Professional Documents
Culture Documents
(1) The political question issue -- being very fundamental and (2) DO THE PROVISIONS OF THE WTO AGREEMENT AND ITS
vital, and being a matter that probes into the very jurisdiction of THREE ANNEXES CONTRAVENE SEC. 19, ARTICLE II, AND SECS. 10
this Court to hear and decide this case -- was deliberated upon by AND 12, ARTICLE XII, OF THE PHILIPPINE CONSTITUTION?
the Court and will thus be ruled upon as the first issue;
(3) DO THE PROVISIONS OF SAID AGREEMENT AND ITS
(2) The matter of estoppel will not be taken up because this
ANNEXES LIMIT, RESTRICT, OR IMPAIR THE EXERCISE OF
defense is waivable and the respondents have effectively waived it
LEGISLATIVE POWER BY CONGRESS?
by not pursuing it in any of their pleadings; in any event, this issue,
even if ruled in respondents favor, will not cause the petitions
(4) DO SAID PROVISIONS UNDULY IMPAIR OR INTERFERE WITH
dismissal as there are petitioners other than the two senators, who
THE EXERCISE OF JUDICIAL POWER BY THIS COURT IN
are not vulnerable to the defense of estoppel; and
PROMULGATING RULES ON EVIDENCE?
(3) The issue of alleged grave abuse of discretion on the part
of the respondent senators will be taken up as an integral part of (5) WAS THE CONCURRENCE OF THE SENATE IN THE WTO
the disposition of the four issues raised by the Solicitor General. AGREEMENT AND ITS ANNEXES SUFFICIENT AND/OR VALID,
CONSIDERING THAT IT DID NOT INCLUDE THE FINAL ACT,
During its deliberations on the case, the Court noted that the MINISTERIAL DECLARATIONS AND DECISIONS, AND THE
respondents did not question the locus standi of UNDERSTANDING ON COMMITMENTS IN FINANCIAL SERVICES?
petitioners. Hence, they are also deemed to have waived the
benefit of such issue.They probably realized that grave The First Issue: Does the Court Have Jurisdiction Over the
constitutional issues, expenditures of public funds and serious Controversy?
international commitments of the nation are involved here, and
that transcendental public interest requires that the substantive In seeking to nullify an act of the Philippine Senate on the ground
issues be met head on and decided on the merits, rather than that it contravenes the Constitution, the petition no doubt raises a
skirted or deflected by procedural matters.[11] justiciable controversy. Where an action of the legislative branch is
seriously alleged to have infringed the Constitution, it becomes not
To recapitulate, the issues that will be ruled upon shortly are: only the right but in fact the duty of the judiciary to settle the
dispute. The question thus posed is judicial rather than
(1) DOES THE PETITION PRESENT A JUSTICIABLE political. The duty (to adjudicate) remains to assure that the
CONTROVERSY? OTHERWISE STATED, DOES THE PETITION supremacy of the Constitution is upheld.[12] Once a controversy as
to the application or interpretation of a constitutional provision is As the petition alleges grave abuse of discretion and as there is no
raised before this Court (as in the instant case), it becomes a legal other plain, speedy or adequate remedy in the ordinary course of
issue which the Court is bound by constitutional mandate to law, we have no hesitation at all in holding that this petition should
decide.[13] be given due course and the vital questions raised therein ruled
upon under Rule 65 of the Rules of Court. Indeed, certiorari,
The jurisdiction of this Court to adjudicate the matters[14] raised in prohibition and mandamus are appropriate remedies to raise
the petition is clearly set out in the 1987 Constitution,[15] as follows: constitutional issues and to review and/or prohibit/nullify, when
proper, acts of legislative and executive officials. On this, we have
Judicial power includes the duty of the courts of justice to no equivocation.
settle actual controversies involving rights which are legally
demandable and enforceable, and to determine whether or not We should stress that, in deciding to take jurisdiction over this
there has been a grave abuse of discretion amounting to lack or petition, this Court will not review the wisdom of the decision of
excess of jurisdiction on the part of any branch or instrumentality the President and the Senate in enlisting the country into the WTO,
of the government. or pass upon the merits of trade liberalization as a policy espoused
by said international body. Neither will it rule on the propriety of
The foregoing text emphasizes the judicial departments duty and the governments economic policy of reducing/removing tariffs,
power to strike down grave abuse of discretion on the part of any taxes, subsidies, quantitative restrictions, and other import/trade
branch or instrumentality of government including Congress. It is barriers. Rather, it will only exercise its constitutional duty to
an innovation in our political law.[16] As explained by former Chief determine whether or not there had been a grave abuse of
Justice Roberto Concepcion,[17] the judiciary is the final arbiter on discretion amounting to lack or excess of jurisdiction on the part of
the question of whether or not a branch of government or any of the Senate in ratifying the WTO Agreement and its three annexes.
its officials has acted without jurisdiction or in excess of jurisdiction
or so capriciously as to constitute an abuse of discretion amounting Second Issue: The WTO Agreement and Economic Nationalism
to excess of jurisdiction. This is not only a judicial power but a duty
to pass judgment on matters of this nature. This is the lis mota, the main issue, raised by the petition.
As this Court has repeatedly and firmly emphasized in many Petitioners vigorously argue that the letter, spirit and intent of the
cases,[18] it will not shirk, digress from or abandon its sacred duty Constitution mandating economic nationalism are violated by the
and authority to uphold the Constitution in matters that involve so-called parity provisions and national treatment clauses
grave abuse of discretion brought before it in appropriate cases, scattered in various parts not only of the WTO Agreement and its
committed by any officer, agency, instrumentality or department annexes but also in the Ministerial Decisions and Declarations and
of the government. in the Understanding on Commitments in Financial Services.
Specifically, the flagship constitutional provisions referred to are Sec. 12. The State shall promote the preferential use of Filipino
Sec. 19, Article II, and Secs. 10 and 12, Article XII, of the labor, domestic materials and locally produced goods, and adopt
Constitution, which are worded as follows: measures that help make them competitive.
Constitution Favors Consumers, Not Industries or Enterprises No doubt, the WTO Agreement was not yet in existence when the
Constitution was drafted and ratified in 1987. That does not mean
The Constitution has not really shown any unbalanced bias in favor however that the Charter is necessarily flawed in the sense that its
of any business or enterprise, nor does it contain any specific framers might not have anticipated the advent of a borderless
pronouncement that Filipino companies should be pampered with world of business. By the same token, the United Nations was not
a total yet in existence when the 1935 Constitution became effective.Did
proscription of foreign competition. On the other hand, responde that necessarily mean that the then Constitution might not have
nts claim that WTO/GATT aims to make available to the Filipino contemplated a diminution of the absoluteness of sovereignty
consumer the best goods and services obtainable anywhere in the when the Philippines signed the UN Charter, thereby effectively
world at the most reasonable prices. Consequently, the question surrendering part of its control over its foreign relations to the
boils down to whether WTO/GATT will favor the general welfare of decisions of various UN organs like the Security Council?
the public at large.
It is not difficult to answer this question. Constitutions are designed
Will adherence to the WTO treaty bring this ideal (of favoring the to meet not only the vagaries of contemporary events. They should
general welfare) to reality? be interpreted to cover even future and unknown circumstances. It
is to the credit of its drafters that a Constitution can withstand the
Will WTO/GATT succeed in promoting the Filipinos general welfare assaults of bigots and infidels but at the same time bend with the
because it will -- as promised by its promoters -- expand the refreshing winds of change necessitated by unfolding events. As
countrys exports and generate more employment? one eminent political law writer and respected jurist[38] explains:
Will it bring more prosperity, employment, purchasing power and The Constitution must be quintessential rather than
quality products at the most reasonable rates to the Filipino public? superficial, the root and not the blossom, the base and framework
only of the edifice that is yet to rise. It is but the core of the dream
The responses to these questions involve judgment calls by our that must take shape, not in a twinkling by mandate of our
policy makers, for which they are answerable to our people during delegates, but slowly in the crucible of Filipino minds and hearts,
appropriate electoral exercises. Such questions and the answers where it will in time develop its sinews and gradually gather its
thereto are not subject to judicial pronouncements based on grave strength and finally achieve its substance. In fine, the Constitution
abuse of discretion. cannot, like the goddess Athena, rise full-grown from the brow of
the Constitutional Convention, nor can it conjure by mere fiat an
instant Utopia. It must grow with the society it seeks to re-structure Sovereignty Limited by International Law and Treaties
and march apace with the progress of the race, drawing from the
vicissitudes of history the dynamism and vitality that will keep it, This Court notes and appreciates the ferocity and passion by which
far from becoming a petrified rule, a pulsing, living law attuned to petitioners stressed their arguments on this issue. However, while
the heartbeat of the nation. sovereignty has traditionally been deemed absolute and all-
encompassing on the domestic level, it is however subject to
Third Issue: The WTO Agreement and Legislative Power restrictions and limitations voluntarily agreed to by the Philippines,
expressly or impliedly, as a member of the family of
The WTO Agreement provides that (e)ach Member shall ensure the nations.Unquestionably, the Constitution did not envision a
conformity of its laws, regulations and administrative procedures hermit-type isolation of the country from the rest of the world. In
with its obligations as provided in the annexed its Declaration of Principles and State Policies, the Constitution
Agreements.[39] Petitioners maintain that this undertaking unduly adopts the generally accepted principles of international law as
limits, restricts and impairs Philippine sovereignty, specifically the part of the law of the land, and adheres to the policy of peace,
legislative power which under Sec. 2, Article VI of the 1987 equality, justice, freedom, cooperation and amity, with all
Philippine Constitution is vested in the Congress of the nations."[43] By the doctrine of incorporation, the country is bound
Philippines. It is an assault on the sovereign powers of the by generally accepted principles of international law, which are
Philippines because this means that Congress could not pass considered to be automatically part of our own laws.[44] One of the
legislation that will be good for our national interest and general oldest and most fundamental rules in international law is pacta
welfare if such legislation will not conform with the WTO sunt servanda -- international agreements must be performed in
Agreement, which not only relates to the trade in goods x x x but good faith. A treaty engagement is not a mere moral obligation but
also to the flow of investments and money x x x as well as to a creates a legally binding obligation on the parties x x x. A state
whole slew of agreements on socio-cultural matters x x x.[40] which has contracted valid international obligations is bound to
make in its legislations such modifications as may be necessary to
More specifically, petitioners claim that said ensure the fulfillment of the obligations undertaken.[45]
WTO proviso derogates from the power to tax, which is lodged in
the Congress.[41] And while the Constitution allows Congress to By their inherent nature, treaties really limit or restrict the
authorize the President to fix tariff rates, import and export quotas, absoluteness of sovereignty. By their voluntary act, nations may
tonnage and wharfage dues, and other duties or imposts, such surrender some aspects of their state power in exchange for
authority is subject to specified limits and x x x such limitations and greater benefits granted by or derived from a convention or
restrictions as Congress may provide,[42] as in fact it did under Sec. pact. After all, states, like individuals, live with coequals, and in
401 of the Tariff and Customs Code. pursuit of mutually covenanted objectives and benefits, they also
commonly agree to limit the exercise of their otherwise absolute
rights. Thus, treaties have been used to record agreements corresponding share in such expenses. In this sense, the Philippine
between States concerning such widely diverse matters as, for Congress is restricted in its power to appropriate. It is compelled to
example, the lease of naval bases, the sale or cession of territory, appropriate funds whether it agrees with such peace-keeping
the termination of war, the regulation of conduct of hostilities, the expenses or not. So too, under Article 105 of the said Charter, the
formation of alliances, the regulation of commercial relations, the UN and its representatives enjoy diplomatic privileges and
settling of claims, the laying down of rules governing conduct in immunities, thereby limiting again the exercise of sovereignty of
peace and the establishment of international organizations.[46] The members within their own territory.Another example: although
sovereignty of a state therefore cannot in fact and in reality be sovereign equality and domestic jurisdiction of all members are set
considered absolute. Certain restrictions enter into the picture: (1) forth as underlying principles in the UN Charter, such provisos are
limitations imposed by the very nature of membership in the family however subject to enforcement measures decided by the Security
of nations and (2) limitations imposed by treaty stipulations. As Council for the maintenance of international peace and security
aptly put by John F. Kennedy, Today, no nation can build its destiny under Chapter VII of the Charter. A final example: under Article
alone. The age of self-sufficient nationalism is over. The age of 103, (i)n the event of a conflict between the obligations of the
interdependence is here.[47] Members of the United Nations under the present Charter and
their obligations under any other international agreement, their
UN Charter and Other Treaties Limit Sovereignty obligation under the present charter shall prevail, thus
unquestionably denying the Philippines -- as a member -- the
Thus, when the Philippines joined the United Nations as one of its sovereign power to make a choice as to which of conflicting
51 charter members, it consented to restrict its sovereign rights obligations, if any, to honor.
