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Title	IDs & Reference #s	Background	Primary Holding	Subject Matter
Commissioner of Internal Revenue vs. PLDT (15th December 2005)	AK383011 478 SCRA 61 , 514 Phil. 255 , G.R. No. 140230	PLDT sought a tax refund/credit for indirect taxes paid on imported equipment, citing Section 12 of RA 7082. The BIR and lower courts disagreed on whether the franchise’s “in lieu of all taxes” clause covered indirect taxes.	PLDT’s “in lieu of all taxes” franchise clause exempts only direct taxes on its franchise/earnings, not indirect taxes like VAT; however, advance sales and compensating taxes collected during 1992–1994 were erroneous and refundable.	Statutory Construction
Agulto vs. Tecson (29th November 2005)	AK349241 476 SCRA 395 , 512 Phil. 760 , G.R. No. 145276	Respondent William Z. Tecson filed an action for damages against petitioners Rolando Agulto, Maxima Agulto, Cecille Tenorio, and Maribel Mallari in the Regional Trial Court (RTC) of Quezon City, alleging malicious prosecution.	Service of notice of pre-trial on the counsel of record (or on the party if they have no counsel) is mandatory under Section 3, Rule 18 of the 1997 Rules of Civil Procedure; failure to serve such notice renders the pre-trial and all subsequent proceedings null and void for violating the party's right to due process, and constitutes grave abuse of discretion correctible by certiorari.	Civil Procedure I Pre-trial
Pimentel, Jr. vs. Exec. Secretary Ermita (13th October 2005)	AK992362 509 Phil. 567 , G.R. No. 164978	The case arose after President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo appointed several individuals as acting secretaries of various executive departments in August 2004, while the 13th Congress was in its regular session and the Commission on Appointments had already been constituted. Petitioners, who are members of the Senate, questioned the legality of these appointments, arguing they bypassed the confirmation process required by the Constitution.	The President of the Philippines has the constitutional and statutory power to appoint department secretaries in an acting capacity without the consent of the Commission on Appointments, even while Congress is in session, as such appointments are temporary measures to fill vacancies and ensure the continuous performance of executive functions.	Constitutional Law I
Guingguing vs. Court of Appeals (30th September 2005)	AK025163 508 Phil. 193 , G.R. No. 128959	The case arose from a criminal complaint for libel filed by Cirse "Choy" Torralba, a broadcast journalist with programs on radio stations DYLA and DYFX in Cebu City, which aired over a large portion of the Visayas and Mindanao. The complaint was against Segundo Lim, who paid for an advertisement, and Ciriaco "Boy" Guingguing, the editor-publisher of the Sunday Post, a weekly newspaper circulated in Bohol, Visayas, and Mindanao, where the advertisement was published.	A publication containing truthful information about criminal cases filed against a public figure, even if it tends to cause dishonor or discredit, is not libelous if it was not published with actual malice—that is, with knowledge of its falsity or with reckless disregard of whether it was false or not—as such publication falls within the bounds of constitutionally protected freedom of speech and expression concerning matters of public interest.	Constitutional Law II Freedom of Expression
Abakada Guro Party List vs. Ermita (1st September 2005)	AK134713 469 SCRA 14 , 506 Phil. 1 , G.R. No. 168056 , G.R. No. 168207 , G.R. No. 168461 , G.R. No. 168463 , G.R. No. 168730	The enactment of Republic Act No. 9337 stemmed from the government's need to address a mounting budget deficit and generate significant revenue to stabilize the country's fiscal situation. The law aimed to restructure the Value-Added Tax (VAT) system by expanding its base, increasing the rate (with a standby authority for the President to raise it further), and introducing measures intended to improve tax administration and collection efficiency as part of a broader fiscal reform agenda.	Republic Act No. 9337 is constitutional; its enactment did not violate the procedural requirements of the Constitution regarding the origination of revenue bills or the amendment process, and its substantive provisions, including the President's standby authority to increase the VAT rate and the limitations on input tax credits, do not constitute undue delegation of legislative power, nor do they violate the due process, equal protection, uniformity, or progressivity clauses of the Constitution.	Constitutional Law I Philosophy of Law Statutory Construction
Misamis Occidental II Cooperative, Inc. vs. David (25th August 2005)	AK092221 468 SCRA 63 , 505 Phil. 181 , G.R. No. 129928	Respondent Virgilio S. David, a supplier of electrical hardware, entered into a transaction with petitioner Misamis Occidental II Electric Cooperative, Inc. (MOELCI II) concerning the supply of a 10 MVA Power Transformer. A dispute arose regarding the nature of the document governing the transaction and MOELCI II's alleged failure to pay the agreed price, leading David to file a suit for specific performance and damages.	A preliminary hearing on affirmative defenses pleaded in an answer, as provided under Section 5, Rule 16 of the old Rules of Court (now Section 6, Rule 16 of the 1997 Rules), is not mandatory but rests upon the sound discretion of the trial court; its denial is not correctible by certiorari absent grave abuse of discretion amounting to lack or excess of jurisdiction.	Civil Procedure I Motion
