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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Foreign Investment Restrictions in Philippine Construction: Insights from the PCAB v. Manila Water Ruling
The Supreme Court struck down the 60% Filipino equity rule for construction licenses, reshaping foreign investment in the industry.
Navigating Firearms Regulation in the Philippines: The Supreme Court's Ruling on RA 10591
The Supreme Court upheld most of RA 10591 but struck down the PNP's warrantless home inspection consent requirement for firearm license applicants.
Unlicensed Contractors and Unfulfilled Promises: Recouping Losses From Defective Renovations
Learn how Philippine law treats defective renovation work by unlicensed contractors and the remedies available to homeowners seeking compensation.
License Plate Standardization: Budget Validity and Public Safety Upheld
Supreme Court affirms the constitutionality of funding the LTO's Motor Vehicle License Plate Standardization Program under the 2014 GAA.
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.
Illegal Recruitment and Estafa: Liability for Promising Overseas Work
The Supreme Court affirmed convictions for illegal recruitment in large scale and estafa where accused spouses promised overseas jobs without a POEA license.
Tax Exemption for PAGCOR Licensees: Understanding the Scope of PD 1869
The Supreme Court clarifies that PAGCOR licensees remain exempt from corporate income tax on gaming operations under PD 1869.
Treachery and Witness Identification in Murder and Frustrated Murder Cases
The Supreme Court affirms murder and frustrated murder convictions, explaining treachery, witness credibility, and unlicensed firearm aggravating circumstances.
Marriage Nullity for Absence of Marriage License: What the Supreme Court Says
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on declaring marriage void for lack of marriage license, evidence rules, and practical implications.
Illegal Recruitment: When Promising Overseas Jobs Without a License Becomes a Crime
The Supreme Court clarifies when promising overseas employment without a license constitutes illegal recruitment in large scale under Philippine law.
When Eyewitness Testimony AND Unlicensed Firearms Determine Guilt IN Murder Cases
Breach of Trust as Ground for Dismissal: Manager's Dishonest Dealings Upheld
Supreme Court affirms dismissal of a manager who failed to account for funds and licenses, ruling that loss of trust and confidence was justified.
Breach of Contract and Trust: Obligations in Film Licensing Agreements
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when a licensee may reject films and whether licensors owe fees to third-party owners in licensing deals.
When a Blessing Becomes an Illegal Marriage Ceremony: The Ronulo Case
The Supreme Court clarifies when a priest's blessing of a couple without a marriage license becomes an illegal marriage ceremony under Article 352 of the Revised Penal Code.
Illegal Recruitment and Estafa: Protecting OFWs From Unlicensed Recruiters
A Supreme Court ruling clarifies when unlicensed recruiters face life imprisonment and estafa penalties for defrauding overseas job seekers.
Rape and Consent: Why Love Does Not Justify Sexual Assault in Philippine Law
Philippine Supreme Court ruling affirms that being sweethearts is not a license for non-consensual sex, upholding rape convictions and clarifying the sweetheart defense.
Valid Contracts Despite Regulatory Lapses: Moldex Realty vs. Flora Saberon
Philippine Supreme Court rules that a developer's lack of license or failure to register does not void a contract to sell.
Cockfighting Operations License As A Privilege And The Absence Of A Cause Of Action
License to operate a cockpit is a mere privilege, not a property right. No cause of action exists without a legal right.
HLURB Jurisdiction: Protecting Subdivision Lot Buyers From Developer Non-Compliance
When a licensed developer sells a lot and fails to deliver title, the HLURB has jurisdiction over the buyer's claim—regardless of project size.
Treachery and Unlicensed Firearms: Defining Murder and Penalties in Philippine Law
The Supreme Court explains when a sudden, surprise shooting amounts to treachery for murder, and why using an unlicensed firearm can raise the penalty.
When Can a Foreign Corporation Sue in the Philippines? The Cargill Case
The Cargill ruling clarifies when an unlicensed foreign corporation may sue in Philippine courts and what "doing business" means.
Deceptive Recruitment Estafa Conviction Affirmed for False Promise of Overseas Employment
Supreme Court affirms estafa conviction of an unlicensed recruiter who falsely promised overseas employment and collected fees from victims.
Selling Subdivision Lots Without A License Hlurb Authority AND Criminal Liability Under PD 957
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies that selling subdivision lots without an HLURB license is a crime, and a later license does not erase liability.
Selling Subdivision Lots Without a License: Criminal Liability Under P.D. 957
Selling subdivision lots without an HLURB license is a crime. A later license does not erase liability, explains the Supreme Court.