under the concept of sovereignty as auto-limitation.47-A Under
Article 2 of the UN Charter, (a)ll members shall give the United Apart from the UN Treaty, the Philippines has entered into many
Nations every assistance in any action it takes in accordance with other international pacts -- both bilateral and multilateral -- that
the present Charter, and shall refrain from giving assistance to any involve limitations on Philippine sovereignty. These are
state against which the United Nations is taking preventive or enumerated by the Solicitor General in his Compliance dated
enforcement action. Such assistance includes payment of its October 24, 1996, as follows:
corresponding share not merely in administrative expenses but
also in expenditures for the peace-keeping operations of the (a) Bilateral convention with the United States regarding taxes
organization. In its advisory opinion of July 20, 1961, the on income, where the Philippines agreed, among others, to exempt
International Court of Justice held that money used by the United from tax, income received in the Philippines by, among others, the
Nations Emergency Force in the Middle East and in the Congo were Federal Reserve Bank of the United States, the Export/Import Bank
expenses of the United Nations under Article 17, paragraph 2, of of the United States, the Overseas Private Investment Corporation
the UN Charter. Hence, all its members must bear their of the United States. Likewise, in said convention, wages, salaries
and similar remunerations paid by the United States to its citizens the requirement of obtaining transit or visitor visas for a sojourn in
for labor and personal services performed by them as employees the Philippines not exceeding 59 days.
or officials of the United States are exempt from income tax by the
(I) Bilateral agreement with France exempting French
Philippines.
nationals from the requirement of obtaining transit and visitor visa
(b) Bilateral agreement with Belgium, providing, among for a sojourn not exceeding 59 days.
others, for the avoidance of double taxation with respect to taxes
(j) Multilateral Convention on Special Missions, where the
on income.
Philippines agreed that premises of Special Missions in the
(c) Bilateral convention with the Kingdom of Sweden for the Philippines are inviolable and its agents can not enter said premises
avoidance of double taxation. without consent of the Head of Mission concerned. Special
Missions are also exempted from customs duties, taxes and related
(d) Bilateral convention with the French Republic for the
charges.
avoidance of double taxation.
(k) Multilateral Convention on the Law of Treaties. In this
(e) Bilateral air transport agreement with Korea where the
convention, the Philippines agreed to be governed by the Vienna
Philippines agreed to exempt from all customs duties, inspection
Convention on the Law of Treaties.
fees and other duties or taxes aircrafts of South Korea and the
regular equipment, spare parts and supplies arriving with said (l) Declaration of the President of the Philippines accepting
aircrafts. compulsory jurisdiction of the International Court of Justice. The
International Court of Justice has jurisdiction in all legal disputes
(f) Bilateral air service agreement with Japan, where the
concerning the interpretation of a treaty, any question of
Philippines agreed to exempt from customs duties, excise taxes,
international law, the existence of any fact which, if established,
inspection fees and other similar duties, taxes or charges fuel,
would constitute a breach of international obligation.
lubricating oils, spare parts, regular equipment, stores on board
Japanese aircrafts while on Philippine soil.
In the foregoing treaties, the Philippines has effectively agreed to
(g) Bilateral air service agreement with Belgium where the limit the exercise of its sovereign powers of taxation, eminent
Philippines granted Belgian air carriers the same privileges as those domain and police power. The underlying consideration in this
granted to Japanese and Korean air carriers under separate air partial surrender of sovereignty is the reciprocal commitment of
service agreements. the other contracting states in granting the same privilege and
immunities to the Philippines, its officials and its citizens. The same
(h) Bilateral notes with Israel for the abolition of transit and
reciprocity characterizes the Philippine commitments under WTO-
visitor visas where the Philippines exempted Israeli nationals from
GATT.
International treaties, whether relating to nuclear To understand the scope and meaning of Article 34, TRIPS,[51] it will
disarmament, human rights, the environment, the law of the sea, be fruitful to restate its full text as follows:
or trade, constrain domestic political sovereignty through the
assumption of external obligations. But unless anarchy in Article 34
international relations is preferred as an alternative, in most cases
Process Patents: Burden of Proof
we accept that the benefits of the reciprocal obligations involved
outweigh the costs associated with any loss of political 1. For the purposes of civil proceedings in respect of the
sovereignty.(T)rade treaties that structure relations by reference to infringement of the rights of the owner referred to in paragraph
durable, well-defined substantive norms and objective dispute 1(b) of Article 28, if the subject matter of a patent is a process for
resolution procedures reduce the risks of larger countries obtaining a product, the judicial authorities shall have the authority
exploiting raw economic power to bully smaller countries, by to order the defendant to prove that the process to obtain an
subjecting power relations to some form of legal ordering. In identical product is different from the patented process. Therefore,
addition, smaller countries typically stand to gain Members shall provide, in at least one of the following
disproportionately from trade liberalization. This is due to the circumstances, that any identical product when produced without
simple fact that liberalization will provide access to a larger set of the consent of the patent owner shall, in the absence of proof to
potential new trading relationship than in case of the larger country the contrary, be deemed to have been obtained by the patented
gaining enhanced success to the smaller countrys market.[48] process:
(a) if the product obtained by the patented process is new;
The point is that, as shown by the foregoing treaties, a portion of
sovereignty may be waived without violating the Constitution, (b) if there is a substantial likelihood that the identical product
based on the rationale that the Philippines adopts the generally was made by the process and the owner of the patent has been
accepted principles of international law as part of the law of the unable through reasonable efforts to determine the process
land and adheres to the policy of x x x cooperation and amity with actually used.
all nations.
2. Any Member shall be free to provide that the burden of
proof indicated in paragraph 1 shall be on the alleged infringer only
Fourth Issue: The WTO Agreement and Judicial Power
if the condition referred to in subparagraph (a) is fulfilled or only if
the condition referred to in subparagraph (b) is fulfilled.
Petitioners aver that paragraph 1, Article 34 of the General
Provisions and Basic Principles of the Agreement on Trade-Related 3. In the adduction of proof to the contrary, the legitimate
Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS)[49] intrudes on the interests of defendants in protecting their manufacturing and
power of the Supreme Court to promulgate rules concerning business secrets shall be taken into account.
pleading, practice and procedures.[50]
From the above, a WTO Member is required to provide a rule of SEC. 60. Infringement. - Infringement of a design patent or of
disputable (note the words in the absence of proof to the contrary) a patent for utility model shall consist in unauthorized copying of
presumption that a product shown to be identical to one produced the patented design or utility model for the purpose of trade or
with the use of a patented process shall be deemed to have been industry in the article or product and in the making, using or selling
obtained by the (illegal) use of the said patented process, (1) where of the article or product copying the patented design or utility
such product obtained by the patented product is new, or (2) model. Identity or substantial identity with the patented design or
where there is substantial likelihood that the identical product was utility model shall constitute evidence of copying. (underscoring
made with the use of the said patented process but the owner of supplied)
the patent could not determine the exact process used in obtaining
such identical product. Hence, the burden of proof contemplated Moreover, it should be noted that the requirement of Article 34 to
by Article 34 should actually be understood as the duty of the provide a disputable presumption applies only if (1) the product
alleged patent infringer to overthrow such presumption. Such obtained by the patented process is NEW or (2) there is a
burden, properly understood, actually refers to the burden of substantial likelihood that the identical product was made by the
evidence (burden of going forward) placed on the producer of the process and the process owner has not been able through
identical (or fake) product to show that his product was produced reasonable effort to determine the process used. Where either of
without the use of the patented process. these two provisos does not obtain, members shall be free to
determine the appropriate method of implementing the provisions
The foregoing notwithstanding, the patent owner still has the of TRIPS within their own internal systems and processes.
burden of proof since, regardless of the presumption provided
under paragraph 1 of Article 34, such owner still has to introduce By and large, the arguments adduced in connection with our
evidence of the existence of the alleged identical product, the fact disposition of the third issue -- derogation of legislative power - will
that it is identical to the genuine one produced by the patented apply to this fourth issue also. Suffice it to say that the reciprocity
process and the fact of newness of the genuine product or the fact clause more than justifies such intrusion, if any actually
of substantial likelihood that the identical product was made by the exists. Besides, Article 34 does not contain an unreasonable
patented process. burden, consistent as it is with due process and the concept of
adversarial dispute settlement inherent in our judicial system.
The foregoing should really present no problem in changing the
rules of evidence as the present law on the subject, Republic Act So too, since the Philippine is a signatory to most international
No. 165, as amended, otherwise known as the Patent Law, provides conventions on patents, trademarks and copyrights, the
a similar presumption in cases of infringement of patented design adjustment in legislation and rules of procedure will not be
or utility model, thus: substantial.[52]
Fifth Issue: Concurrence Only in the WTO Agreement and Not to seeking approval of the Agreement in accordance with their
in Other Documents Contained in the Final Act procedures; and
(b) to adopt the Ministerial Declarations and Decisions."