Coconut Oil Refiners Association, Inc. vs. Torres (29th July 2005)	AK371894 465 SCRA 47 , 503 Phil. 42 , G.R. No. 132527	Republic Act No. 7227 (Bases Conversion and Development Act of 1992) aimed to convert former U.S. military bases into productive economic zones to promote development in Central Luzon. It created the Subic Special Economic Zone (SSEZ) with tax incentives but did not explicitly extend these privileges to other zones like Clark. Several executive issuances, including Executive Orders No. 80 and 97-A, sought to implement these incentives in both SSEZ and CSEZ, prompting legal challenges from businesses outside these zones.	The Supreme Court ruled that portions of Executive Order No. 97-A and related issuances were unconstitutional for allowing tax-free removal of goods from the Subic Special Economic Zone to other parts of the Philippines and extending incentives to Clark Special Economic Zone without statutory basis.	Statutory Construction
Sen. Pimentel, Jr. vs. Office of the Executive Secretary (6th July 2005)	AK539131 501 Phil. 303 , G.R. No. 158088	The Philippines, through its Charge d' Affaires, signed the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC) on December 28, 2000. The Rome Statute establishes the ICC to prosecute individuals for genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, and the crime of aggression, and its provisions require ratification, acceptance, or approval by signatory states for it to become binding. Petitioners, concerned with human rights and the enforcement of international criminal law, urged the executive department to transmit the signed Statute to the Senate for its concurrence to complete the ratification process.	The President of the Philippines possesses the discretionary power to ratify treaties, including the decision of whether and when to submit a signed treaty to the Senate for concurrence; this act is not a ministerial duty compellable by a writ of mandamus.	Constitutional Law I
Herrera vs. Alba (15th June 2005)	AK188258 460 SCRA 197 , 499 Phil. 185 , G.R. No. 148220	DNA paternity testing is a valid and admissible method to establish filiation in paternity suits, provided that proper procedures are followed, and it does not violate the right against self-incrimination.	DNA paternity testing is a valid and admissible method to establish filiation in paternity suits, provided that proper procedures are followed, and it does not violate the right against self-incrimination.	Philosophy of Law
Portic vs. Cristobal (22nd April 2005)	AK058410 456 SCRA 577 , 496 Phil. 456 , G.R. No. 156171	Spouses Portic sold property to Anastacia Cristobal under an agreement that included conditions about payment of a balance. A dispute arose when Cristobal registered the title in her name despite allegedly not fully paying the balance, and Spouses Portic sought to quiet title, claiming the sale was void due to non-payment.	The Supreme Court held that the agreement was a contract to sell, and because the vendee failed to fully pay the purchase price, ownership of the property did not transfer to her. Consequently, the action for quieting of title filed by the vendors was deemed proper and not prescribed as they remained in possession and legal owners of the property.	Property and Land Law
National Housing Authority vs. Court of Appeals (13th April 2005)	AK266478 456 SCRA 17 , 495 Phil. 693 , G.R. NO. 148830	President Marcos issued Proclamation No. 481 reserving a 120-hectare NHA-owned land for the National Government Center (NGC). Later, Proclamation No. 1670 segregated seven hectares from the NGC and granted MSBF usufructuary rights over it, to be determined by future survey. MSBF occupied an area exceeding seven hectares and leased a portion to BGC. NHA, under Memorandum Order No. 127 which revoked the reserved status of the remaining 50 hectares, sought to demolish BGC's facilities, leading BGC to file for injunction.	The Supreme Court set aside the Court of Appeals' decision and remanded the case to the trial court to order a joint survey by NHA and MSBF to determine the precise metes and bounds of the seven-hectare usufruct granted to MSBF, ensuring contiguity and inclusion of MSBF's major existing facilities as much as possible within that area, while also ensuring MSBF respects the seven-hectare limit and vacates any area exceeding it.	Property and Land Law
City of Manila vs. Laguio, Jr. (12th April 2005)	AK416215 455 SCRA 308 , 495 Phil. 289 , G.R. No. 118127	Malate Tourist Development Corporation (MTDC) questioned the validity of Ordinance No. 7783, which included motels and inns among the prohibited establishments in the Ermita-Malate area, arguing it was unconstitutional and beyond the City Council's powers.	Ordinance No. 7783 is an invalid exercise of police power because it violates the constitutional rights to due process and equal protection and exceeds the regulatory powers granted to the City of Manila under the Local Government Code.	Constitutional Law II Statutory Construction Police Power
Soria vs. Desierto (31st January 2005)	AK603974 450 SCRA 339 , 490 Phil. 749 , G.R. Nos. 153524-25	The Supreme Court upheld the time-honored practice of non-interference in preliminary investigations conducted by prosecutory bodies absent grave abuse of discretion, affirming that Sundays, holidays, and election days are excluded in computing the periods prescribed in Article 125 of the Revised Penal Code.		Criminal Law II
