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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State Immunity and Construction Disputes: PTRI v. E.A. Ramirez Construction
The Supreme Court clarifies when state agencies can be sued and why construction disputes must go to the CIAC.
State Immunity vs Private Rights: Balancing Public Use and Just Compensation
When government agencies take private property without expropriation, state immunity cannot block claims for just compensation and recovery of possession.
Government Liability for Lost Goods: Waivers of State Immunity in Philippine Customs Law
When can the Bureau of Customs be held liable for seized goods that disappear while in its custody? The Supreme Court explains the limits of state immunity.
Judicial Ethics and Public Trust: When Government Cannot Hide Behind State Immunity
Supreme Court ruling on state immunity, quantum meruit, and why government contractors deserve payment for completed public works.
Suing the Government: Understanding State Immunity in the Philippines
A pharmaceutical company's bid dispute clarifies when government officials can be sued despite state immunity.
Custodia Legis and State Immunity Protect DENR Seizures of Timber-Laden Vehicles
When DENR seizes vehicles for illegal timber, they enter custodia legis and cannot be replevied; suits against DENR officers are suits against the State.
State Immunity vs Personal Liability: Defining the Limits of Official Authority
The Supreme Court clarifies when public officials can be sued personally despite state immunity, using the Lansang v. Court of Appeals case.