Petitioners allege that the Senate concurrence in the WTO
Agreement and its annexes -- but not in the other documents
The assailed Senate Resolution No. 97 expressed concurrence in
referred to in the Final Act, namely the Ministerial Declaration and
exactly what the Final Act required from its signatories, namely,
Decisions and the Understanding on Commitments in Financial
concurrence of the Senate in the WTO Agreement.
Services -- is defective and insufficient and thus constitutes abuse
of discretion. They submit that such concurrence in the WTO
The Ministerial Declarations and Decisions were deemed adopted
Agreement alone is flawed because it is in effect a rejection of the
without need for ratification. They were approved by the ministers
Final Act, which in turn was the document signed by Secretary
by virtue of Article XXV: 1 of GATT which provides that
Navarro, in representation of the Republic upon authority of the
representatives of the members can meet to give effect to those
President. They contend that the second letter of the President to
provisions of this Agreement which invoke joint action, and
the Senate[53] which enumerated what constitutes the Final Act
generally with a view to facilitating the operation and furthering
should have been the subject of concurrence of the Senate.
the objectives of this Agreement.[56]
A final act, sometimes called protocol de clture, is an instrument
The Understanding on Commitments in Financial Services also
which records the winding up of the proceedings of a diplomatic
approved in Marrakesh does not apply to the Philippines. It applies
conference and usually includes a reproduction of the texts of
only to those 27 Members which have indicated in their respective
treaties, conventions, recommendations and other acts agreed
schedules of commitments on standstill, elimination of monopoly,
upon and signed by the plenipotentiaries attending the
expansion of operation of existing financial service suppliers,
conference.[54] It is not the treaty itself. It is rather a summary of
temporary entry of personnel, free transfer and processing of
the proceedings of a protracted conference which may have taken
information, and national treatment with respect to access to
place over several years. The text of the Final Act Embodying the
payment, clearing systems and refinancing available in the normal
Results of the Uruguay Round of Multilateral Trade Negotiations is
course of business.[57]
contained in just one page[55] in Vol. I of the 36-
volume Uruguay Round of Multilateral Trade Negotiations. By On the other hand, the WTO Agreement itself expresses what
signing said Final Act, Secretary Navarro as representative of the multilateral agreements are deemed included as its integral
Republic of the Philippines undertook: parts,[58] as follows:
"(a) to submit, as appropriate, the WTO Agreement for the Article II
consideration of their respective competent authorities with a view
Scope of the WTO THE CHAIRMAN: Yes. Now, the question of the validity of the
submission came up in the first day hearing of this Committee
1. The WTO shall provide the common institutional framework
yesterday. Was the observation made by Senator Taada that what
for the conduct of trade relations among its Members in matters to
was submitted to the Senate was not the agreement on
the agreements and associated legal instruments included in the
establishing the World Trade Organization by the final act of the
Annexes to this Agreement.
Uruguay Round which is not the same as the agreement
2. The Agreements and associated legal instruments included establishing the World Trade Organization? And on that basis,
in Annexes 1, 2, and 3 (hereinafter referred to as Multilateral Senator Tolentino raised a point of order which, however, he
Agreements) are integral parts of this Agreement, binding on all agreed to withdraw upon understanding that his suggestion for an
Members. alternative solution at that time was acceptable. That suggestion
was to treat the proceedings of the Committee as being in the
3. The Agreements and associated legal instruments included
nature of briefings for Senators until the question of the submission
in Annex 4 (hereinafter referred to as Plurilateral Trade
could be clarified.
Agreements) are also part of this Agreement for those Members
that have accepted them, and are binding on those Members. The And so, Secretary Romulo, in effect, is the President submitting
Plurilateral Trade Agreements do not create either obligation or a new... is he making a new submission which improves on the
rights for Members that have not accepted them. clarity of the first submission?
4. The General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade 1994 as MR. ROMULO: Mr. Chairman, to make sure that it is clear cut
specified in annex 1A (hereinafter referred to as GATT 1994) is and there should be no misunderstanding, it was his intention to
legally distinct from the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade, clarify all matters by giving this letter.
dated 30 October 1947, annexed to the Final Act adopted at the
THE CHAIRMAN: Thank you.
conclusion of the Second Session of the Preparatory Committee of
the United Nations Conference on Trade and Employment, as Can this Committee hear from Senator Taada and later on
subsequently rectified, amended or modified (hereinafter referred Senator Tolentino since they were the ones that raised this
to as GATT 1947). question yesterday?
Senator Taada, please.
It should be added that the Senate was well-aware of what it was
concurring in as shown by the members deliberation on August 25, SEN. TAADA: Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
1994. After reading the letter of President Ramos dated August 11,
Based on what Secretary Romulo has read, it would now
1994,[59] the senators of the Republic minutely dissected what the
clearly appear that what is being submitted to the Senate for
Senate was concurring in, as follows: [60]
ratification is not the Final Act of the Uruguay Round, but rather
the Agreement on the World Trade Organization as well as the being submitted now, I think it satisfies both the Constitution and
Ministerial Declarations and Decisions, and the Understanding and the Final Act itself.
Commitments in Financial Services.
Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
I am now satisfied with the wording of the new submission of
THE CHAIRMAN. Thank you, Senator Tolentino, May I call on
President Ramos.
Senator Gonzales.
SEN. TAADA. . . . of President Ramos, Mr. Chairman.
SEN. GONZALES. Mr. Chairman, my views on this matter are
THE CHAIRMAN. Thank you, Senator Taada. Can we hear from already a matter of record. And they had been adequately
Senator Tolentino? And after him Senator Neptali Gonzales and reflected in the journal of yesterdays session and I dont see any
Senator Lina. need for repeating the same.
SEN TOLENTINO, Mr. Chairman, I have not seen the new Now, I would consider the new submission as an act ex
submission actually transmitted to us but I saw the draft of his abudante cautela.
earlier, and I think it now complies with the provisions of the
THE CHAIRMAN. Thank you, Senator Gonzales. Senator Lina,
Constitution, and with the Final Act itself. The Constitution does
do you want to make any comment on this?
not require us to ratify the Final Act. It requires us to ratify the
Agreement which is now being submitted. The Final Act itself SEN. LINA. Mr. President, I agree with the observation just
specifies what is going to be submitted to with the governments of made by Senator Gonzales out of the abundance of question. Then
the participants. the new submission is, I believe, stating the obvious and therefore
I have no further comment to make.
In paragraph 2 of the Final Act, we read and I quote:
By signing the present Final Act, the representatives Epilogue
agree: (a) to submit as appropriate the WTO Agreement for the
consideration of the respective competent authorities with a view In praying for the nullification of the Philippine ratification of the
to seeking approval of the Agreement in accordance with their WTO Agreement, petitioners are invoking this Courts
procedures. constitutionally imposed duty to determine whether or not there
has been grave abuse of discretion amounting to lack or excess of
In other words, it is not the Final Act that was agreed to be
jurisdiction on the part of the Senate in giving its concurrence
submitted to the governments for ratification or acceptance as
therein via Senate Resolution No. 97. Procedurally, a writ
whatever their constitutional procedures may provide but it is the
of certiorari grounded on grave abuse of discretion may be issued
World Trade Organization Agreement. And if that is the one that is
by the Court under Rule 65 of the Rules of Court when it is amply
shown that petitioners have no other plain, speedy and adequate produced goods. But it is equally true that such principles -- while
remedy in the ordinary course of law. serving as judicial and legislative guides -- are not in themselves
sources of causes of action. Moreover, there are other equally
By grave abuse of discretion is meant such capricious and whimsical fundamental constitutional principles relied upon by the Senate
exercise of judgment as is equivalent to lack of jurisdiction.[61] Mere which mandate the pursuit of a trade policy that serves the general
abuse of discretion is not enough. It must be grave abuse of welfare and utilizes all forms and arrangements of exchange on the
discretion as when the power is exercised in an arbitrary or basis of equality and reciprocity and the promotion of industries
despotic manner by reason of passion or personal hostility, and which are competitive in both domestic and foreign markets,
must be so patent and so gross as to amount to an evasion of a thereby justifying its acceptance of said treaty. So too, the alleged
positive duty or to a virtual refusal to perform the duty enjoined or impairment of sovereignty in the exercise of legislative and judicial
to act at all in contemplation of law.[62] Failure on the part of the powers is balanced by the adoption of the generally accepted
petitioner to show grave abuse of discretion will result in the principles of international law as part of the law of the land and the
dismissal of the petition.[63] adherence of the Constitution to the policy of cooperation and
amity with all nations.
In rendering this Decision, this Court never forgets that the Senate,
whose act is under review, is one of two sovereign houses of That the Senate, after deliberation and voting, voluntarily and
Congress and is thus entitled to great respect in its actions. It is overwhelmingly gave its consent to the WTO Agreement thereby
itself a constitutional body independent and coordinate, and thus making it a part of the law of the land is a legitimate exercise of its
its actions are presumed regular and done in good faith. Unless sovereign duty and power. We find no patent and gross
convincing proof and persuasive arguments are presented to arbitrariness or despotism by reason of passion or personal
overthrow such presumptions, this Court will resolve every doubt hostility in such exercise. It is not impossible to surmise that this
in its favor. Using the foregoing well-accepted definition of grave Court, or at least some of its members, may even agree with
abuse of discretion and the presumption of regularity in the petitioners that it is more advantageous to the national interest to
Senates processes, this Court cannot find any cogent reason to strike down Senate Resolution No. 97. But that is not a legal
impute grave abuse of discretion to the Senates exercise of its reason to attribute grave abuse of discretion to the Senate and to
power of concurrence in the WTO Agreement granted it by Sec. 21 nullify its decision. To do so would constitute grave abuse in the
of Article VII of the Constitution.[64] exercise of our own judicial power and duty. Ineludably, what the
Senate did was a valid exercise of its authority. As to whether such
It is true, as alleged by petitioners, that broad constitutional exercise was wise, beneficial or viable is outside the realm of
principles require the State to develop an independent national judicial inquiry and review. That is a matter between the elected
economy effectively controlled by Filipinos; and to protect and/or policy makers and the people. As to whether the nation should join
prefer Filipino labor, products, domestic materials and locally
the worldwide march toward trade liberalization and economic
globalization is a matter that our people should determine in
electing their policy makers.After all, the WTO Agreement allows
withdrawal of membership, should this be the political desire of a
member.
SO ORDERED.
[G.R. No. 134015. July 19, 1999] 2. Annex B Voters Registration Record with SN 31326504 dated
June 22, 1997 indicating respondents registration at Precinct No.
