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.
When Can a City Demand Access to Private Property? The Caloocan Case
The Supreme Court clarifies when local governments may demand access to private roads, balancing public service duties against property rights.
Homeowners Rights vs Church Construction: Open Space Donation Validity
Supreme Court rules on open space donations in subdivisions, homeowners association rights, and church construction in Casa Milan case.
Private Roads and Public Use: When a Local Ordinance Cannot Convert Private Property
A local ordinance cannot convert a private road into public property without donation, purchase, or expropriation. The Supreme Court explains.
Public Use Prevails Over Private Claims in Road Right-of-Way Dispute
Supreme Court rules that road rights-of-way are public dominion property, and private claimants cannot demand just compensation for land never validly acquired.
Extrinsic Fraud and Road Lots: When Final Judgments in Property Disputes Stand
The Supreme Court clarifies when extrinsic fraud justifies annulling a final judgment in property disputes, using a road lots redemption case.
Public Space vs Private Gain: When Loan Agreements Undermine Public Land Rights
Supreme Court rules loans secured by public plaza are void; public dominion property cannot be collateralized for commercial ventures.
Accretion vs. Dried Riverbeds: Who Owns the Land in the Philippines?
The Supreme Court clarifies that land formed by a dried-up riverbed belongs to the State, not adjacent owners. Learn the rules on accretion and land registration.
Clerk of Court Liability for Lost Evidence: Custody Duties Explained
When a clerk of court loses evidence in his custody, the Supreme Court clarifies administrative liability for unauthorized transfers.
Reversion of Fraudulent Land Titles: The State's Right to Reclaim Public Property
The Supreme Court affirms the State's power to revert fraudulently acquired public land, even after the one-year indefeasibility period.
Misappropriation vs Private Property: Understanding Malversation in Philippine Law
The Supreme Court clarifies that malversation requires public property. A mayor's custody of a private gun is not malversation.
Broadcasting Public Service: Understanding the Government's Right to Comelec Time
The Supreme Court upheld Section 92 of the Omnibus Election Code, requiring broadcast stations to give free air time to the COMELEC during elections.