Civil Service Commission vs. Belagan (19th October 2004)	AK604656 440 SCRA 578 , 483 Phil. 601 , G.R. No. 132164	Dr. Allyson Belagan, a Superintendent of DECS in Baguio City, was accused of sexual harassment by Magdalena Gapuz, a private school teacher, and Ligaya Annawi, a public school teacher. Gapuz alleged that Belagan kissed her during an inspection of her school premises, while Annawi accused him of multiple instances of sexual harassment and other administrative malfeasances. The DECS conducted an investigation and found Belagan guilty, leading to his dismissal. The CSC affirmed the DECS decision regarding Gapuz but dismissed Annawi's complaint. The Court of Appeals reversed the CSC's decision, prompting the CSC to appeal to the Supreme Court.	The Supreme Court held that the Civil Service Commission's findings were supported by substantial evidence, and while Belagan was guilty of grave misconduct, his long service and unblemished record warranted a modified penalty of one-year suspension without pay instead of dismissal.	Philosophy of Law
Duncan Association of Detailman-PTGWO vs. Glaxo Wellcome Philippines, Inc (17th September 2004)	AK533184 481 Phil. 687 , G.R. No. 162994	The case arose from the highly competitive pharmaceutical industry where companies like Glaxo Wellcome Philippines, Inc. (Glaxo) and Astra Pharmaceuticals (Astra) are direct competitors. Glaxo implemented a policy, reflected in its employment contracts and Employee Code of Conduct, requiring employees to disclose relationships with employees of competitor companies and, if a conflict of interest is perceived, to explore solutions including transfer or resignation. This policy was intended to safeguard Glaxo's trade secrets, marketing strategies, and other confidential information.	A company policy prohibiting employees from marrying employees of competitor companies, aimed at preventing conflicts of interest and protecting trade secrets, is a valid exercise of management prerogative and does not violate the equal protection clause or the right to marry, provided it is reasonable and applied impartially.	Obligations and Contracts
Baloloy vs. Hular (9th September 2004)	AK688555 438 SCRA 80 , 481 Phil. 398 , G.R. No. 157767	Alfredo Hular claimed ownership of land originally owned by his father, Astrologo Hular, part of Lot No. 3347. He alleged that Iluminado Baloloy fraudulently secured a Free Patent and OCT over Lot No. 3353, which included a portion of his father's land (later found to be 1,405 square meters, not 287 sqm as initially thought). Hular sought to quiet title, nullify the Baloloy's OCT, and reconveyance, citing prior ownership and acquisitive prescription. Baloloys, heirs of Iluminado, argued their title's sanctity and Hular's lack of cause of action.	The petition is granted. The decisions of the Court of Appeals and the Regional Trial Court are reversed and set aside. The complaint of the respondent is dismissed. The respondent failed to implead indispensable parties and failed to prove his claim of ownership by preponderance of evidence sufficient to overcome the petitioners' Torrens title.	Property and Land Law
People vs. Comadre (8th June 2004)	AK679022 431 SCRA 366 , 475 PHIL. 293 , G.R. No. 153559	The case arose from an incident where victims were having a drinking session on the terrace of a house when the appellants allegedly stopped in front, and one of them, Antonio Comadre, lobbed a hand grenade onto the roof, which subsequently exploded, causing death and injuries.	A single act, such as detonating a hand grenade, that results in death (Murder) and injuries (Attempted Murder) constitutes a complex crime under Article 48 of the RPC, punishable with the penalty for the most serious crime (Murder) applied in its maximum period; when both treachery and explosion attend the killing, explosion qualifies the crime to Murder if it was the principal means employed, while treachery is considered a generic aggravating circumstance. Conspiracy must be proven by positive acts of cooperation beyond mere presence or relationship, and absent such proof, co-accused cannot be held liable.	Criminal Law II Murder
Ong vs. Mazo (4th June 2004)	AK982901 431 SCRA 56 , 474 Phil. 807 , G.R. No. 145542	The case originated from a vehicular accident where a passenger bus owned by petitioner Elena S. Ong and driven by Iluminado J. Caramoan allegedly bumped a jeep owned and driven by respondent Elvira C. Lanuevo, who had respondent Charito A. Tomilloso as a passenger. This incident led respondents Lanuevo and Tomilloso to file a complaint for damages against Ong and Caramoan.	A petition for certiorari under Rule 65 filed after the effectivity of A.M. No. 00-2-03-SC benefits from the fresh 60-day period counted from the notice of denial of the motion for reconsideration, even if the original period under the prior rule (Circular No. 39-98) had partially lapsed; furthermore, denying a party the use of written interrogatories based on the outdated notion that it constitutes a "fishing expedition" is a grave abuse of discretion correctible by certiorari, as modes of discovery are liberally granted to enable parties to obtain relevant facts and expedite proceedings.	Civil Procedure I Discovery
Tecson vs. Commission on Elections (3rd March 2004)	AK663881 424 SCRA 277 , 468 Phil. 421 , G.R. No. 161434 , G.R. No. 161634 , G.R. No. 161824	The cases arose in the lead-up to the May 10, 2004 national elections, following the filing of a certificate of candidacy for President by respondent Ronald Allan Kelley Poe, also known as Fernando Poe, Jr. (FPJ), wherein he declared himself a natural-born Filipino citizen.	The Supreme Court's jurisdiction as the sole judge of presidential election contests under Article VII, Section 4 of the 1987 Constitution is limited to post-election disputes and cannot be invoked to rule on a candidate's qualifications before the election; challenges to a candidate's qualifications based on alleged material misrepresentation in the certificate of candidacy fall under the COMELEC's jurisdiction pursuant to Section 78 of the Omnibus Election Code, reviewable by the Supreme Court via certiorari, where the petitioner must prove not just falsity but deliberate misrepresentation.	Constitutional Law I Philosophy of Law