JUAN DOMINO, petitioner, vs. COMMISSION ON ELECTIONS, 4400-A, Old Balara, Quezon City;
On 25 March 1998, DOMINO filed his certificate of candidacy for 3. Annex C Respondents Community Tax Certificate No. 11132214C
the position of Representative of the Lone Legislative District of the dated January 15, 1997;
Province of Sarangani indicating in item nine (9) of his certificate
that he had resided in the constituency where he seeks to be 4. Annex D Certified true copy of the letter of Herson D. Dema-ala,
elected for one (1) year and two (2) months immediately preceding Deputy Provincial & Municipal Treasurer of Alabel, Sarangani,
the election.[3] dated February 26, 1998, addressed to Mr. Conrado G. Butil, which
reads:
On 30 March 1998, private respondents Narciso Ra. Grafilo, Jr.,
Eddy B. Java, Juan P. Bayonito, Jr., Rosario Samson and Dionisio P. In connection with your letter of even date, we are furnishing you
Lim, Sr., filed with the COMELEC a Petition to Deny Due Course to herewith certified xerox copy of the triplicate copy of COMMUNITY
or Cancel Certificate of Candidacy, which was docketed as SPA No. TAX CERTIFICATE NO. 11132214C in the name of Juan Domino.
98-022 and assigned to the Second Division of the
COMELEC. Private respondents alleged that DOMINO, contrary to Furthermore, Community Tax Certificate No. 11132212C of the
his declaration in the certificate of candidacy, is not a resident, same stub was issued to Carlito Engcong on September 5, 1997,
much less a registered voter, of the province of Sarangani where while Certificate No. 11132213C was also issued to Mr. Juan
he seeks election. To substantiate their allegations, private Domino but was cancelled and serial no. 11132215C was issued in
respondents presented the following evidence: the name of Marianita Letigio on September 8, 1997.
1. Annex A the Certificate of Candidacy of respondent for the 5. Annex E The triplicate copy of the Community Tax Certificate No.
position of Congressman of the Lone District of the Province of 11132214C in the name of Juan Domino dated September 5, 1997;
Sarangani filed with the Office of the Provincial Election Supervisor
of Sarangani on March 25, 1998, where in item 4 thereof he wrote 6. Annex F Copy of the letter of Provincial Treasurer Lourdes P.
his date of birth as December 5, 1953; in item 9, he claims he have Riego dated March 2, 1998 addressed to Mr. Herson D. Dema-ala,
resided in the constituency where he seeks election for one (1) year Deputy Provincial Treasurer and Municipal Treasurer of Alabel,
and two (2) months; and, in item 10, that he is registered voter of Sarangani, which states:
Precinct No. 14A-1, Barangay Poblacion, Alabel, Sarangani;
For easy reference, kindly turn-over to the undersigned for
safekeeping, the stub of Community Tax Certificate containing Nos.
11132201C-11132250C issued to you on June 13, 1997 and paid For his defense, DOMINO maintains that he had complied with the
under Official Receipt No. 7854744. one-year residence requirement and that he has been residing in
Sarangani since January 1997. In support of the said contention,
Upon request of Congressman James L. Chiongbian. DOMINO presented before the COMELEC the following exhibits, to
wit:
7. Annex G Certificate of Candidacy of respondent for the position
of Congressman in the 3rd District of Quezon City for the 1995 1. Annex 1 - Copy of the Contract of Lease between Nora
elections filed with the Office of the Regional Election Director, Dacaldacal as Lessor and Administrator of the properties of
National Capital Region, on March 17, 1995, where, in item 4 deceased spouses Maximo and Remedios Dacaldacal and
thereof, he wrote his birth date as December 22, 1953; in item 8 respondent as Lessee executed on January 15, 1997, subscribed
thereof his residence in the constituency where I seek to be elected and sworn to before Notary Public Johnny P. Landero;
immediately preceding the election as 3 years and 5 months; and,
in item 9, that he is a registered voter of Precinct No. 182, Barangay 2. Annex 2 - Copy of the Extra-Judicial Settlement of Estate with
Balara, Quezon City; Absolute Deed of sale executed by and between the heirs of
deceased spouses Maximo and Remedios Dacaldacal, namely:
8. Annex H a copy of the APPLICATION FOR TRANSFER OF Maria Lourdes, Jupiter and Beberlie and the respondent on
REGISTRATION RECORDS DUE TO CHANGE OF RESIDENCE of November 4, 1997, subscribed and sworn to before Notary Public
respondent dated August 30, 1997 addressed to and received by Jose A. Alegario;
Election Officer Mantil Alim, Alabel, Sarangani, on September 22,
1997, stating among others, that [T]he undersigneds previous 3. Annex 3 - True Carbon Xerox copy of the Decision dated January
residence is at 24 Bonifacio Street, Ayala Heights, Quezon City, III 19, 1998, of the Metropolitan Trial Court of Metro Manila, Branch
District, Quezon City; wherein he is a registered voter and that for 35, Quezon City, in Election Case NO. 725 captioned as In the
business and residence purposes, the undersigned has transferred Matter of the Petition for the Exclusion from the List of voters of
and conducts his business and reside at Barangay Poblacion, Alabel, Precinct No. 4400-A Brgy. Old Balara, Quezon City, Spouses Juan
Province of Sarangani prior to this application; and Zorayda Domino, Petitioners, -versus- Elmer M. Kayanan,
Election Officer, Quezon City, District III, and the Board of Election
9. Annex I Copy of the SWORN APPLICATION FOR CANCELLATION Inspectors of Precinct No. 4400-A, Old Balara, Quezon City,
OF VOTERS [TRANSFER OF] PREVIOUS REGISTRATION of Respondents. The dispositive portion of which reads:
respondent subscribed and sworn to on 22 October 1997 before
Election Officer Mantil Allim at Alabel, Sarangani.[4] 1. Declaring the registration of petitioners as voters of Precinct No.
4400-A, Barangay Old Balara, in District III Quezon City as
completely erroneous as petitioners were no longer residents of
Quezon City but of Alabel, Sarangani where they have been 6. Annex 6 - same as Annex 5
residing since December 1996;
7. Annex 6-a - Copy of the Sworn Application for Cancellation of
2. Declaring this erroneous registration of petitioners in Quezon Voters Previous Registration (Annex I, Petition);
City as done in good faith due to an honest mistake caused by
circumstances beyond their control and without any fault of 8. Annex 7 - Copy of claim card in the name of respondent showing
petitioners; his VRR No. 31326504 dated October 20, 1997 as a registered voter
of Precinct No. 14A1, Barangay Poblacion, Alabel, Sarangani;
3. Approving the transfer of registration of voters of petitioners
from Precinct No. 4400-A of Barangay Old Balara, Quezon City to 9. Annex 7-a - Certification dated April 16, 1998, issued by Atty.
Precinct No. 14A1 of Barangay Poblacion of Alabel, Sarangani; and Elmer M. Kayanan, Election Officer IV, District III, Quezon City,
which reads:
4. Ordering the respondents to immediately transfer and forward
all the election/voters registration records of the petitioners in This is to certify that the spouses JUAN and ZORAYDA DOMINO are
Quezon City to the Election Officer, the Election Registration Board no longer registered voters of District III, Quezon City. Their
and other Comelec Offices of Alabel, Sarangani where the registration records (VRR) were transferred and are now in the
petitioners are obviously qualified to exercise their respective possession of the Election Officer of Alabel, Sarangani.
rights of suffrage.
This certification is being issued upon the request of Mr. JUAN
4. Annex 4 - Copy of the Application for Transfer of Registration DOMINO.
Records due to Change of Residence addressed to Mantil Alim,
COMELEC Registrar, Alabel, Sarangani, dated August 30, 1997. 10. Annex 8 - Affidavit of Nora Dacaldacal and Maria Lourdes
Dacaldacal stating the circumstances and incidents detailing their
5. Annex 5 - Certified True Copy of the Notice of Approval of alleged acquaintance with respondent.
Application, the roster of applications for registration approved by
the Election Registration Board on October 20, 1997, showing the 11. Annexes 8-a, 8-b, 8-c and 8-d - Copies of the uniform affidavits
spouses Juan and Zorayda Bailon Domino listed as numbers 111 of witness Myrna Dalaguit, Hilario Fuentes, Coraminda Lomibao
and 112 both under Precinct No. 14A1, the last two names in the and Elena V. Piodos subscribed and sworn to before Notary Public
slate indicated as transferees without VRR numbers and their Bonifacio F. Doria, Jr., on April 18, 1998, embodying their alleged
application dated August 30, 1997 and September 30, 1997, personal knowledge of respondents residency in Alabel, Sarangani;
respectively.
12. Annex 8-e - A certification dated April 20, 1998, subscribed and Barangay Poblacion, Alabel, Sarangani, as early as January 1997. It
sworn to before Notary Public Bonifacio, containing a listing of the is highly improbable, nay incredible, for respondent who previously
names of fifty-five(55) residents of Alabel, Sarangani, declaring and ran for the same position in the 3rd Legislative District of Quezon
certifying under oath that they personally know the respondent as City during the elections of 1995 to unwittingly forget the residency
a permanent resident of Alabel, Sarangani since January 1997 up to requirement for the office sought.
present;
Counting, therefore, from the day after June 22, 1997 when
13. Annexes 9, 9-a and 9-b- Copies of Individual Income Tax Return respondent registered at Precinct No. 4400-A, up to and until the
for the year 1997, BIR form 2316 and W-2, respectively, of day of the elections on May 11, 1998, respondent clearly lacks the
respondent; and, one (1) year residency requirement provided for candidates for
Member of the House of Representatives under Section 6, Article
14. Annex 10 - The affidavit of respondent reciting the chronology VI of the Constitution.
of events and circumstances leading to his relocation to the
Municipality of Alabel, Sarangani, appending Annexes A, B, C, D, D- All told, petitioners evidence conspire to attest to respondents lack
1, E, F, G with sub-markings G-1 and G-2 and H his CTC No. of residence in the constituency where he seeks election and while
111`32214C dated September 5, 1997, which are the same as it may be conceded that he is a registered voter as contemplated
Annexes 1, 2, 4, 5, 6-a, 3, 7, 9 with sub-markings 9-a and 9-b except under Section 12 of R.A. 8189, he lacks the qualification to run for
Annex H.[5] the position of Congressman for the Lone District of the Province
of Sarangani.[6]
On 6 May 1998, the COMELEC 2nd Division promulgated a
resolution declaring DOMINO disqualified as candidate for the On 11 May 1998, the day of the election, the COMELEC issued
position of representative of the lone district of Sarangani for lack Supplemental Omnibus Resolution No. 3046, ordering that the
of the one-year residence requirement and likewise ordered the votes cast for DOMINO be counted but to suspend the
cancellation of his certificate of candidacy, on the basis of the proclamation if winning, considering that the Resolution
following findings: disqualifying him as candidate had not yet become final and
executory.[7]
What militates against respondents claim that he has met the
residency requirement for the position sought is his own Voters The result of the election, per Statement of Votes certified by the
Registration Record No. 31326504 dated June 22, 1997 [Annex B, Chairman of the Provincial Board of Canvassers,[8] shows that
Petition] and his address indicated as 24 Bonifacio St., Ayala DOMINO garnered the highest number of votes over his opponents
Heights, Old Balara, Quezon City. This evidence, standing alone, for the position of Congressman of the Province of Sarangani.
negates all his protestations that he established residence at
On 15 May 1998, DOMINO filed a motion for reconsideration of the b. Whether or not petitioner herein has resided in the subject
Resolution dated 6 May 1998, which was denied by the congressional district for at least one (1) year immediately
COMELEC en banc in its decision dated 29 May 1998. Hence, the preceding the May 11, 1998 elections; and
present Petition for Certiorari with prayer for Preliminary
Mandatory Injunction alleging, in the main, that the COMELEC c. Whether or not respondent COMELEC has jurisdiction over the
committed grave abuse of discretion amounting to excess or lack petition a quo for the disqualification of petitioner.[12]
of jurisdiction when it ruled that he did not meet the one-year
residence requirement. The first issue.
