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.
Import Restrictions and Preliminary Injunctions: Lessons from Alcala v. Carpio
The Supreme Court clarifies when courts may issue preliminary injunctions against customs seizures of rice imports lacking NFA permits.
Customs Jurisdiction and Forum Shopping in Importation Disputes
Supreme Court clarifies CTA jurisdiction over customs seizure cases and when forum shopping does not apply in importation disputes.
Probable Cause Required Before Customs Seizure: Commissioner of Customs v. Singson
Philippine Supreme Court rules customs forfeiture requires probable cause first, not mere suspicion or certification.
Probable Cause and Customs Seizure: Protecting Due Process in Forfeiture Cases
The Supreme Court clarifies that probable cause must precede customs seizure and forfeiture, protecting claimants from arbitrary government action.
Regulated vs. Prohibited Goods: The Limits of Agency Discretion in Customs Seizures
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on when customs authorities may hold seized goods and the distinction between regulated and prohibited imports.
When Can the Solicitor General Represent Public Officials: Clarifying Conflicts of Interest in Damage Suits
The Supreme Court clarifies the Solicitor General's authority to represent public officials and the limits of court jurisdiction over customs seizures.
Customs Jurisdiction Prevails Challenging Seizure AND Forfeiture Powers OF THE Bureau OF Customs
Landmark ruling clarifies that RTCs cannot interfere with Bureau of Customs seizure and forfeiture proceedings, even if the warrant appears defective.