Tolentino vs. Commission on Elections (21st January 2004)	AK379108 420 SCRA 438 , 465 Phil. 385 , G.R. No. 148334	Following the appointment of Senator Teofisto Guingona as Vice-President in 2001, a Senate vacancy arose. The Senate passed a resolution calling for a special election to fill the vacancy, to be held simultaneously with the May 14, 2001, regular elections. The 13th placer in the senatorial race would serve the unexpired term. Petitioners challenged the validity of the special election, arguing that COMELEC failed to comply with legal requirements.	The Supreme Court held that the special election to fill the Senate vacancy was validly held, and COMELEC’s failure to give formal notice did not invalidate the election. The petition was dismissed for lack of merit.	Philosophy of Law
People vs. Suzuki (23rd October 2003)	AK996295 414 SCRA 43 , G.R. No. 120670	The case stems from an airport security check at Bacolod Airport where the defendant, a Japanese national, was found in possession of marijuana concealed in a box of "Bongbong's piaya." The case raises important questions about the constitutionality of airport security searches and the rights of individuals against unreasonable searches and seizures.	The Supreme Court held that routine airport security procedures constitute a valid exception to the constitutional protection against warrantless searches and seizures. Persons may lose this protection due to reduced privacy expectations associated with air travel. When these procedures reveal contraband, and the accused is caught in flagrante delicto, both the warrantless search and subsequent arrest are valid. However, in imposing penalties for drug possession, courts must apply the lesser of two indivisible penalties when there are no aggravating or mitigating circumstances.	Criminal Law II
Allied Domecq Phil., Inc. vs. Villon (12th August 2003)	AK813262 439 SCRA 667 , 482 Phil. 894 , G.R. No. 156264	Petitioner ADPI held an exclusive distributorship agreement for "Fundador" brandy in the Philippines, granted by the Spanish manufacturer Pedro Domecq, S.A. ADPI obtained the necessary Certificate of Registration from the Bureau of Food and Drugs (BFAD) for the product. Subsequently, the Bureau of Customs issued a circular requiring importers of "Fundador" brandy to present a valid BFAD certificate. Respondent Clark Liberty, a duty-free shop in the Clark Special Economic Zone (CSEZ), imported a significant quantity of "Fundador" brandy without such a certificate.	The Supreme Court held that pursuant to Section 21 of Republic Act No. 7227, only the Supreme Court has the jurisdiction to issue a restraining order or preliminary injunction against the implementation of projects for the conversion of former military reservations into alternative productive uses, which includes the operations of duly registered enterprises within the Clark Special Economic Zone like respondent Clark Liberty.	Civil Procedure I
Senate Blue Ribbon Committee vs. Majaducon (29th July 2003)	AK802239 455 Phil. 61 , G.R. No. 136760 , G.R. NO. 138378	The case arose from two Senate Resolutions: No. 157, directing an inquiry into alleged coup d'etat plans related to probing AFP fund irregularities, and No. 160, directing an inquiry into alleged mismanagement of AFP-Retirement and Separation Benefits System (AFP-RSBS) funds. These resolutions were referred to the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee and the Committee on National Defense and Security for investigation.	A Regional Trial Court has no jurisdiction to prohibit the Senate or its committees from conducting inquiries in aid of legislation, as this would violate the principle of separation of powers; furthermore, the use of terms like "gross ignorance of the law" in pleadings challenging a judge's order, without malice, does not automatically constitute indirect contempt, especially when such terms are descriptive of alleged errors in applying fundamental legal principles.	Constitutional Law I
Republic vs. Sandiganbayan (21st July 2003)	AK422271 407 SCRA 10 , 454 Phil. 504 , G.R. No. 104768	In the aftermath of the 1986 EDSA Revolution, President Corazon Aquino established the PCGG to spearhead the recovery of assets unlawfully acquired during the Marcos regime. The AFP Anti-Graft Board, under the PCGG's directive, initiated an inquiry into the financial dealings of Major General Ramas, uncovering properties and assets allegedly disproportionate to his lawful income. The investigation extended to Elizabeth Dimaano, purportedly Ramas' mistress, in whose possession substantial monetary sums and military-grade equipment were discovered. This led to a forfeiture petition grounded on the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act and the Forfeiture Law (RA No. 1379).	The Supreme Court adjudicated that the PCGG lacked the requisite jurisdiction to investigate and prosecute Major General Ramas and Elizabeth Dimaano, as Ramas did not meet the definitional criteria of a "subordinate" of former President Ferdinand Marcos under Executive Orders Nos. 1, 2, 14, and 14-A. The Court affirmed that such jurisdiction rightly resides with the Office of the Ombudsman and the Office of the Solicitor General.	Philosophy of Law
Commissioner of Internal Revenue vs. Michel J. Lhuillier Pawnshop, Inc (15th July 2003)	AK922816 406 SCRA 178 , 453 Phil. 1043 , G.R. No. 150947	The BIR sought to impose a 5% lending investor’s tax on pawnshops through administrative issuances (RMO No. 15-91 and RMC No. 43-91). Michel J. Lhuillier Pawnshop challenged the assessment, arguing pawnshops were distinct from lending investors and the BIR overstepped its rulemaking authority.	Pawnshops are excluded from the definition of “lending investors” under Section 116 of the NIRC, rendering BIR’s assessment for deficiency percentage tax void.	Statutory Construction
