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.
Public Purpose in Government Loans to Private Entities: The Bawasanta Case
When can local governments lend public funds to private entities? The Supreme Court clarifies the public purpose rule in Bawasanta v. People.
Malversation and Falsification: What the Cabarios Acquittal Means for Public Officials
The Supreme Court's Cabarios ruling clarifies the proof needed to convict public officials of malversation and falsification of public documents.
When Can a Governor Contract Without Board Approval? Key COA Ruling
A governor must secure sanggunian approval for contracts unless a specific appropriation covers the project. Learn the rules from a 2016 COA case.
Counsel's Negligence and Due Process: When Can a Client Reopen a Case
When a lawyer's mistake hurts a client's case, can the case be reopened? The Supreme Court explains the limits of due process and counsel negligence.
Quarrying Rights: Local Permits Prevail Despite National Authorization
Philippine Supreme Court rules that a national quarry permit does not override local government requirements like the governor's permit.
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.
Quorum Quandaries: When Does a Presiding Officer Count in Local Governance
The Supreme Court clarifies when a vice-mayor counts for quorum in local sanggunian sessions under the Local Government Code.
Municipal Boundaries Law Prevails Over Inconsistent Interpretation
Supreme Court rules that a municipality's boundaries are fixed by its charter law, and only Congress may alter them.
Barangay Official Removal: Due Process and Immediate Execution Under the Local Government Code
Learn how the Supreme Court clarified that decisions removing barangay officials are immediately executory, despite the right to appeal.
Exhaustion of Administrative Remedies: A Prerequisite Before Court Action
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on why exhaustion of administrative remedies and motion for reconsideration are mandatory before judicial recourse.
Reelection Does Not Erase Criminal Liability for Prior Misconduct
Philippine Supreme Court ruling that reelection condones only administrative liability, not criminal charges under the Anti-Graft law.
Due Process in Administrative Cases: Formal Hearings Are Mandatory for Elected Officials
The Supreme Court rules that administrative cases against elected officials require formal hearings, not just position papers, to satisfy due process.
Condonation Doctrine: Can Re-Elected Officials Be Disciplined for Prior Misconduct
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on whether re-election condones prior administrative misconduct of local elective officials.
Filling Vacancies in Local Government: A Guide to Appointments in the Philippines
Who appoints replacements for vacant local council seats? The Supreme Court clarifies the rules under the Local Government Code.