On 14 July 1998, acting on DOMINOs Motion for Issuance of The contention of DOMINO that the decision of the Metropolitan
Temporary Restraining Order, the Court directed the parties to Trial Court of Quezon City in the exclusion proceedings declaring
maintain the status quo prevailing at the time of the filing of the him a resident of the Province of Sarangani and not of Quezon City
instant petition.[9] is final and conclusive upon the COMELEC cannot be sustained.
On 15 September 1998, Lucille L. Chiongbian-Solon, (hereafter The COMELEC has jurisdiction as provided in Sec. 78, Art. IX of the
INTERVENOR), the candidate receiving the second highest number Omnibus Election Code, over a petition to deny due course to or
of votes, was allowed by the Court to Intervene.[10] cancel certificate of candidacy. In the exercise of the said
jurisdiction, it is within the competence of the COMELEC to
INTERVENOR in her Motion for Leave to Intervene and in determine whether false representation as to material facts was
her Comment in Intervention[11] is asking the Court to uphold the made in the certificate of candidacy, that will include, among
disqualification of petitioner Juan Domino and to proclaim her as others, the residence of the candidate.
the duly elected representative of Sarangani in the 11 May 1998
elections. The determination of the Metropolitan Trial Court of Quezon City
in the exclusion proceedings as to the right of DOMINO to be
Before us DOMINO raised the following issues for resolution, to included or excluded from the list of voters in the precinct within
wit: its territorial jurisdiction, does not preclude the COMELEC, in the
determination of DOMINOs qualification as a candidate, to pass
a. Whether or not the judgment of the Metropolitan Trial Court of upon the issue of compliance with the residency requirement.
Quezon City declaring petitioner as resident of Sarangani and not
of Quezon City is final, conclusive and binding upon the whole The proceedings for the exclusion or inclusion of voters in the list
world, including the Commission on Elections. of voters are summary in character. Thus, the factual findings of the
trial court and its resultant conclusions in the exclusion
proceedings on matters other than the right to vote in the precinct Moreover, the Metropolitan Trial Court of Quezon City in its 18
within its territorial jurisdiction are not conclusive upon the January decision exceeded its jurisdiction when it declared
COMELEC. Although the court in inclusion or exclusion proceedings DOMINO a resident of the Province of Sarangani, approved and
may pass upon any question necessary to decide the issue raised ordered the transfer of his voters registration from Precinct No.
including the questions of citizenship and residence of the 4400-A of Barangay Old Balara, Quezon City to precinct 14A1 of
challenged voter, the authority to order the inclusion in or Barangay Poblacion, Alabel, Sarangani. It is not within the
exclusion from the list of voters necessarily caries with it the power competence of the trial court, in an exclusion proceedings, to
to inquire into and settle all matters essential to the exercise of said declare the challenged voter a resident of another
authority. However, except for the right to remain in the list of municipality. The jurisdiction of the lower court over exclusion
voters or for being excluded therefrom for the particular election cases is limited only to determining the right of voter to remain in
in relation to which the proceedings had been held, a decision in an the list of voters or to declare that the challenged voter is not
exclusion or inclusion proceeding, even if final and unappealable, qualified to vote in the precinct in which he is registered, specifying
does not acquire the nature of res judicata.[13] In this sense, it does the ground of the voters disqualification. The trial court has no
not operate as a bar to any future action that a party may take power to order the change or transfer of registration from one
concerning the subject passed upon in the proceeding.[14] Thus, a place of residence to another for it is the function of the election
decision in an exclusion proceeding would neither be conclusive on Registration Board as provided under Section 12 of R.A. No.
the voters political status, nor bar subsequent proceedings on his 8189.[17] The only effect of the decision of the lower court excluding
right to be registered as a voter in any other election.[15] the challenged voter from the list of voters, is for the Election
Registration Board, upon receipt of the final decision, to remove
Thus, in Tan Cohon v. Election Registrar[16] we ruled that: the voters registration record from the corresponding book of
voters, enter the order of exclusion therein, and thereafter place
xxx It is made clear that even as it is here held that the order of the the record in the inactive file.[18]
City Court in question has become final, the same does not
constitute res adjudicata as to any of the matters therein Finally, the application of the rule on res judicata is
contained. It is ridiculous to suppose that such an important and unavailing. Identity of parties, subject matter and cause of action
intricate matter of citizenship may be passed upon and determined are indispensable requirements for the application of said
with finality in such a summary and peremptory proceeding as that doctrine. Neither herein Private Respondents nor INTERVENOR, is
of inclusion and exclusion of persons in the registry list of a party in the exclusion proceedings. The Petition for Exclusion was
voters. Even if the City Court had granted appellants petition for filed by DOMINO himself and his wife, praying that he and his wife
inclusion in the permanent list of voters on the allegation that she be excluded from the Voters List on the ground of erroneous
is a Filipino citizen qualified to vote, her alleged Filipino citizenship registration while the Petition to Deny Due Course to or Cancel
would still have been left open to question.
Certificate of Candidacy was filed by private respondents against office. Therefore, there is no identity of parties in the two cases,
DOMINO for alleged false representation in his certificate of since it is not enough that there be an identity of persons, but there
candidacy. For the decision to be a basis for the dismissal by reason must be an identity of capacities in which said persons litigate. (
of res judicata, it is essential that there must be between the first Art. 1259 of the Civil Code; Bowler vs. Estate of Alvarez, 23 Phil.,
and the second action identity of parties, identity of subject matter 561; 34 Corpus Juris, p. 756, par. 1165)
and identity of causes of action.[19] In the present case, the
aforesaid essential requisites are not present. In the case of Nuval In said case of the petition for the exclusion, the object of the
v. Guray, et al.,[20] the Supreme Court in resolving a similar issue litigation, or the litigious matter was the exclusion of Norberto
ruled that: Guray as a voter from the election list of the municipality of Luna,
while in the present quo warranto proceeding, the object of the
The question to be solved under the first assignment of error is litigation, or the litigious matter is his exclusion or expulsion from
whether or not the judgment rendered in the case of the petition the office to which he has been elected. Neither does there exist,
for the exclusion of Norberto Gurays name from the election list of then, any identity in the object of the litigation, or the litigious
Luna, is res judicata, so as to prevent the institution and matter.
prosecution of an action in quo warranto, which is now before us.
In said case of the petition for exclusion, the cause of action was
The procedure prescribed by section 437 of the Administrative that Norberto Guray had not the six months legal residence in the
Code, as amended by Act No. 3387, is of a summary character and municipality of Luna to be a qualified voter thereof, while in the
the judgment rendered therein is not appealable except when the present proceeding of quo warranto, the cause of action is that
petition is tried before the justice of the peace of the capital or the Norberto Guray has not the one years legal residence required for
circuit judge, in which case it may be appealed to the judge of first eligibility to the office of municipal president of Luna. Neither does
instance, with whom said two lower judges have concurrent there exist therefore, identity of causes of action.
jurisdiction.
In order that res judicata may exist the following are necessary: (a)
The petition for exclusion was presented by Gregorio Nuval in his identity of parties; (b) identity of things; and (c) identity of issues
dual capacity as qualified voter of the municipality of Luna, and as (Aquino vs. Director of Lands, 39 Phil. 850). And as in the case of
a duly registered candidate for the office of president of said the petition for exclusion and in the present quo
municipality, against Norberto Guray as a registered voter in the warranto proceeding, as there is no identity of parties, or of things
election list of said municipality. The present proceeding of quo or litigious matter, or of issues or causes of action, there is no res
warranto was interposed by Gregorio Nuval in his capacity as a judicata.
registered candidate voted for the office of municipal president of
The Second Issue.
Luna, against Norberto Guray, as an elected candidate for the same
Was DOMINO a resident of the Province of Sarangani for at least actual removal or an actual change of domicile; a bona
one year immediately preceding the 11 May 1998 election as fide intention of abandoning the former place of residence and
stated in his certificate of candidacy? establishing a new one and definite acts which correspond with the
purpose.[26] In other words, there must basically be animus
We hold in the negative. manendi coupled with animus non revertendi. The purpose to
remain in or at the domicile of choice must be for an indefinite
It is doctrinally settled that the term residence, as used in the law period of time; the change of residence must be voluntary; and the
prescribing the qualifications for suffrage and for elective office, residence at the place chosen for the new domicile must be
means the same thing as domicile, which imports not only an actual.[27]
intention to reside in a fixed place but also personal presence in
that place, coupled with conduct indicative of such It is the contention of petitioner that his actual physical presence
intention.[21] Domicile denotes a fixed permanent residence to in Alabel, Sarangani since December 1996 was sufficiently
which, whenever absent for business, pleasure, or some other established by the lease of a house and lot located therein in
reasons, one intends to return.[22] Domicile is a question of January 1997 and by the affidavits and certifications under oath of
intention and circumstances. In the consideration of the residents of that place that they have seen petitioner and his
circumstances, three rules must be borne in mind, namely: (1) that family residing in their locality.
a man must have a residence or domicile somewhere; (2) when
once established it remains until a new one is acquired; and (3) a While this may be so, actual and physical is not in itself sufficient to
man can have but one residence or domicile at a time.[23] show that from said date he had transferred his residence in that
place. To establish a new domicile of choice, personal presence in
Records show that petitioners domicile of origin was Candon, Ilocos the place must be coupled with conduct indicative of that
Sur[24] and that sometime in 1991, he acquired a new domicile of intention. While residence simply requires bodily presence in a
choice at 24 Bonifacio St. Ayala Heights, Old Balara, Quezon City, as given place, domicile requires not only such bodily presence in that
shown by his certificate of candidacy for the position of place but also a declared and probable intent to make it ones fixed
representative of the 3rd District of Quezon City in the May 1995 and permanent place of abode, ones home.[28]
election. Petitioner is now claiming that he had effectively
abandoned his residence in Quezon City and has established a new As a general rule, the principal elements of domicile, physical
domicile of choice at the Province of Sarangani. presence in the locality involved and intention to adopt it as a
domicile, must concur in order to establish a new domicile. No
A persons domicile once established is considered to continue and change of domicile will result if either of these elements is
will not be deemed lost until a new one is established.[25] To absent. Intention to acquire a domicile without actual residence in
successfully effect a change of domicile one must demonstrate an
the locality does not result in acquisition of domicile, nor does the While, Dominos intention to establish residence in Sarangani can
fact of physical presence without intention.[29] be gleaned from the fact that be bought the house he was renting
on November 4, 1997, that he sought cancellation of his previous
The lease contract entered into sometime in January 1997, does registration in Quezon City on 22 October 1997,[34] and that he
not adequately support a change of domicile. The lease contract applied for transfer of registration from Quezon City to Sarangani
may be indicative of DOMINOs intention to reside in Sarangani but by reason of change of residence on 30 August 1997,[35] DOMINO
it does not engender the kind of permanency required to prove still falls short of the one year residency requirement under the
abandonment of ones original domicile. The mere absence of Constitution.
