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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Defining Capital: Filipino Control of Public Utilities Under the Constitution
The Supreme Court clarifies that mean in the Constitution's requirement that public utilities be at least 60% Filipino-owned? The answer—that "capital" refers to voting stock, not all outstanding shar
Concurrent Jurisdiction: The CSC's Role in Disciplining State University Personnel
The Supreme Court clarifies that the CSC shares original jurisdiction with state university boards of regents over administrative cases against school officials.
CSC Jurisdiction Over Administrative Cases Against State University Officials
Supreme Court rules CSC shares original jurisdiction with state university boards of regents over administrative cases filed directly by any complainant.
Water Rights and Foreign Investment: Protecting Philippine Natural Resources
The Supreme Court clarifies constitutional limits on foreign ownership of water resources and power assets in the Philippines.
When Due Process Is Denied: Judge Fined for Ignoring Indispensable Parties and Legal Procedures
A Supreme Court administrative case shows how a judge was fined for ignoring indispensable parties, skipping summons rules, and violating notice requirements.
Upholding Due Process in Administrative Cases: The Standard of Substantial Evidence
The Supreme Court clarifies that administrative liability requires substantial evidence of wrongdoing, not mere presumption or opportunity to commit an offense.
Burden of Proof in Medical Negligence: Surgeons Not Automatically Liable for Patient's Death
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies that surgeons are not automatically liable for a patient's death; plaintiffs must prove negligence and causation.
Taxation of Non-Profit Hospitals: Balancing Charity and Commerce in the Philippines
The Supreme Court clarifies when non-profit hospitals lose income tax exemption and pay the 10% preferential rate under the NIRC.
Loan Restructuring vs Foreclosure: Borrower Rights in the Philippines
When does a pending loan restructuring stop a bank from foreclosing? The Supreme Court explains borrower rights and limits.
Tax Amnesty Under RA 9480: Can It Cover Prior Tax Assessments?
The Supreme Court ruled that a taxpayer may avail of the 2007 tax amnesty under RA 9480 even with a pending assessment, settling the scope of the program.
Balancing Security and Liberty: Understanding the Limits of Amparo and Habeas Data Petitions in the Philippine
The Supreme Court clarifies when amparo and habeas data writs may be granted, emphasizing substantial evidence over mere fears.
Balancing Security and Liberty: Substantial Evidence in Amparo and Habeas Data Cases
The Supreme Court clarifies the evidentiary standard for amparo and habeas data petitions, balancing national security concerns with individual liberty.
Court Cash Clerk Dismissed for Dishonesty and Misconduct in Handling Judiciary Funds
Supreme Court affirms dismissal of court cash clerk for misappropriating judiciary funds through falsified official receipts, citing public trust principles.
Annulment of Judgment: When a Non-Party Can Challenge a Final Court Decision
Learn when Philippine courts allow annulment of judgment under Rule 47, and why non-parties have limited remedies.
Central Bank Independence vs. Contractual Obligations: Resolving Disputes Over Government Securities
The Supreme Court rules that the Bangko Sentral cannot adjudicate ownership disputes over government securities, and regular courts must resolve them.
Proof of Notice of Dishonor: A Critical Safeguard in Bouncing Check Cases
Learn how the Supreme Court requires strict proof of written notice of dishonor before convicting under the Bouncing Checks Law.
Judicial Accountability: Undue Delay and Misconduct Claims Against Judges in the Philippines
The Supreme Court clarifies when judges face administrative liability for delay and misconduct, and when complaints merely substitute for lost judicial remedies.
Voiding Contracts: The Perils of Selling Future Inheritance and Post-Mortem Deeds in Philippine Property Law
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when a non-party can annul a judgment and the risks of selling inherited property before the estate is settled.
Sheriffs Misconduct Upholding Integrity In Execution Of Court Orders
When a sheriff mishandles execution funds and demands extra fees, the Supreme Court steps in. Learn the rules and consequences.
Annulment of Judgment: Who Can Sue and When It Is Allowed Under Philippine Law
Learn who may file annulment of judgment under Rule 47, the limited grounds, and why non-parties have other remedies.
Annulment of Judgment: When a Non-Party Can Challenge a Final Court Decision
A non-party cannot seek annulment of judgment under Rule 47 if the decision does not bind or prejudice them. The Supreme Court explains the proper remedies.
Sheriffs Must Execute Writs Promptly: The Timely Enforcement Duty in the Philippines
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies sheriffs have a ministerial duty to execute writs promptly, with no discretion to delay absent a court order.
Bad Faith in Unregistered Land Sales and Trust Disputes: Belle Corp. v. De Leon-Banks
When can a buyer of unregistered land be sued for bad faith? The Supreme Court clarifies pleading rules in trust and property disputes.
Rape Conviction Affirmed: Consent and Circumstantial Evidence in Philippine Law
Explore the Supreme Court's ruling in People v. Lupac on proving rape through circumstantial evidence and the limits of consent when the victim is unconscious.