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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Lowest Bidder Rights: When a Bidder Is Entitled to a Government Contract
The Supreme Court clarifies that being the lowest bidder does not automatically entitle a bidder to a government contract award.
Waiver of Contractual Conditions in the Philippines: Lessons from Gonzales v. Lim
Learn when a party waives a contractual condition under Philippine law, based on the Supreme Court's ruling in Gonzales v. Lim.
When a Lease of Coconut Trees Becomes an Agricultural Leasehold: Granada v. Bormaheco
The Supreme Court explains when a contract labeled as a lease of coconut trees may actually create an agricultural leasehold with security of tenure.
Future Inheritance Contracts Are Void: Arrogante v. Deliarte Explained
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on void contracts over future inheritance, and the exceptions that can save family property arrangements.
Price Certainty in Real Estate Sales: When a "Yes" Is Not Enough
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies that a contract of sale requires a definite price; vague terms and unresolved payment details prevent perfection.
Fixed-Term Employment: Employers Cannot Terminate Before Contract Expiry Without Just Cause
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on fixed-term employment: employers cannot terminate workers before contract expiry without just cause, even with waiver clauses.
Upholding Contractual Obligations: The Validity of a Special Power of Attorney in Property Transfers
A Supreme Court ruling clarifies jurisdiction in property disputes, the statute of frauds, and rights of first refusal in Philippine real estate law.
Loan or Sale? How Philippine Courts Determine the True Intent of a Contract
A Supreme Court ruling shows that reformation requires proof of mistake, fraud, or accident — and that courts will not rewrite a contract simply because one party regrets it.
Joint vs Solidary Obligations: What the Supreme Court Says About Liability in Contracts
A Supreme Court ruling clarifies when multiple debtors are only jointly liable, not solidarily liable, under Philippine contract law.
Regular vs. Project Employees: Security of Tenure in Service Contracting
The Supreme Court clarifies when workers in service contracting are regular employees entitled to security of tenure, not mere project hires.
Seafarer Disability Benefits for Illness Contracted During the Contract Term
A seafarer who falls ill during his contract may claim total disability benefits even if the illness is not work-related, the Supreme Court ruled in 2007.
Employer-Employee Relationship and Due Process in Labor-Only Contracting Cases
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on employer-employee relationships, probationary employment, and the twin requirements of notice and hearing in illegal dismissal cases.
Regular Employment Status of Drama Talents: Security of Tenure vs Independent Contractorship
Philippine Supreme Court rules drama talents are regular employees, not independent contractors, when work is necessary to business.
Breach of Promise or Employment Contract: Who Has Jurisdiction Over Damage Claims?
A Supreme Court ruling clarifies when a damage claim for breach of employment promise belongs to regular courts, not the NLRC.
Upholding Contractual Obligations: Enforceability of Sales Invoices Despite Claims of Discrepancies
Supreme Court affirms that signed sales invoices are binding evidence of delivery and payment obligations, even when a buyer later claims short deliveries.
Lawyer Suspended for Contracting Second Marriage While First Was Subsisting
A lawyer's second marriage while his first remained valid led to a one-year suspension, underscoring lawyers' duty to know the law.
When a Lawyer's Second Marriage Becomes a Professional Misconduct Case
A municipal legal officer faces suspension for contracting a second marriage while his first remained valid, highlighting lawyers' duty to know the law.
Contract Rescission and RTC Jurisdiction: Lessons from Villena v. Payoyo
When rescinding a contract is the primary remedy, the case belongs in the Regional Trial Court—even if the monetary claim is small.
HLURB Jurisdiction Limits: When Buyers Must Sue in Regular Courts
Supreme Court clarifies HLURB jurisdiction over refund and contract disputes, requiring subdivision lot allegations for agency jurisdiction.
Perfecting a Loan Delivery and the Role of Crossed Checks in Financial Agreements
When is a loan perfected? The Supreme Court clarifies how delivery of crossed checks affects loan contracts and interest claims.
Regular vs Contractual Employment: Key Distinctions and Rights in the Philippines
Understand the key distinctions between regular and contractual employment in the Philippines, including employee rights and management prerogatives under labor law.
Double Sale and Estafa: When a Land Transaction Can Lead to Criminal Charges
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when a double sale of land becomes estafa, requiring deceit and damage, not mere breach of contract.
Contract to Sell vs Contract of Sale: Key Differences and Buyer Protections in Philippine Real Estate
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies the distinction between a contract to sell and a contract of sale, and what it means for buyers and sellers.
Non-Compete Clauses in Philippine Employment: When Post-Employment Restrictions Are Valid
The Supreme Court explains when non-compete clauses in employment contracts are valid and enforceable under Philippine law.