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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Falsifying Time Records in Government: The Case of a Court Process Server Dismissed for Dishonesty
A Supreme Court ruling shows how falsified daily time records lead to dismissal for dishonesty, forfeiture of benefits, and disqualification from public office.
From Partial to Total: Converting Disability Benefits Under Philippine Law
When can a permanent partial disability (PPD) benefit be converted to permanent total disability (PTD)? The Supreme Court explains in GSIS v. Casco.
Constructive Dismissal: When Forced Resignation Through Pay Reduction Is Illegal
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on constructive dismissal when an employer's pay reduction forces an employee to resign.
Compulsory Retirement at 60: When Company Policy Violates Security of Tenure
A company policy forcing retirement at 60 can be illegal dismissal. The Supreme Court explains the difference between voluntary and compulsory retirement.
False Promises and Financial Ruin: Establishing Estafa Through Deceit in Investment Schemes
The Supreme Court affirms that luring investors with false profit promises constitutes estafa, even when the accused claims ignorance of the scheme.
Overseas Litigants and the Verification Requirement: Balancing Rules With Reality
The Supreme Court rules that a variance in dates between a petition and its verification is not fatal when overseas litigants act in good faith.
Defining Employer When Family Administration Creates Social Security Obligations
A Supreme Court ruling clarifies when a family member managing a hacienda becomes an "employer" liable for SSS contributions.
Dual Roles, Divided Loyalties: Graft Law and the Limits of Hypothetical Guilt
The Supreme Court clarifies when a public officer can be charged with graft for holding incompatible positions and collecting dual compensation.
No Back Salaries for Government Employees Dismissed in Good Faith: Protecting Public Funds
Supreme Court rules government employees dismissed in good faith are not entitled to back salaries upon reinstatement, upholding Octot v. Ybañez.
Dual Citizens Must Personally Renounce Foreign Citizenship to Run for Office
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on R.A. 9225: dual citizens must execute a personal and sworn renunciation of foreign citizenship to run for elective office.
Recomputation of Retirement Benefits: Step Increments and Special Allowances for Retired Justices
The Supreme Court clarifies that step increments and special allowances form part of the basic monthly salary base for computing judicial retirement benefits.
Dismissal of Appeal When Technical Rules Trump Substantial Justice
When do procedural lapses justify dismissing an appeal? This article explains the rule and its limits, using Philippine Supreme Court jurisprudence.
Dismissal for Grave Misconduct: Upholding Ethical Standards in Public Procurement
Supreme Court affirms dismissal of BFP regional director for grave misconduct in anomalous procurement, stressing public officers' duty to follow procurement rules.
Circumstantial Evidence and Conviction: The Nover Bryan Salvador Case
When can circumstantial evidence alone convict an accused? The Supreme Court explains in this landmark Philippine homicide case.
Upholding Workers Rights THE Importance OF Valid Union Registration AND Protection Against Employer Interference
Habitual Tardiness in Public Service: Defining Limits and Upholding Accountability
The Supreme Court clarifies what constitutes habitual tardiness in government service and why traffic is not a valid excuse.
Double Jeopardy and Grave Abuse of Discretion: Protecting Acquittals From Reversal
The Supreme Court explains when an acquittal is final and how grave abuse of discretion is the only exception.
Tenancy vs. Administration: Who Decides Agricultural Land Disputes
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when courts or agrarian tribunals hear land disputes, distinguishing tenancy from mere administration.
Philippine Airlines Retrenchment: Proving Financial Distress and Fair Implementation
The Supreme Court ruled PAL's 1998 mass retrenchment illegal for failure to prove losses and use fair criteria. Here's what employers must show.
When Can Power Generators Be Exempted from Power Delivery Charges
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on when independent power producers may be exempt from Power Delivery Service charges for ancillary services.
Judicial Accountability: Fines for Negligence and Delay in Legal Proceedings
A Supreme Court ruling holds court officers accountable for gross negligence and delay, affirming that retirement does not erase administrative liability.
Dual Citizens and Elective Office: The Sworn Renunciation Requirement Under R.A. 9225
Dual citizens must personally renounce foreign citizenship to run for office. The Supreme Court explains the rule.
Unlawful Appointments: Does Temporary Disqualification Mean Lack of Legal Qualification?
Supreme Court clarifies that temporary disqualification of losing candidates constitutes lack of legal qualification under Article 244, RPC.