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.
How to Register a Corporation in the Philippines: A Step-by-Step Guide
Learn how to register a corporation in the Philippines under the Revised Corporation Code, from name reservation to SEC issuance of the certificate of incorporation.
BIR Registration for New Businesses in the Philippines: Steps and Requirements
Complete guide to BIR registration for new businesses in the Philippines: forms, documentary requirements, and step-by-step process to register and comply.
Business Permit Requirements Philippines: A Complete Guide for 2025
Learn the business permit requirements in the Philippines, including local business tax, barangay clearance, and renewal deadlines for new and existing businesses.
Unauthorized Foreshore Structures as Public Nuisance: Calimlim v. Goño
The Supreme Court rules that unauthorized structures on foreshore land constitute a public nuisance and must be removed.
Tax Assessment vs Tax Refund: Know Your Rights Under the Local Government Code
The Supreme Court clarifies when taxpayers may claim a refund under Section 196 instead of protesting an assessment under Section 195 of the Local Government Code.
Balancing Local Authority and National Mining Rights: The Luisito Marty Case
A mayor's refusal to issue mining permits tested the line between local autonomy and national mining law. The Supreme Court's ruling explained.
Upholding Local Authority When Business Permits AND Public Welfare Collide
Supreme Court ruling on when local governments may validly withhold permits and shut down businesses for sanitation violations.
Residency Redefined: Upholding Election Results Despite Challenges to Candidate's Domicile
The Supreme Court clarifies residency rules for local candidates, upholding John Henry Osmeña's win as Toledo City mayor despite domicile challenges.
Protecting Local Autonomy Upholding Environmental Stewardship Over Business Interests
The Supreme Court dismissed a disbarment case against local officials, affirming their power to enforce environmental laws over business interests.
Newspaper Circulation and Foreclosure: Ensuring Public Notice in Property Sales
Supreme Court nullifies foreclosure sale because notice was published in a newspaper not circulated in the city where the property was located.
Local Government Authority and Ordinance Enforcement: A Guide for Businesses
Learn how the Supreme Court affirmed a city mayor's duty to enforce local ordinances, and what this means for businesses operating under reclassified zones.
Expired Business Permit and Court-Ordered Reopening: The Mathay v. Felt Foods Rule
When a business permit expires, courts generally cannot compel an LGU to allow reopening—even if the closure order was questionable.
When Can an Employee Be Dismissed for Loss of Trust and Confidence: A Philippine Guide
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies the high standard for dismissing employees on grounds of loss of trust and confidence.