Lawrence vs. Texas (26th June 2003)	AK906927 539 U.S. 558	The case arose within the legal and social context of state laws criminalizing sodomy, often referred to as "crimes against nature" or "deviate sexual intercourse." Seventeen years prior, in _Bowers v. Hardwick_, the Supreme Court had upheld a Georgia sodomy law applied to homosexual conduct, finding no fundamental right to engage in such activity. Since _Bowers_, legal and social perspectives continued to evolve, with many states repealing their sodomy laws or ceasing enforcement against private, consensual adult conduct, and subsequent Court decisions like _Romer v. Evans_ casting doubt on laws motivated by animus towards homosexuals.	A Texas statute making it a crime for two persons of the same sex to engage in certain intimate sexual conduct violates the Due Process Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment, as the liberty protected by the Constitution includes the right for adults to engage in private, consensual homosexual activity without government intervention; consequently, _Bowers v. Hardwick_, 478 U.S. 186, is overruled.	Constitutional Law II Equal Protection
Ang Bagong Bayani-OFW Labor Party vs. COMELEC (25th June 2003)	AK413799 452 Phil. 899 , G.R. No. 147589 , G.R. No. 147613	The case emerged from the complexities of the 2001 party-list elections, following the Supreme Court's June 26, 2001 Decision that established eight-point guidelines for party-list qualification. Numerous party-list groups participated, leading to disputes over qualification, the computation of votes, the determination of the two-percent threshold, and the allocation of seats, necessitating further clarification from the Court on how to apply the party-list law (RA 7941) and its previous rulings.	In party-list elections, votes cast for organizations that are subsequently disqualified for failing to meet the statutory and jurisprudential requirements must be deducted from the "total votes cast for the party-list system" for the purpose of determining the two-percent threshold required to win a seat in the House of Representatives, as mandated by Section 10 of RA 7941, which states that votes for those "not entitled to be voted for shall not be counted."	Constitutional Law I
Buena Obra vs. Social Security System (9th April 2003)	AK528677 401 SCRA206 , 449 Phil. 200 , G.R. No. 147745	Juanito Buena Obra, a dump truck driver for 24 years, died of a heart attack at work in 1988. His widow filed for SSS death benefits but learned about EC benefits a decade later. The SSS/ECC rejected her claim, alleging prescription and lack of work connection.	The Court held that (1) the claim was filed within a “reasonable time” due to the SSS’s failure to process her EC claim earlier, and (2) myocardial infarction was work-related under ECC Resolution No. 432 due to job strain.	Statutory Construction
Coronel vs. Constantino (7th February 2003)	AK326196 445 Phil. 97 , G.R. No. 121069	The subject property, consisting of two parcels of land (Cadastral Lots Nos. 5737 and 5738) in Sta. Monica, Hagonoy, Bulacan, was originally owned by Honoria Aguinaldo. Upon Honoria's death, one-half (1/2) of the property was inherited by petitioner Emilia Meking Vda. de Coronel together with her sons, petitioner Benjamin, Catalino, and Ceferino, all surnamed Coronel. The other half was inherited by respondents Florentino Constantino and Aurea Buensuceso. The dispute arose from the sale of the portion inherited by Emilia and her sons.	A sale by a co-owner of the entire co-owned property is valid only with respect to the seller's pro-indiviso share, and the sale of the shares of other co-owners without their authority or legal representation is unenforceable; mere silence or inaction of such other co-owners, without proof of their awareness of the unauthorized sale and a voluntary, knowing adoption of the act, does not constitute ratification.	Obligations and Contracts
Dadole vs. Commission on Audit (3rd December 2002)	AK714832 441 Phil. 537 , G.R. No. 125350	For several years, RTC and MTC judges in Mandaue City had been receiving monthly additional allowances from the city government through appropriation ordinances. In 1991, this amount was P1,500. In 1994, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) issued Local Budget Circular No. 55 (LBC 55), which limited such additional allowances from provinces and cities to P1,000.00 per month. This circular led to the Mandaue City Auditor issuing notices of disallowance for the amounts received by the petitioner judges in excess of P1,000 and requiring reimbursement.	Local Budget Circular No. 55, issued by the Department of Budget and Management, is null and void because it overstepped the President's power of general supervision over local government units by imposing a specific monetary limit on additional allowances not found in the enabling law (R.A. 7160), and because it was not published as required for administrative rules intended to enforce or implement existing law.	Constitutional Law I
Francisco vs. Herrera (21st November 2002)	AK748349 440 Phil. 841 , G.R. No. 139982	Eligio Herrera, Sr., the father of respondent Pastor Herrera, was the owner of two parcels of land located in Cainta, Rizal. In 1991, Eligio Sr. sold these properties to the petitioner, Julian Francisco, through two separate transactions. Subsequently, the children of Eligio Sr., including the respondent, contested these sales, primarily arguing that the agreed purchase price was grossly inadequate and, more significantly, that Eligio Sr. was suffering from senile dementia at the time of the sales, which allegedly rendered him incapable of giving valid consent to the contracts.	A contract entered into by a party whose capacity to consent is vitiated by senile dementia is not void ab initio but merely voidable; such a contract is susceptible to ratification, which can be implied through actions such as accepting and retaining the benefits of the contract, thereby rendering it perfectly valid.	Obligations and Contracts