individual from his permanent residence, no matter how long,
without the intention to abandon it does not result in loss or In showing compliance with the residency requirement, both intent
change of domicile.[30] Thus the date of the contract of lease of a and actual presence in the district one intends to represent must
house and lot located in the province of Sarangani, i.e., 15 January satisfy the length of time prescribed by the fundamental
1997, cannot be used, in the absence of other circumstances, as law.[36] Dominos failure to do so rendered him ineligible and his
the reckoning period of the one-year residence requirement. election to office null and void.[37]
Owing to the superior interest in ensuring a credible and orderly Petitioner has submitted to this Court mere photocopies of various
election, the State could exclude nuisance candidates and need not documents purportedly evincing his credentials as an eligible
indulge in, as the song goes, "their trips to the moon on gossamer candidate for the presidency. Yet this Court, not being a trier of
wings." facts, can not properly pass upon the reproductions as evidence at
this level. Neither the COMELEC nor the Solicitor General appended
The Omnibus Election Code and COMELEC Resolution No. 6452 are any document to their respective Comments.
cognizant of the compelling State interest to ensure orderly and
credible elections by excising impediments thereto, such as The question of whether a candidate is a nuisance candidate or not
nuisance candidacies that distract and detract from the larger is both legal and factual. The basis of the factual determination is
purpose. The COMELEC is mandated by the Constitution with the not before this Court. Thus, the remand of this case for the
administration of elections16 and endowed with considerable reception of further evidence is in order.
latitude in adopting means and methods that will ensure the
promotion of free, orderly and honest elections.17 Moreover, the A word of caution is in order. What is at stake is petitioner’s
Constitution guarantees that only bona fide candidates for public aspiration and offer to serve in the government. It deserves not a
cursory treatment but a hearing which conforms to the
requirements of due process.
IN VIEW OF THE FOREGOING, COMELEC Case No. SPP (MP) No. 04-
001 is hereby remanded to the COMELEC for the reception of
further evidence, to determine the question on whether petitioner
Elly Velez Lao Pamatong is a nuisance candidate as contemplated
in Section 69 of the Omnibus Election Code.
SO ORDERED.
ARMANDO G. YRASUEGUI, G.R. No. 168081 services of the company physician should he wish to do so. He was
Petitioner, advised that his case will be evaluated on July 3, 1989.[2]
PHILIPPINE AIRLINES, INC.,
Respondent. October 17, 2008
The Facts On February 25, 1989, petitioner underwent weight check. It was
discovered that he gained, instead of losing, weight. He was
Petitioner Armando G. Yrasuegui was a former international flight overweight at 215 pounds, which is 49 pounds beyond the
steward of Philippine Airlines, Inc. (PAL). He stands five feet and limit. Consequently, his off-duty status was retained.
eight inches (58) with a large body frame. The proper weight for a
man of his height and body structure is from 147 to 166 On October 17, 1989, PAL Line Administrator
pounds, the ideal weight being 166 pounds, as mandated by the Gloria Dizon personally visited petitioner at his residence to check
Cabin and Crew Administration Manual[1] of PAL. on the progress of his effort to lose weight. Petitioner weighed 217
pounds, gaining 2 pounds from his previous weight. After the visit,
The weight problem of petitioner dates back to 1984. Back petitioner made a commitment[3] to reduce weight in a letter
then, PAL advised him to go on an extended vacation leave addressed to Cabin Crew Group Manager AugustoBarrios. The
from December 29, 1984 to March 4, 1985 to address his weight letter, in full, reads:
concerns. Apparently, petitioner failed to meet the companys
weight standards, prompting another leave without pay Dear Sir:
from March 5, 1985 to November 1985.
I would like to guaranty my commitment towards a weight loss
After meeting the required weight, petitioner was allowed to from 217 pounds to 200 pounds from today until 31 Dec.
return to work. But petitioners weight problem recurred. He again 1989. From thereon, I promise to continue reducing at a
went on leave without pay from October 17, 1988to February reasonable percentage until such time that my ideal weight is
1989. achieved. Likewise, I promise to personally report to your office at
the designated time schedule you will set for my weight check.
On April 26, 1989, petitioner weighed 209 pounds, 43 pounds over
his ideal weight. In line with company policy, he was removed from Respectfully Yours,
flight duty effective May 6, 1989 to July 3, 1989. He was formally
requested to trim down to his ideal weight and report for weight F/S Armando Yrasuegui[4]
checks on several dates. He was also told that he may avail of the
Despite the lapse of a ninety-day period given him to reach his ideal On November 13, 1992, PAL finally served petitioner a Notice of
weight, petitioner remained overweight. On January 3, 1990, he Administrative Charge for violation of company standards on
was informed of the PAL decision for him to remain grounded until weight requirements. He was given ten (10) days from receipt of
such time that he satisfactorily complies with the weight the charge within which to file his answer and
standards. Again, he was directed to report every two weeks for submit controverting evidence.[8]
weight checks.
On December 7, 1992, petitioner submitted his Answer.[9] Notably,
Petitioner failed to report for weight checks. Despite that, he was he did not deny being overweight. What he claimed, instead, is that
given one more month to comply with the weight requirement. As his violation, if any, had already been condoned by PAL since no
usual, he was asked to report for weight check on different action has been taken by the company regarding his case since
dates. He was reminded that his grounding would continue 1988. He also claimed that PAL discriminated against him because
pending satisfactory compliance with the weight standards.[5] the company has not been fair in treating the cabin crew members
Again, petitioner failed to report for weight checks, although he who are similarly situated.
was seen submitting his passport for processing at the PAL Staff
Service Division. On December 8, 1992, a clarificatory hearing was held where
petitioner manifested that he was undergoing a weight reduction
On April 17, 1990, petitioner was formally warned that a repeated program to lose at least two (2) pounds per week so as to attain his
refusal to report for weight check would be dealt with ideal weight.[10]
accordingly. He was given another set of weight check
dates.[6] Again, petitioner ignored the directive and did not report On June 15, 1993, petitioner was formally informed by PAL that
for weight checks. On June 26, 1990, petitioner was required to due to his inability to attain his ideal weight, and considering the
explain his refusal to undergo weight checks.[7] utmost leniency extended to him which spanned a period covering
a total of almost five (5) years, his services were considered
When petitioner tipped the scale on July 30, 1990, he weighed terminated effective immediately.[11]
at 212 pounds. Clearly, he was still way over his ideal weight of 166
pounds. His motion for reconsideration having been denied,[12] petitioner
filed a complaint for illegal dismissal against PAL.
From then on, nothing was heard from petitioner until he followed
up his case requesting for leniency on the latter part of 1992. He Labor Arbiter, NLRC and CA Dispositions
weighed at 219 pounds on August 20, 1992and 205
pounds on November 5, 1992.
On November 18, 1998, Labor Arbiter Valentin C. Reyes On October 8, 1999, the Labor Arbiter issued a writ of execution
ruled[13] that petitioner was illegally dismissed. The dispositive part directing the reinstatement of petitioner without loss of seniority
of the Arbiter ruling runs as follows: rights and other benefits.[20]
WHEREFORE, in view of the foregoing, judgment is hereby On February 1, 2000, the Labor Arbiter denied[21] the Motion to
rendered, declaring the complainant’s dismissal illegal, and Quash Writ of Execution[22] of PAL.
ordering the respondent to reinstate him to his former position or
substantially equivalent one, and to pay him: On March 6, 2000, PAL appealed the denial of its motion to quash
to the NLRC.[23]
a. Backwages of Php10,500.00 per month from his dismissal
on June 15, 1993 until reinstated, which for purposes of appeal is On June 23, 2000, the NLRC rendered judgment[24] in the following
hereby set from June 15, 1993 up to August 15, tenor:
1998 at P651,000.00;
WHEREFORE, premises considered[,] the Decision of the Arbiter
b. Attorneys fees of five percent (5%) of the total award. dated 18 November 1998 as modified by our findings herein, is
hereby AFFIRMED and that part of the dispositive portion of said
SO ORDERED.[14] decision concerning complainants entitlement to backwages shall
be deemed to refer to complainants entitlement to his
The Labor Arbiter held that the weight standards of PAL are full backwages, inclusive of allowances and to his other benefits or
reasonable in view of the nature of the job of their monetary equivalent instead of simply backwages, from date
petitioner.[15] However, the weight standards need not be of dismissal until his actual reinstatement or finality hereof.
complied with under pain of dismissal since his weight did not Respondent is enjoined to manifests (sic) its choice of the form of
hamper the performance of his duties.[16] Assuming that it did, the reinstatement of complainant, whether physical or through
petitioner could be transferred to other positions where his weight payroll within ten (10) days from notice failing which, the same
would not be a negative factor.[17] Notably, other overweight shall be deemed as complainants reinstatement through payroll
employees, i.e., Mr. Palacios, Mr. Cui, and Mr. Barrios, were and execution in case of non-payment shall accordingly be issued
promoted instead of being disciplined.[18] by the Arbiter. Both appeals of respondent thus,
are DISMISSED for utter lack of merit.[25]
Both parties appealed to the National Labor Relations Commission
(NLRC).[19]
According to the NLRC, obesity, or the tendency to gain weight considerations[33] in evaluating the
uncontrollably regardless of the amount of food intake, is a disease evidence of theparties. Contrary to the NLRC ruling, the weight
in itself.[26] As a consequence, there can be no intentional defiance standards of PAL are meant to be a continuing qualification for an
or serious misconduct by petitioner to the lawful order of PAL for employees position.[34] The failure to adhere to the weight
him to lose weight.[27] standards is an analogous cause for the dismissal of an employee
under Article 282(e) of the Labor Code in relation to Article
282(a). It is not willful disobedience as the NLRC seemed to
suggest.[35] Said the CA, the element of willfulness that the NLRC
Like the Labor Arbiter, the NLRC found the weight standards decision cites is an irrelevant consideration in arriving at a
of PAL to be reasonable. However, it found as unnecessary the conclusion on whether the dismissal is legally proper.[36] In other
Labor Arbiter holding that petitioner was not remiss in the words, the relevant question to ask is not one of willfulness but one
performance of his duties as flight steward despite being of reasonableness of the standard and whether or not the
overweight. According to the NLRC, the Labor Arbiter should have employee qualifies or continues to qualify under this standard.[37]
limited himself to the issue of whether the failure of petitioner to
attain his ideal weight constituted willful defiance of the weight Just like the Labor Arbiter and the NLRC, the CA held that the
standards of PAL.[28] weight standards of PAL are reasonable.[38] Thus, petitioner was
legally dismissed because he repeatedly failed to meet the
PAL moved for reconsideration to no avail.[29] Thus, PAL elevated prescribed weight standards.[39] It is obvious that the issue of
the matter to the Court of Appeals (CA) via a petition discrimination was only invoked by petitioner for purposes of
for certiorari under Rule 65 of the 1997 Rules of Civil Procedure.[30] escaping the result of his dismissal for being overweight.[40]
By Decision dated August 31, 2004, the CA reversed[31] the NLRC: On May 10, 2005, the CA denied petitioners motion for
reconsideration.[41] Elaborating on its earlier ruling, the CA held
WHEREFORE, premises considered, we hereby GRANT the that the weight standards of PAL are a bona fide occupational
petition. The assailed NLRC decision is declared NULL and VOID and qualification which, in case of violation, justifies an employees
is hereby SET ASIDE. The private respondents complaint is hereby separation from the service.[42]
DISMISSED. No costs.
