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.
Priority in Land Titles: Why Earlier Registration Wins in Philippine Property Disputes
When two titles cover the same land, the earlier registration generally prevails. Learn the rule and how to protect your property.
Who Bears the Burden of Proof in Philippine Labor Disputes Over Unpaid Wages
A look at Ropali Trading v. NLRC, where the Supreme Court clarified who must prove payment of wages and commissions in labor cases.
Unwritten Company Policy and Illegal Dismissal: The Bangloy Case
Can an employee be fired under an unwritten policy? The Bangloy case shows why written, communicated rules are vital in Philippine labor law.
Perfecting CAR Sales Contracts IN THE Philippines Understanding Buyer Rights AND Seller Obligations
Learn when a car sale contract is perfected in the Philippines, buyer rights, and seller obligations from the Xentrex Automotive case.
Counterclaims After Complaint Dismissal: Philippine Rules Explained
Learn when counterclaims survive dismissal of the main complaint under Philippine civil procedure, based on the Fletcher Challenge case.
When Workplace Fear Leads to Constructive Dismissal: Philippine Seafarers' Rights
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on constructive dismissal for seafarers who quit due to well-founded fear for their safety at work.
Tuition Fee Hikes and Wage Increases: Employee Rights in Philippine Schools
Explaining the Supreme Court ruling on how tuition fee increases relate to mandatory wage hikes for school employees under Philippine law.
Project vs Regular Employee: What Brahm Industries Teaches About Valid Dismissal
The Supreme Court clarifies the difference between project and regular employees, and the due process required for lawful dismissal in the Philippines.
Employers Bad Faith Actions Employee Rights AND Remedies IN THE Philippines
Learn how Philippine law protects employees and passengers from employer bad faith, with remedies and damages explained in plain language.
The Duty to Prosecute Appeals: Why Inaction Can Get Your Appeal Dismissed in the Philippines
Philippine law requires appellants to actively prosecute their appeals. Learn why waiting for court notices can lead to dismissal.
Counterclaims in Criminal Cases: When Can the Accused Seek Damages?
The Supreme Court in Cabaero v. Cantos clarifies when an accused may file a counterclaim for damages in a criminal case, and when a separate civil action is required.
Negligence Trumps Fortuitous Events: Service Shops Must Insure Customer Vehicles
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on when a service shop's failure to insure customer property makes it liable for loss by fire, even if the fire is a fortuitous event.
Liability for Damage to Stored Goods: Negligence and Interest Rates Explained
A warehouse operator's negligence can mean paying for damaged goods. Learn the rules on liability and the correct interest rates.
Recto Law Explained: Deficiency Claims After Chattel Mortgage Foreclosure
Understand Article 1484 (Recto Law) and when sellers can still recover attorney's fees after foreclosing on installment-sold personal property.
Builder in Good Faith in the Philippines: Rights Under Property Law
When can a mistaken builder claim good faith under Philippine law? The Supreme Court's ruling in Pleasantville clarifies the rights of builders and landowners.