Yau vs. Manila Banking Corporation (11th July 2002)	AK716089 384 SCRA 340 , 433 Phil. 701 , G.R. No. 126731 , G.R. No. 128623	Esteban Yau obtained a final judgment against Ricardo Silverio, Sr. from RTC Cebu. The only known asset of Silverio was a proprietary share in Manila Golf and Country Club. This share, however, was already subject to preliminary attachments obtained by Manilabank in separate collection cases against Silverio pending before RTC Makati. This created a conflict when Yau, after purchasing the share at the execution sale ordered by RTC Cebu, sought to have the title transferred to his name.	A court (RTC Cebu) cannot interfere with property under the custodia legis (custody of the law) of a co-equal court (RTC Makati) by ordering the cancellation and transfer of title of such property; however, a judgment creditor who purchases property subject to a prior attachment at an execution sale has a sufficient legal interest to intervene in the action where the attachment was issued to protect their rights.	Civil Procedure I Intervention
Matibag vs. Benipayo (2nd April 2002)	AK305174 429 Phil. 554 , G.R. No. 149036	The case arose following changes in the leadership of the Commission on Elections (COMELEC). Petitioner Ma. J. Angelina G. Matibag, who held a temporary appointment as Director IV of the COMELEC's Education and Information Department (EID), was reassigned to the Law Department by newly appointed ad interim COMELEC Chairman Alfredo L. Benipayo. This reassignment, coupled with the ad interim appointments and their subsequent renewals for Chairman Benipayo and Commissioners Borra and Tuason by President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, prompted Matibag to challenge the constitutionality and legality of these appointments and her reassignment, citing concerns over COMELEC's independence and alleged violations of constitutional prohibitions.	Ad interim appointments to the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) are permanent appointments that take effect immediately upon qualification and are not considered temporary or acting appointments prohibited by Article IX-C, Section 1(2) of the Constitution; furthermore, the renewal of such ad interim appointments when by-passed by the Commission on Appointments does not violate the constitutional prohibition on reappointment, as this prohibition applies only to appointees who have been previously confirmed by the Commission on Appointments and have served a term or part thereof.	Constitutional Law I
Commission on Audit of the Province of Cebu vs. Province of Cebu (29th November 2001)	AK875038 371 SCRA 196 , 422 Phil. 519 , G.R. No. 141386	The case arose from Notices of Suspension issued by the Commission on Audit (COA) to Cebu Province after it charged teacher salaries and scholarship expenses to its SEF. The province filed a petition for declaratory relief with the Regional Trial Court (RTC), which ruled in favor of Cebu Province. COA elevated the case to the Supreme Court.	The Supreme Court held that salaries and personnel-related benefits of teachers appointed for extension classes may be charged to the SEF, but college scholarship expenses cannot.	Statutory Construction
Estrada vs. Sandiganbayan (19th November 2001)	AK529893 369 SCRA 394 , 421 Phil. 290 , G.R. No. 148560	Petitioner Joseph Ejercito Estrada, the highest-ranking official to be prosecuted under RA 7080 (Plunder Law), faced charges before the Sandiganbayan for allegedly amassing ill-gotten wealth during his presidency. This case arose from his efforts to quash the Information against him by challenging the constitutionality of the Plunder Law itself, which defines and penalizes the crime of plunder.	Republic Act No. 7080, the Plunder Law, as amended by RA 7659, is constitutional and does not suffer from the vice of vagueness, nor does it violate the accused's rights to due process and to be informed of the nature and cause of the accusation. The law provides ascertainable standards and well-defined parameters for the crime of plunder.	Constitutional Law II Philosophy of Law Statutory Construction Freedom of Expression
Benedicto vs. Court of Appeals (4th September 2001)	AK713363 364 SCRA 334 , 416 Phil. 722 , G.R. No. 125359	The case arose from multiple criminal charges filed against Benedicto and Rivera for failing to report foreign exchange earnings as required by Central Bank Circular No. 960. The petitioners argued that their liability was extinguished due to the circular's repeal and other defenses such as prescription and immunity under a compromise agreement with the government.	The Supreme Court ruled that the repeal of Circular No. 960 did not extinguish petitioners' criminal liability as saving clauses preserved pending cases. It also held that jurisdiction was proper in the Regional Trial Court (RTC), and claims of prescription, exemption, and immunity were unmeritorious.	Statutory Construction
Estrada vs. Desierto (2nd March 2001)	AK430917 353 SCRA 452 , 406 Phil. 1 , G.R. Nos. 146710-15 , G.R. No. 146738	Joseph Estrada’s presidency began in 1998 with broad public support but was marred by corruption allegations, including his involvement in illegal gambling operations (jueteng). A series of political and public upheavals culminated in his impeachment trial, which was aborted after senators voted to suppress key evidence. Massive public protests followed, leading to the withdrawal of military and police support for Estrada and the ascension of Vice President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.	The Supreme Court held that Joseph Ejercito Estrada had effectively resigned as President of the Philippines on January 20, 2001, and that Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo had validly assumed the presidency.	Constitutional Law I
