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.
Proving Cargo Damage Claims: Evidence Rules and Res Ipsa Loquitur
The Supreme Court clarifies the evidence needed to prove cargo damage claims and when res ipsa loquitur applies.
When a Surety Bond Must Be Honored: Cellpage v. Solid Guaranty Explained
The Supreme Court clarifies when a surety is liable despite no written principal contract, and how bank errors affect obligations.
Proving Debt With Delivery Receipts: Preponderance of Evidence in Commercial Cases
Learn how delivery receipts and bills of lading can prove unpaid commercial debts under the preponderance of evidence rule.
Verbal Contracts and Implied Ratification: Upholding Obligations in Broiler Chick Growing Agreements
The Supreme Court rules that verbal contracts bind parties even without a written agreement, and corporations may impliedly ratify unauthorized acts.
Voluntary Appearance and Proper Service of Summons in Philippine Courts
Learn when a defendant's voluntary appearance cures defective summons and why improper service alone does not warrant dismissal.
Supreme Court: A Signed Check Creates a Presumption of Debt Even Without Written Contract
The Supreme Court rules that a signed, dishonored check is enough to prove an obligation, even without a written contract or delivery receipts.
Construction Contracts Default Rules and Unjust Enrichment in Equipment Leases
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies default rules on minimum contract amounts, quantum meruit, and unjust enrichment in construction equipment lease disputes.
Constructive Dismissal: When Cutting Work Hours Violates Employee Rights
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on when reducing work hours becomes constructive dismissal, and what employers must prove to justify it.
Unproven Claims When Government Contracts Lack Evidence Of Delivery
Supreme Court affirms COA denial of P63M textbook claim for lack of proof of delivery and appropriation.
Breach of Trust Defining Qualified Theft in Philippine Law
The Supreme Court clarifies the elements of qualified theft, emphasizing grave abuse of confidence as the distinguishing factor in criminal cases.
Proving Delivery and Payment in a Contract of Sale: Lessons from Asian Construction v. Mendoza
A seller need not attach invoices to a complaint, but must prove delivery. Learn the rules from a 2012 Supreme Court ruling.
Proving Actual Damages: The Standard for Compensation in Philippine Contract Law
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies the strict standard for proving actual damages in contract disputes, requiring clear and convincing documentary evidence.
Upholding Contractual Obligations: Enforceability of Sales Invoices Despite Claims of Discrepancies
Supreme Court affirms that signed sales invoices are binding evidence of delivery and payment obligations, even when a buyer later claims short deliveries.
When Does the Clock Start? Prescription Periods for Hidden Contract Breaches in the Philippines
Philippine Supreme Court ruling clarifies when the prescriptive period begins for hidden breaches of contract, protecting buyers who rely on seller representations.
Timely Notice IS KEY Understanding Carrier Liability IN Damaged Goods Claims Under THE Code OF Commerce
When cargo arrives damaged, the clock starts ticking. Learn how Article 366 of the Code of Commerce can bar a claim entirely if notice is late.
Extraordinary Diligence in Cargo Delivery: Common Carrier Responsibilities and Liabilities
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies common carrier extraordinary diligence standards in cargo delivery disputes, balancing shipper protections with carrier defenses.
Documentary Evidence vs Verbal Agreements: Why Written Contracts Prevail in Philippine Courts
When a verbal claim of discount conflicts with written invoices, Philippine courts rely on documentary evidence. Learn from a Supreme Court ruling.
Challenging Compromise Judgments Protecting Third Party Rights IN Philippine Courts
A look at how Philippine courts treat assignments of delivery receipts, agency claims, and compensation in sugar sale disputes.
Understanding Illegal Logging and Timber Possession Laws in the Philippines
The Supreme Court clarifies that possessing lumber without legal documents is a crime under the Revised Forestry Code, explaining key rules on seizure and confiscation.