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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Ultra Vires Acts and Contract Validity: The SSS Loan Case Explained
When government agencies exceed their powers, contracts may be void. The Supreme Court explains ultra vires acts and their impact on Philippine contracts.
Currency Exchange Rates in Philippine Contracts: Avoiding Disputes and Ensuring Fair Payment
How Philippine courts determine the applicable exchange rate when contracts lack clear currency terms, and lessons from a Supreme Court ruling.
Parol Evidence Rule in Philippine Contracts: When Verbal Agreements Cannot Alter Written Terms
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies when the parol evidence rule applies and why subsequent verbal agreements to modify written contracts require credible proof.
Venue Stipulations in Philippine Contracts: When a Chosen Court Isn't Exclusive
A Supreme Court ruling clarifies when contract venue clauses are binding and exclusive, and when they merely add another option for filing suit.
Exclusivity Clauses in Philippine Contracts: When Are They Valid?
Exclusivity clauses are not automatically invalid restraints of trade in the Philippines. They are enforceable when reasonable and tied to legitimate business interests.
Navigating Joint Obligations: How to Avoid Overpayment Pitfalls in Philippine Contracts
Learn how Philippine law treats joint obligations and how to avoid overpayment risks when dealing with multiple debtors or creditors.
Meeting of Minds in Property Sales: Why Price Agreement Is Key in Philippine Contracts
Philippine contract law requires a meeting of minds on price for property sales. Learn from a Supreme Court ruling on consent and judicial ethics.
Third-Party Rights in Philippine Contracts: When Can You Enforce an Agreement You Didn’t Sign?
Philippine law generally limits contract enforcement to parties, their assigns, and heirs. Learn the exception under stipulation pour autrui.
Meeting of Minds: Why Genuine Agreement Is Key to Valid Philippine Contracts
Philippine law requires a genuine meeting of minds for a valid contract. Learn how consent is formed and what happens when it is absent.
Extraordinary Inflation and Philippine Contracts: When Can You Adjust Rental Rates
Philippine law allows rent adjustments for extraordinary inflation, but courts rarely grant them. Learn the rules from a Supreme Court case.
Condition Precedent in Philippine Contracts: Ensuring Clear Title Before Purchase
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on when a buyer's obligation to purchase depends on the seller's prior compliance with a condition precedent.