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.

Showing 4956 of 56 articles for utility

Defining Jurisdiction: Courts vs Energy Regulatory Board in Overcharging Disputes

Supreme Court clarifies that regular courts, not the ERB, hear disputes over electric overcharging and recovery of sums.

Overtaking at a Curve: Determining Negligence and Liability in Vehicular Accidents

Philippine Supreme Court ruling on overtaking at curves, negligence presumption, and common carrier liability for passenger deaths.

Child Support Cannot Be Waived: Res Judicata in Philippine Family Law

Philippine Supreme Court rules that a child's right to support cannot be renounced or barred by a prior dismissal, citing Civil Code Articles 301 and 2035.

When Workplace Fear Leads to Constructive Dismissal: Philippine Seafarers' Rights

Philippine Supreme Court ruling on constructive dismissal for seafarers who quit due to well-founded fear for their safety at work.

Franchise Boundaries: When NPC Can Supply Power Over Existing Franchises

Philippine Supreme Court ruling on when NPC may directly supply power within areas covered by existing electric franchise holders.

NTC Collegiality: How the Supreme Court Settled Regulatory Decision-Making in Philippine Telecoms

The Supreme Court ruled the NTC is a collegial body; a single commissioner cannot decide cases alone. Learn the rule and its impact.

Accretion vs. Foreshore Land in the Philippines: Who Owns Newly Formed Land?

Philippine law distinguishes accretion from foreshore land. Learn who owns newly formed land along rivers and seas under the Civil Code and the Spanish Law of Waters.

PCGG Sequestration Orders: Due Process and Valid Authority Requirements

The Supreme Court rules that PCGG sequestration orders require at least two Commissioners and a prima facie showing, protecting due process rights.