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.
Just Compensation in Agrarian Reform: Why the Valuation Date Matters
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies that just compensation in agrarian reform must use the valuation date and DAR formula applicable at the time of taking.
Equitable Mortgage vs Pacto de Retro: Protecting Borrowers From Unfair Loan Agreements
When is a "sale with right to repurchase" really a loan? The Supreme Court explains equitable mortgage and pactum commissorium.
Implied Trusts and Co-Ownership: Hidden Property Rights in Family Lending Businesses
When a family lending business buys property under one sibling's name, an implied trust may preserve everyone's share.
Eminent Domain Easements Just Compensation For Perpetual Restrictions ON Property USE
When a right-of-way easement for transmission lines permanently restricts property use, full just compensation, not a mere easement fee, is due.
Fair Compensation in Land Reform: Upholding Valuation Standards in Agrarian Disputes
The Supreme Court clarifies that courts must follow DAR valuation formulas in agrarian reform cases, not subjective judgments.
Co-Ownership and Property Recovery: When Must All Owners Join a Lawsuit
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when co-owners must be impleaded in property recovery suits under Article 487 of the Civil Code.
Security of Tenure: Defining Agricultural Tenancy in Philippine Law
The Supreme Court clarifies what makes a person an agricultural lessee entitled to security of tenure under Philippine agrarian laws.