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.
Forest Charges and Tax Refunds: Jurisdiction and Prescription in Philippine Tax Law
A 2019 Supreme Court ruling clarifies that forest charges are internal revenue taxes, so refund claims must go to the CIR within two years.
Presidential Warranties vs. State Sovereignty: The PICOP Timber License Case
The Supreme Court ruled presidential warranties on timber licenses are not contracts, and state sovereignty over natural resources prevails.
Mining Rights and State Control: The Limits of Exploration Permits in the Philippines
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on exploration permits, vested rights, and state control over mineral reservations under the Mining Act.
Mining vs Forestry Rights: When Timber Licenses Don't Block Mining Operations
Philippine Supreme Court clarifies that timber license holders cannot block mining applications, explaining consent vs notice rules under the Mining Act.
Timber License vs Contract: DENR Authority Over Forest Resources
Supreme Court ruling on whether a timber license agreement and presidential warranty create vested rights against DENR's regulatory authority over forest resources.
Custodial Rights Under Forest Management Agreements and Confiscated Resources
Philippine Supreme Court ruling on who holds custody of confiscated forest products and conveyances under IFMA and DENR deputization.
Timber License Boundary Disputes: Why Accurate Surveys Are Non-Negotiable
A Supreme Court ruling on timber license boundary disputes shows why precise surveys and strict compliance with agreements are critical for logging companies.
Timber License Agreements and Laches: Lessons from C & M Timber v. Alcala
The Supreme Court clarifies laches, policy shifts, and the revocable nature of timber licenses in C & M Timber v. Alcala.