De Rama vs. Court of Appeals (28th February 2001)	AK337670 405 Phil. 531 , G.R. No. 131136	Upon assuming office as Mayor of Pagbilao, Quezon, petitioner Conrado L. de Rama sought to recall the appointments of fourteen municipal employees. These appointments were made by the outgoing mayor, Ma. Evelyn S. Abeja, in the period leading up to the end of her term and after the election of de Rama. The core of the dispute revolved around the petitioner's belief that these were "midnight appointments" and were therefore invalid, leading him to request their recall from the Civil Service Commission.	The constitutional prohibition against "midnight appointments" found in Article VII, Section 15 of the 1987 Constitution applies only to a President or Acting President and does not extend to appointments made by local elective officials. Furthermore, once an appointment is issued, accepted, and the appointee assumes office, they acquire a legal right to the position, protected by due process, and such appointment cannot be unilaterally revoked by the appointing authority or their successor without just cause and adherence to procedural requirements, with the Civil Service Commission having the authority to review and recall appointments only on specific grounds.	Constitutional Law I
Mirasol vs. Court of Appeals (1st February 2001)	AK360928 351 SCRA 44 , 403 Phil. 760 , G.R. No. 128448	The Mirasols, as sugarland owners, had their sugar production financed by PNB. P.D. No. 579 authorized PHILEX to purchase export sugar, with PNB financing the purchases. Disputes arose regarding the accounting of sugar sale proceeds, leading to litigation.	The Supreme Court affirmed the Court of Appeals' decision, finding that the trial court improperly ruled on the constitutionality of P.D. No. 579 without proper notice to the Solicitor General, that the doctrine of piercing the corporate veil does not apply, and that the dacion en pago and foreclosure were valid.	Constitutional Law II
Cruz vs. Secretaryof Environment and Natural Resources (6th December 2000)	AK614139 347 SCRA 128 , 400 Phil. 904 , G.R. No. 135385	The case was brought by legal scholars and constitutionalists who questioned whether indigenous groups could hold ownership rights over natural resources traditionally deemed as part of the State’s patrimony under the Regalian Doctrine. The petitioners sought a declaration of unconstitutionality for various provisions of the IPRA, arguing that they violated the 1987 Constitution’s provisions on State ownership of public lands and natural resources.	The Supreme Court dismissed the petition, ruling that the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act (IPRA) is constitutional by virtue of the tied vote (7-7). Because no majority ruling was reached, the law remained valid.	Philosophy of Law
Del Mar vs. Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (29th November 2000)	AK276548 346 SCRA 485 , 400 Phil. 307 , G.R. No. 138298 , G.R. No. 138982	PAGCOR began operating jai-alai in 1999 based on legal opinions from the DOJ, OSG, and OGCC. Petitioners contested this, alleging PAGCOR exceeded its franchise. The cases were consolidated due to overlapping constitutional and statutory issues.	PAGCOR’s franchise under PD 1869 only covers gambling casinos, not jai-alai. Its operation of jai-alai without a legislative franchise is illegal.	Statutory Construction
Bugatti vs. Court of Appeals (17th October 2000)	AK805416 397 Phil. 376 , G.R. No. 138113	The case arose from an action for recovery of possession and damages filed by respondent spouses Ben and Maria Baguilat against petitioner Emilio Bugatti. The dispute centered on an alleged oral agreement for Bugatti to lease a portion of the Baguilats' land, construct a building thereon (with costs to be offset by rent), and then pay a monthly rental, with the building eventually belonging to the Baguilats.	A contract of lease is perfected by the meeting of the minds of the parties upon the thing to be leased and the price certain; where essential terms such as the specific area to be leased, the cost of construction to be offset against rent, and the exact duration remain undetermined or disputed, no perfected contract exists, and a party who proceeds with construction despite objections and without a signed agreement is a builder in bad faith.	Obligations and Contracts
Veterans Federation Party vs. Commission on Elections (6th October 2000)	AK393743 396 Phil. 419 , G.R. No. 136781 , G.R. No. 136786 , G.R. No. 136795	The 1987 Constitution introduced the party-list system of representation in the House of Representatives to enable marginalized and underrepresented sectors to participate in lawmaking. Section 5, Article VI of the Constitution mandates that party-list representatives shall constitute twenty percent of the total number of representatives. Congress enacted R.A. No. 7941 (The Party-List System Act) to implement this constitutional provision, outlining the procedure for the election and allocation of seats for party-list representatives. The May 11, 1998 elections were the first time party-list representatives were elected under this system.	The allocation of seats for party-list representatives under R.A. No. 7941 must adhere to four inviolable parameters: (1) the twenty percent allocation of the total House membership for party-list representatives is a ceiling, not a mandatory number to be filled at all times; (2) the two percent threshold of total valid votes cast for the party-list system is a valid requirement for a party to qualify for a seat; (3) each qualified party is entitled to a maximum of three seats; and (4) additional seats for qualified parties must be computed based on proportional representation.	Constitutional Law I