Issues
SO ORDERED.[32]
In this Rule 45 petition for review, the following issues are posed
The CA opined that there was grave abuse of discretion on the part for resolution:
of the NLRC because it looked at wrong and irrelevant
I. I. The obesity of petitioner is a ground for dismissal under Article
282(e) [44] of the Labor Code.
WHETHER OR NOT THE COURT OF APPEALS GRAVELY ERRED IN
HOLDING THAT PETITIONERS OBESITY CAN BE A GROUND FOR A reading of the weight standards of PAL would lead to no other
DISMISSAL UNDER PARAGRAPH (e) OF ARTICLE 282 OF THE LABOR conclusion than that they constitute a continuing qualification of
CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES; an employee in order to keep the job. Tersely put, an employee
may be dismissed the moment he is unable to comply with his ideal
weight as prescribed by the weight standards. The dismissal of the
employee would thus fall under Article 282(e) of the Labor Code. As
II. explained by the CA:
WHETHER OR NOT THE COURT OF APPEALS GRAVELY ERRED IN x x x [T]he standards violated in this case were not mere orders of
HOLDING THAT PETITIONERS DISMISSAL FOR OBESITY CAN BE the employer; they were the prescribed weights that a cabin crew
PREDICATED ON THE BONA FIDE OCCUPATIONAL QUALIFICATION must maintain in order to qualify for and keep his or her position
(BFOQ) DEFENSE; in the company. In other words, they were standards that
establish continuing qualifications for an employees position. In
III. this sense, the failure to maintain these standards does not fall
under Article 282(a) whose express terms require the element of
WHETHER OR NOT THE COURT OF APPEALS GRAVELY ERRED IN willfulness in order to be a ground for dismissal. The failure to meet
HOLDING THAT PETITIONER WAS NOT UNDULY DISCRIMINATED the employers qualifying standards is in fact a ground that does
AGAINST WHEN HE WAS DISMISSED WHILE OTHER OVERWEIGHT not squarely fall under grounds (a) to (d) and is therefore one that
CABIN ATTENDANTS WERE EITHER GIVEN FLYING DUTIES OR falls under Article 282(e) the other causes analogous to the
PROMOTED; foregoing.
IV. By its nature, these qualifying standards are norms that apply prior
to and after an employee is hired. They apply prior to
WHETHER OR NOT THE COURT OF APPEALS GRAVELY ERRED WHEN employment because these are the standards a job applicant must
IT BRUSHED ASIDE PETITIONERS CLAIMS FOR REINSTATEMENT initially meet in order to be hired. They apply after hiring because
[AND] WAGES ALLEGEDLY FOR BEING an employee must continue to meet these standards while on the
MOOT AND ACADEMIC.[43] (Underscoring supplied) job in order to keep his job. Under this perspective, a violation is
not one of the faults for which an employee can be dismissed
Our Ruling pursuant to pars. (a) to (d) of Article 282; the employee can be
dismissed simply because he no longer qualifies for his job cannot apply here. Third, in Nadura, the employee who was
irrespective of whether or not the failure to qualify was willful or a miner, was laid off from work because of illness, i.e.,
intentional. x x x[45] asthma. Here, petitioner was dismissed for his failure to meet the
weight standards of PAL. He was not dismissed due to
Petitioner, though, advances a very interesting argument. He illness. Fourth, the issue in Nadura is whether or not the dismissed
claims that obesity is a physical abnormality and/or employee is entitled to separation pay and damages. Here, the
illness.[46] Relying on Nadura v. Benguet Consolidated, Inc.,[47] he issue centers on the propriety of the dismissal of petitioner for his
says his dismissal is illegal: failure to meet the weight standards of PAL. Fifth, in Nadura, the
employee was not accorded due process. Here, petitioner was
Conscious of the fact that Naduras case cannot be made to accorded utmost leniency. He was given more than four (4) years
fall squarely within the specific causes enumerated in to comply with the weight standards of PAL.
subparagraphs 1(a) to (e), Benguet invokes the provisions of
subparagraph 1(f) and says that Naduras illness occasional attacks In the case at bar, the evidence on record militates against
of asthma is a cause analogous to them. petitioners claims that obesity is a disease. That he was able to
reduce his weight from 1984 to 1992 clearly shows that it is
Even a cursory reading of the legal provision under consideration is possible for him to lose weight given the proper attitude,
sufficient to convince anyone that, as the trial court determination, and self-discipline. Indeed, during
said, illness cannot be included as an analogous cause by any the clarificatory hearing on December 8, 1992, petitioner himself
stretch of imagination. claimed that [t]he issue is could I bring my weight down to ideal
weight which is 172, then the answer is yes. I can do it now.[49]
It is clear that, except the just cause mentioned in sub-paragraph
1(a), all the others expressly enumerated in the law are due to the True, petitioner claims that reducing weight is costing him a lot of
voluntary and/or willful act of the employee. How Naduras illness expenses.[50] However, petitioner has only himself to blame. He
could be considered as analogous to any of them is beyond our could have easily availed the assistance of the company physician,
understanding, there being no claim or pretense that the same was per the advice of PAL.[51] He chose to ignore the suggestion. In fact,
contracted through his own voluntary act.[48] he repeatedly failed to report when required to undergo weight
checks, without offering a valid explanation. Thus, his fluctuating
The reliance on Nadura is off-tangent. The factual milieu weight indicates absence of willpower rather than an illness.
in Nadura is substantially different from the case at
bar. First, Nadura was not decided under the Labor Code. The law Petitioner cites Bonnie Cook v. State of Rhode Island, Department
applied in that case was Republic Act (RA) No. 1787. Second, the of Mental Health, Retardation and
issue of flight safety is absent in Nadura, thus, the rationale there Hospitals,[52] decided by the United States Court of Appeals (First
Circuit). In that case, Cook worked from 1978 to 1980 and from thus mutability only precludes those conditions that an individual
1981 to 1986 as an institutional attendant for the mentally can easily and quickly reverse by behavioral alteration.
retarded at the Ladd Center that was being operated by
respondent. She twice resigned voluntarily with an unblemished Unlike Cook, however, petitioner is not morbidly obese. In the
record. Even respondent admitted that her performance met the words of the District Court for the District of Rhode Island, Cook
Centers legitimate expectations. In 1988, Cook re-applied for a was sometime before 1978 at least one hundred pounds more than
similar position. At that time, she stood 52 tall and weighed over what is considered appropriate of her height. According to the
320 pounds. Respondent claimed that the morbid obesity of Circuit Judge, Cook weighed over 320 pounds in 1988. Clearly, that
plaintiff compromised her ability to evacuate patients in case of is not the case here. At his heaviest, petitioner was only less than
emergency and it also put her at greater risk of serious diseases. 50 pounds over his ideal weight.
Cook contended that the action of respondent amounted to In fine, We hold that the obesity of petitioner, when placed in the
discrimination on the basis of a handicap. This was in direct context of his work as flight attendant, becomes an analogous
violation of Section 504(a) of the Rehabilitation Act of cause under Article 282(e) of the Labor Code that justifies his
1973,[53] which incorporates the remedies contained in Title VI of dismissal from the service. His obesity may not be unintended, but
the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Respondent claimed, however, that is nonetheless voluntary. As the CA correctly puts it,
morbid obesity could never constitute a handicap within the [v]oluntariness basically means that the just cause is solely
purview of the Rehabilitation Act. Among others, obesity is a attributable to the employee without any external force
mutable condition, thus plaintiff could simply lose weight and rid influencing or controlling his actions. This element runs through all
herself of concomitant disability. just causes under Article 282, whether they be in the nature of a
wrongful action or omission. Gross and habitual neglect, a
The appellate Court disagreed and held that morbid obesity is a recognized just cause, is considered voluntary although it lacks the
disability under the Rehabilitation Act and that respondent element of intent found in Article 282(a), (c), and (d).[54]
discriminated against Cook based on perceived disability. The
evidence included expert testimony that morbid obesity is a II. The dismissal of petitioner can be predicated on the bona fide
physiological disorder. It involves a dysfunction of both the occupational qualification defense.
metabolic system and the neurological appetite suppressing signal
system, which is capable of causing adverse effects within the Employment in particular jobs may not be limited to persons of a
musculoskeletal, respiratory, and cardiovascular systems. Notably, particular sex, religion, or national origin unless the employer can
the Court stated that mutability is relevant only in determining the show that sex, religion, or national origin is an actual qualification
substantiality of the limitation flowing from a given impairment, for performing the job. The qualification is called a bona fide
occupational qualification (BFOQ).[55] In the United States, there
are a few federal and many state job discrimination laws that qualification would be unable to properly perform the duties of the
contain an exception allowing an employer to engage in an job.[67]
otherwise unlawful form of prohibited discrimination when the
action is based on a BFOQ necessary to the normal operation of a In short, the test of reasonableness of the company policy is used
business or enterprise.[56] because it is parallel to BFOQ.[68] BFOQ is
valid provided it reflects an inherent quality reasonably necessary
Petitioner contends that BFOQ is a statutory defense. It does not for satisfactory job performance.[69]
exist if there is no statute providing for it.[57] Further, there is no
existing BFOQ statute that could justify his dismissal.[58] In Duncan Association of Detailman-PTGWTO
[70]
v. Glaxo Wellcome Philippines, Inc., the Court did not hesitate to
Both arguments must fail. pass upon the validity of a company policy which prohibits its
employees from marrying employees of a rival company. It was
First, the Constitution,[59] the Labor Code,[60] and RA No. 7277[61] or held that the company policy is reasonable considering that its
the Magna Carta for Disabled Persons[62] contain provisions similar purpose is the protection of the interests of the company against
to BFOQ. possible competitor infiltration on its trade secrets and procedures.
