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.
Seafarer Claims and Agency Transfers: What the Supreme Court Ruled
Learn how agency transfers affect seafarer liability claims, including the original manning agency's continuing responsibility under Philippine law.
Understanding Estoppel by Laches in Philippine Land Disputes: A Landmark Ruling
Learn how estoppel by laches bars stale land claims in the Philippines, based on a landmark Supreme Court ruling.
Extinctive Novation: When a New Loan Cancels an Old Debt and Invalidates Foreclosure
Philippine Supreme Court ruling explains how extinctive novation cancels old debts and why foreclosing on extinguished obligations is premature and void.
Arbitration Awards and Judicial Review: The Adapon Case on Enforceability in the Philippines
Philippine courts may only vacate arbitral awards on limited grounds. The Adapon case clarifies the scope of judicial review.
The Limits of Certiorari and the Finality of Acquittal in Philippine Law
A Supreme Court ruling clarifies when an acquittal can still carry civil liability, and the procedural consequences of filing a demurrer to evidence.
The Prejudicial Question Doctrine: When a Civil Case Outcome Bars Criminal Prosecution
Learn how the Supreme Court applied the prejudicial question doctrine to dismiss falsification charges after a civil case settled the core issue.
Understanding the Elements of Rape and the Power of Victim Testimony in Philippine Law
A 2021 Supreme Court ruling explains the elements of rape and why a credible victim's testimony can be enough to convict.
Understanding Child Abuse and Sexual Exploitation Laws in the Philippines: Protecting Our Youth
The Supreme Court clarifies the distinction between lascivious conduct and child abuse under R.A. 7610 in a teacher's conviction.
What Happens to an Administrative Case When the Respondent Dies? (Philippines)
Philippine Supreme Court rules on whether death of a respondent ends a pending administrative case, citing due process and heirs' protection.
HLURB Decisions in Homeowners’ Association Disputes: Appeal to the CA, Not the OP
A Supreme Court ruling clarifies that HLURB decisions on intra-association disputes must be appealed directly to the Court of Appeals, not the Office of the President.
Security Guard Negligence and Damnum Absque Injuria: Lessons from a Philippine Supreme Court Ruling
A Supreme Court ruling on security agency liability, negligence, and the principle of damnum absque injuria, explained for property owners and agencies.
Treachery vs. Abuse of Superior Strength: Key Ruling in Philippine Murder Cases
The Supreme Court clarifies how treachery absorbs abuse of superior strength in murder cases, and why self-defense claims fail against positive identification.
Employer Liability for Unremitted SSS Contributions: Key Lessons from the Supreme Court
The Supreme Court clarifies employer liability for unremitted SSS contributions, damages, and penalties under the Social Security Act.
Proper Party in Reversion Cases: AFAB v. F.F. Cruz and State Ownership of Public Lands
When can a government agency sue to cancel titles over public lands? The Supreme Court clarifies reversion actions and real party in interest rules.
Understanding Juridical Possession and Its Impact on Estafa Convictions in the Philippines
A branch manager's conviction for estafa was reversed because she lacked juridical possession of goods—explaining a key element of Article 315.
Navigating Land Reversion: Who Can Legally Challenge Property Titles in the Philippines
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies who may file reversion cases to cancel titles over public lands, and why government agencies cannot act alone.
Understanding the Limits of Injunctive Relief in Bank Liquidation: A Philippine Perspective
The Supreme Court clarifies when courts may—and may not—issue injunctions against the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas during bank liquidation proceedings.
Loan Agreements and Interest Rates: Lessons from a Philippine Supreme Court Ruling
A Philippine Supreme Court ruling clarifies when banks may impose penalty charges and compound interest under loan restructuring agreements.
Navigating Disability Claims: Why Comprehensive Medical Assessments Matter for Seafarers
A Supreme Court ruling on seafarer disability benefits highlights why complete, final medical assessments are crucial in maritime compensation claims.
Understanding Hold Departure Orders and the Right to Travel in Philippine Criminal Cases
The Supreme Court explains when courts may issue hold departure orders and how bail affects an accused person's right to travel.
Understanding Gross Negligence and Due Process in Employee Termination: Insights from a Landmark Philippine Ca
The Supreme Court clarifies probationary employment standards, performance appraisal, and due process in termination cases under Philippine labor law.
Understanding the Statute of Limitations in Public Officials' Financial Disclosure Violations
The Supreme Court clarifies when prescription runs for SALN violations under RA 6713 and RA 3019, and what constitutes concealment.
Blanket Mortgage Clauses: When Courts Protect Borrowers in Philippine Real Estate
A Supreme Court ruling shows when blanket mortgage clauses fail to cover new loans and why courts protect borrowers.
Hold Departure Orders and the Right to Travel: What Philippine Courts Can Do
When can Philippine courts issue hold departure orders? The Supreme Court explains the limits on the right to travel.