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.
Ombudsman's Discretion in Graft Cases: When Courts Step In
Explore how Philippine courts review Ombudsman discretion in graft cases, balancing prosecutorial independence with judicial oversight.
Welga ng Bayan and Illegal Work Stoppage: What Philippine Employees Should Know
Joining a welga ng bayan without notice can be an illegal work stoppage. Learn the rules from the Biflex case.
Illegal Demolition as Grave Coercion: Property Rights and Due Process in the Philippines
When does demolition become a crime? The Sy case shows how unlawful property destruction can constitute grave coercion under Philippine law.
Substituted Service of Summons: When a Security Guard Can Validly Receive It
Philippine Supreme Court rules on substituted service of summons through a subdivision security guard and its effect on court jurisdiction.
When a Security Guard Can Validly Receive Summons: The Robinson v. Miralles Doctrine
The Supreme Court ruled that substituted service of summons through a security guard can be valid when a defendant obstructs personal service.
Due Process in Employee Dismissal: Salazar v. Philippine Duplicators Explained
The Supreme Court clarifies procedural due process in Salazar v. Philippine Duplicators, Inc., a landmark case on employee termination in the Philippines.
Rescission Rights in Pacto de Retro Sales: When Can a Seller Reclaim Property
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when a seller can rescind a pacto de retro sale and reclaim property from a defaulting buyer.
Novation and Insurance Claims: Contractual Obligations in Secured Transactions
When a mortgaged car is carnapped, does insurance payment extinguish the loan? The Supreme Court clarifies novation rules.
Timber License vs Contract: DENR Authority Over Forest Resources
Supreme Court ruling on whether a timber license agreement and presidential warranty create vested rights against DENR's regulatory authority over forest resources.
When a Waiver Revives Rights: Property Disputes and Quitclaims in the Philippines
A Supreme Court ruling clarifies that a default order in land registration cases does not bar the government from appealing, and explains the limits of waiver in property disputes.
Business Closure in the Philippines: Navigating Layoffs and Employee Rights During Financial Distress
Learn the rules on business closure in the Philippines, including separation pay, notice requirements, and employee rights when a company shuts down due to losses.
Protecting Subdivision Buyers: Contracts to Sell Must Be Registered
Philippine Supreme Court ruling clarifies that subdivision developers must register contracts to sell with the Register of Deeds under P.D. 957.
Substantial Compliance in Appellate Procedure: Balancing Technical Rules and Justice
The Supreme Court relaxes technical rules in labor cases, allowing substantial compliance with Rule 65 and Rule 13 requirements.
Void Judgments Protecting Real Parties in Interest in Property Disputes
When a court decides a property case without the true owner, the judgment is void—protecting buyers who were never impleaded.
The Ombudsman's Control Over Special Prosecutors: Limits on Prosecutorial Authority
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on the Ombudsman's authority over special prosecutors and the limits of prosecutorial discretion in criminal cases.
Motion for Reconsideration: Avoiding Pro Forma Dismissals in Philippine Courts
Learn how Philippine courts treat procedural lapses in motions for reconsideration, and why substantive justice prevails over technicalities.
Estate Settlement When Probate Courts Cant Decide Ownership Disputes
Learn how Philippine courts handle land registration disputes, including the need for original tracing cloth plans and clear evidence of ownership.
Land Registration and the Importance of Accurate Property Identification: Republic vs. Enriquez
A land registration case shows why accurate property identification is crucial, and how discrepancies in area can defeat a title application.
Barangay vs. Homeowners: Who Administers a Multi-Purpose Hall?
The Supreme Court clarifies the division of authority between barangays and homeowners' associations over government-funded facilities in subdivisions.
When Public Duty and Private Conduct Collide: A Judge’s Venue Ruling Upheld
The Supreme Court affirms a judge’s dismissal of a case for improper venue, clarifying exclusive venue stipulations in loan contracts.
Warranty Against Eviction: Why Buyers Must Implead the Seller in Eviction Suits
Buyers who lose property to third-party claims must implead the seller in the eviction suit to enforce the warranty against eviction under Philippine law.
Philippine Supreme Court Upholds Consumer Rights Publication Required FOR Electricity Rate Hikes
The Supreme Court ruled that electricity rate hike applications must be published and opened for public comment, protecting consumer rights under the EPIRA.
Faulty Substituted Service of Summons: When Courts Fail to Acquire Jurisdiction
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when substituted service of summons is invalid, and why courts fail to acquire jurisdiction over defendants.
Corporate Asset Purchases and Prior Presidential Approval: DBP v. COA
Explaining the Supreme Court ruling in DBP v. COA on prior presidential approval for government corporate vehicle purchases and disallowance.