People vs. Velasco (13th September 2000)	AK988299 340 SCRA 207 , 394 Phil. 517 , G.R. No. 127444	In San Ildefonso, Bulacan, a shooting incident resulted in the death of Alex Vinculado and serious injuries to his twin brother Levi and uncle Miguel Vinculado Jr. Honorato Galvez (town mayor) and Godofredo Diego (municipal employee) were charged with murder, frustrated murder, and illegal possession of firearms. After trial, Diego was found guilty while Galvez was acquitted. The government challenged the acquittal.	The Supreme Court dismissed the petition for certiorari, holding that an acquittal based on appreciation of evidence cannot be appealed by the government, as it would violate the constitutional protection against double jeopardy.	Philosophy of Law
Integrated Bar of the Philippines vs. Zamora (15th August 2000)	AK990550 338 SCRA 81 , G.R. No. 141284 , 392 Phil. 618	In response to an alarming increase in violent crimes such as robberies, kidnappings, and carnappings in Metro Manila, the President verbally ordered the PNP and the Philippine Marines to conduct joint visibility patrols for crime prevention and suppression. This directive was subsequently formalized through a Memorandum and implemented via Letter of Instruction 02/2000, establishing "Task Force Tulungan."	The President's exercise of the power to call out the armed forces to prevent or suppress lawless violence is a discretionary power vested by the Constitution, and while subject to judicial review for grave abuse of discretion, the Court will not substitute its judgment for the President's determination of the necessity for such action unless a clear showing of arbitrariness or lack of factual basis is established by the petitioner.	Constitutional Law I Constitutional Law II
International School Alliance of Educators vs. Quisumbing (1st June 2000)	AK585504 333 SCRA 13 , 388 Phil. 661 , G.R. No. 128845	International School, Inc., established under P.D. 732 primarily for dependents of foreign diplomatic personnel, hires both foreign and local teachers. It uses four tests (domicile, home economy, economic allegiance, hiring location/responsibility) to classify faculty as either "foreign-hires" or "local-hires." Foreign-hires received additional benefits (housing, transport, etc.) and a 25% higher salary, which the School justified based on alleged "dislocation" and "limited tenure" disadvantages faced by foreign-hires.	The point-of-hire classification cannot justify a disparity in salary rates between foreign-hired and locally-hired employees performing the same work under similar conditions, as this violates the fundamental principle of "equal pay for equal work" and constitutes discrimination contrary to public policy.	Constitutional Law II Equal Protection
Heirs of Alberto Suguitan vs. City of Mandaluyong (14th March 2000)	AK255645 328 SCRA 137 , 384 Phil. 676 , G.R. No. 135087	The City of Mandaluyong sought to expropriate Alberto Suguitan’s property for expanding the Mandaluyong Medical Center using a 1994 resolution. Suguitan challenged this, arguing it violated procedural requirements under the Local Government Code.	A local government cannot initiate expropriation proceedings without a valid ordinance authorizing it; a resolution is insufficient under Section 19 of RA 7160 (Local Government Code).	Statutory Construction
Liang vs. People (28th January 2000)	AK383066 323 SCRA 692 , G.R. No. 125865	Jeffrey Liang, an ADB employee, was charged with defaming a colleague. The MeTC initially dismissed the case based on a DFA protocol letter asserting immunity, but the RTC reversed this decision.	Immunity under the ADB Headquarters Agreement does not apply to criminal acts like defamation; lower courts must allow both parties to present evidence on whether alleged acts were performed in an official capacity.	Statutory Construction
Miranda vs. Abaya (28th July 1999)	AK165397 311 SCRA 617 , 370 Phil. 642 , G.R. No. 136351	Jose "Pempe" Miranda, the incumbent mayor of Santiago City, sought reelection despite having already served the maximum of three consecutive terms. Antonio M. Abaya filed a petition to deny due course and/or cancel Jose Miranda’s certificate of candidacy, which the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) granted on May 5, 1998. Despite this, Joel G. Miranda filed a certificate of candidacy on May 6, 1998, claiming to be a substitute candidate for his father.	A candidate whose certificate of candidacy has been denied due course and canceled cannot be substituted under Section 77 of the Omnibus Election Code. As a result, Joel G. Miranda’s substitution was void, and he was not legally elected as mayor.	Philosophy of Law
People vs. Quiñanola (5th May 1999)	AK891024 306 SCRA 710 , G.R. No. 126148	The case arose from the alleged rape of a 15-year-old girl, Catalina Carciller, by two armed men, Agapito Quiñanola and Eduardo Escuadro, in Dumanjug, Cebu, on the night of March 5, 1994. The appellants allegedly accosted the victim and her companions, separated her from them, and took turns sexually assaulting her at gunpoint.	The crime of frustrated rape does not exist in Philippine jurisprudence; any penetration of the female sex organ by the male organ, however slight, including mere entry into the labia or lips of the female organ ("mere touching of the external genitalia"), constitutes consummated rape.	Criminal Law II Rape