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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Breach of Trust: Understanding Malversation of Public Funds in the Philippines
The Supreme Court explains the elements of malversation under Article 217 of the Revised Penal Code, including the presumption of misappropriation when funds are not forthcoming upon demand.
Full Restitution No Defense in Malversation: Perez v. People Explained
Full restitution does not erase criminal liability for malversation of public funds. Learn the elements, defenses, and penalties under Article 217.
NLRC vs Regular Courts: Where to File Damages Claims in Dismissal Cases
Learn when illegal dismissal damages claims belong to the NLRC labor arbiter, not regular courts, under Article 217 of the Labor Code.
Malversation in the Philippines: Why Failure to Liquidate Cash Advances Can Lead to Criminal Charges
A clerk of court's failure to account for missing public funds triggered malversation charges under Article 217 of the Revised Penal Code.
Cash Advances and Malversation: When Failure to Liquidate Becomes a Crime
The Supreme Court clarifies when unpaid cash advances constitute malversation under Article 217 and why arraignment waives objections.
Reservation of Rights in Quasi-Delict Cases: Protecting Your Civil Claim in the Philippines
Learn when you must reserve your right to file an independent civil action for quasi-delict under Article 2176 of the Civil Code.
Malversation in the Philippines: When Can a Public Official Be Held Liable
Explaining when public officials face malversation charges under Article 217, and why COA audit clearance does not automatically end criminal liability.