholding Warrantless Arrests: The Limits of Challenging Drug Possession Evidence
A Supreme Court ruling clarifies when warrantless arrests and seizures in drug cases are valid, and when procedural lapses still allow conviction.
Defective Summons: How Improper Service Can Void an Ejectment Case in the Philippines
Learn how defective summons and improper substituted service can void an ejectment case, based on a Philippine Supreme Court ruling.
Reconstitution of Lost Title Allowed: Supreme Court Clarifies R.A. 26 Requirements
Supreme Court clarifies the rules on judicial reconstitution of lost certificates of title under Republic Act No. 26.
Land Reclassification and CARP Coverage: Prior Zoning Determines Exemption
When does a zoning ordinance exempt land from agrarian reform? The Supreme Court clarifies the rules on land classification and CARP coverage.
Murder with Direct Assault: Supreme Court Affirms Conviction in People v. Estonilo
The Supreme Court affirmed the conviction for Murder with Direct Assault in People v. Estonilo, highlighting the role of circumstantial evidence and the weakness of alibi.
Duty Free Philippines v. BIR: The Perils of Skipping the CTA En Banc on Appeal
A direct appeal to the Supreme Court from a CTA Division ruling is fatal. Learn the correct appellate route under R.A. 9282.
Forged Documents and Land Titles: Protecting Registered Owners From Fraudulent Sales
The Supreme Court clarifies the rules on judicial reconstitution of lost titles under Republic Act No. 26, protecting registered owners from fraud.
Security Guards Duty to Accept Assignments vs Constructive Dismissal
When does a security guard's floating status become constructive dismissal? The Supreme Court clarifies the rule in Exocet v. Serrano.
No-Build Zones and National Permits: What Aquino v. Malay Means for Developers
The Supreme Court ruled that a DENR permit does not override local no-build zone ordinances. Here's what developers must know.
Maceda Law Rights of Installment Buyers in Real Estate Contracts
The Supreme Court explains how the Maceda Law protects installment buyers, including the required cash surrender value before contract cancellation.
Chain of Custody in Drug Cases: Why Evidence Integrity Is Crucial
The Supreme Court acquits two accused in a drug case for broken chain of custody and non-compliance with Section 21 of RA 9165.