Second, in British Columbia Public Service Employee Commission Verily, there is no merit to the argument that BFOQ cannot be
(BSPSERC) v. The British Columbia Government and Service applied if it has no supporting statute. Too, the Labor
Employees Union (BCGSEU),[63] the Supreme Court of Canada Arbiter,[71] NLRC,[72] and CA[73] are one in holding that the weight
adopted the so-called Meiorin Test in determining whether an standards of PAL are reasonable. A common carrier, from the
employment policy is justified. Under this test, (1) the employer nature of its business and for reasons of public policy, is bound to
must show that it adopted the standard for a purpose rationally observe extraordinary diligence for the safety of the passengers it
connected to the performance of the job;[64] (2) the employer must transports.[74] It is bound to carry its passengers safely as far as
establish that the standard is reasonably necessary[65] to the human care and foresight can provide, using the utmost diligence
accomplishment of that work-related purpose; and (3) the of very cautious persons, with due regard for all the
employer must establish that the standard is reasonably necessary circumstances.[75]
in order to accomplish the legitimate work-related
purpose. Similarly, in Star Paper Corporation v. Simbol,[66] this The law leaves no room for mistake or oversight on the part of a
Court held that in order to justify a BFOQ, the employer must prove common carrier. Thus, it is only logical to hold that the weight
that (1) the employment qualification is reasonably related to the standards of PAL show its effort to comply with the exacting
essential operation of the job involved; and (2) that there is factual obligations imposed upon it by law by virtue of being a common
basis for believing that all or substantially all persons meeting the carrier.
The business of PAL is air transportation. As such, it has committed airlines flight attendants are overweight or not has no direct
itself to safely transport its passengers. In order to achieve this, it relation to its mission of transporting passengers to their
must necessarily rely on its employees, most particularly the cabin destination; and that the weight standards has nothing to do with
flight deck crew who are on board the aircraft. The weight airworthiness of respondents airlines, must fail.
standards of PAL should be viewed as imposing strict norms of
discipline upon its employees. The rationale in Western Air Lines v. Criswell[76] relied upon by
petitioner cannot apply to his case. What was involved there were
In other words, the primary objective of PAL in the imposition of two (2) airline pilots who were denied reassignment as flight
the weight standards for cabin crew is flight safety. It cannot be engineers upon reaching the age of 60, and a flight engineer who
gainsaid that cabin attendants must maintain agility at all times in was forced to retire at age 60. They sued the airline company,
order to inspire passenger confidence on their ability to care for alleging that the age-60 retirement for flight engineers violated the
the passengers when something goes wrong. It is not farfetched to Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967. Age-based BFOQ
say that airline companies, just like all common carriers, thrive due and being overweight are not the same. The case of overweight
to public confidence on their safety records. People, especially the cabin attendants is another matter. Given the cramped cabin space
riding public, expect no less than that airline companies transport and narrow aisles and emergency exit doors of the airplane, any
their passengers to their respective destinations safely and overweight cabin attendant would certainly have difficulty
soundly. A lesser performance is unacceptable. navigating the cramped cabin area.
The task of a cabin crew or flight attendant is not limited to serving In short, there is no need to individually evaluate their ability to
meals or attending to the whims and caprices of the perform their task. That an obese cabin attendant occupies more
passengers. The most important activity of the cabin crew is to care space than a slim one is an unquestionable fact which courts can
for the safety of passengers and the evacuation of the aircraft when judicially recognize without introduction of evidence.[77] It would
an emergency occurs. Passenger safety goes to the core of the job also be absurd to require airline companies to reconfigure the
of a cabin attendant. Truly, airlines need cabin attendants who aircraft in order to widen the aisles and exit doors just to
have the necessary strength to open emergency doors, the agility accommodate overweight cabin attendants like petitioner.
to attend to passengers in cramped working conditions, and the
stamina to withstand grueling flight schedules. The biggest problem with an overweight cabin attendant is the
possibility of impeding passengers from evacuating the aircraft,
On board an aircraft, the body weight and size of a cabin attendant should the occasion call for it. The job of a cabin attendant during
are important factors to consider in case of emergency. Aircrafts emergencies is to speedily get the passengers out of the aircraft
have constricted cabin space, and narrow aisles and exit safely. Being overweight necessarily impedes mobility. Indeed, in
doors. Thus, the arguments of respondent that [w]hether the an emergency situation, seconds are what cabin attendants are
dealing with, not minutes. Three lost seconds can translate into the consequence of dismissal that being overweight entailed. It is a
three lost lives. Evacuation might slow down just because a wide- confession-and-avoidance position that impliedly admitted the
bodied cabin attendant is blocking the narrow aisles. These cause of dismissal, including the reasonableness of the applicable
possibilities are not remote. standard and the private respondents failure to comply.[80] It is a
basic rule in evidence that each party must prove his affirmative
Petitioner is also in estoppel. He does not dispute that the weight allegation.[81]
standards of PAL were made known to him prior to his
employment. He is presumed to know the weight limit that he must Since the burden of evidence lies with the party who asserts an
maintain at all times.[78] In affirmative allegation, petitioner has to prove his allegation with
fact, never did he question the authority of PAL when he was particularity. There is nothing on the records which could support
repeatedly asked to trim down his weight. Bona the finding of discriminatory treatment. Petitioner cannot establish
fides exigit ut quod convenit fiat. Good faith demands that what is discrimination by simply naming the supposed cabin attendants
agreed upon shall be who are allegedly similarly situated with him. Substantial proof
done. Kung ang tao ay tapat kanyang tutuparin ang napagkasun must be shown as to how and why they are similarly situated and
duan. the differential treatment petitioner got from PAL despite the
similarity of his situation with other employees.
Too, the weight standards of PAL provide for separate weight
limitations based on height and body frame for both male and Indeed, except for pointing out the names of the supposed
female cabin attendants. A progressive discipline is imposed to overweight cabin attendants, petitioner miserably failed to
allow non-compliant cabin attendants sufficient opportunity to indicate their respective ideal weights; weights over their ideal
meet the weight standards. Thus, the clear-cut rules obviate any weights; the periods they were allowed to fly despite their being
possibility for the commission of abuse or arbitrary action on the overweight; the particular flights assigned to them; the
part of PAL. discriminating treatment they got from PAL; and other relevant
data that could have adequately established a case of
III. Petitioner failed to substantiate his claim that he was discriminatory treatment by PAL. In the words of the CA, PAL really
discriminated against by PAL. had no substantial case of discrimination to meet.[82]
Petitioner next claims that PAL is using passenger safety as a We are not unmindful that findings of facts of administrative
convenient excuse to discriminate against him.[79] We are agencies, like the Labor Arbiter and the NLRC, are accorded
constrained, however, to hold otherwise. We agree with the CA respect, even finality.[83] The reason is simple: administrative
that [t]he element of discrimination came into play in this case as a agencies are experts in matters within their specific and specialized
secondary position for the private respondent in order to escape jurisdiction.[84] But the principle is not a hard and fast rule. It only
applies if the findings of facts are duly supported by substantial At this point, Article 223 of the Labor Code finds relevance:
evidence. If it can be shown that administrative bodies
grossly misappreciated evidence of such nature so as to compel a In any event, the decision of the Labor Arbiter reinstating a
conclusion to the contrary, their findings of facts must necessarily dismissed or separated employee, insofar as the reinstatement
be reversed. Factual findings of administrative agencies do not aspect is concerned, shall immediately be executory, even pending
have infallibility and must be set aside when they fail the test of appeal. The employee shall either be admitted back to work under
arbitrariness.[85] the same terms and conditions prevailing prior to his dismissal or
separation or, at the option of the employer, merely reinstated in
Here, the Labor Arbiter and the NLRC the payroll. The posting of a bond by the employer shall not stay
inexplicably misappreciated evidence. We thus annul their the execution for reinstatement provided herein.
findings.
The law is very clear. Although an award or order of reinstatement
To make his claim more believable, petitioner invokes the equal is self-executory and does not require a writ of execution,[93] the
protection clause guaranty[86] of the Constitution. However, in the option to exercise actual reinstatement or payroll reinstatement
absence of governmental interference, the liberties guaranteed by belongs to the employer. It does not belong to the employee, to
the Constitution cannot be invoked.[87] Put differently, the Bill of the labor tribunals, or even to the courts.
Rights is not meant to be invoked against acts of private
individuals.[88] Indeed, the United States Supreme Court, in Contrary to the allegation of petitioner that PAL did everything
interpreting the Fourteenth Amendment,[89] which is the source of under the sun to frustrate his immediate return to his previous
our equal protection guarantee, is consistent in saying that position,[94] there is evidence that PAL opted to physically reinstate
the equal protection erects no shield against private conduct, him to a substantially equivalent position in accordance with the
however discriminatory or wrongful.[90] Private actions, no matter order of the Labor
how egregious, cannot violate the equal protection guarantee.[91] Arbiter.[95] In fact, petitioner duly received the return to work
notice on February 23, 2001, as shown by his signature.[96]
IV. The claims of petitioner for reinstatement and wages are
moot. Petitioner cannot take refuge in the pronouncements of the Court
in a case[97] that [t]he unjustified refusal of the employer to
As his last contention, petitioner avers that his claims for reinstate the dismissed employee entitles him to payment of his
reinstatement and wages have not been mooted. He is entitled to salaries effective from the time the employer failed to reinstate
reinstatement and his full backwages, from the time he was him despite the issuance of a writ of execution[98] and even if the
illegally dismissed up to the time that the NLRC was reversed by the order of reinstatement of the Labor Arbiter is reversed on appeal,
CA.[92] it is obligatory on the part of the employer to reinstate and pay the
wages of the employee during the period of appeal until reversal misconduct; and (2) does not reflect on the moral character of the
by the higher court.[99] He failed to prove that he complied with the employee.[103]
return to work order of PAL. Neither does it
appear on record that he actually rendered services for PAL from Here, We grant petitioner separation pay equivalent to one-half
the moment he was dismissed, in order to insist on the payment of (1/2) months pay for every year of service.[104] It should include
his full backwages. regular allowances which he might have been receiving.[105] We are
not blind to the fact that he was not dismissed for any serious
misconduct or to any act which would reflect on his moral
character. We also recognize that his employment with PAL lasted
In insisting that he be reinstated to his actual position despite being for more or less a decade.
overweight, petitioner in effect wants to render the issues in the
present case moot. He asks PAL to comply with the WHEREFORE, the appealed Decision of the Court of Appeals
impossible. Time and again, the Court ruled that the law does not is AFFIRMED but MODIFIED in that petitioner Armando
exact compliance with the impossible.[100] G. Yrasuegui is entitled to separation pay in an amount equivalent
to one-half (1/2) months pay for every year of service, which
V. Petitioner is entitled to separation pay. should include his regular allowances.
G.R. No. 196271 February 28, 2012 The petitioners in G.R. No. 196271 raise the following grounds in
support of their motion:
DATU MICHAEL ABAS KIDA Petitioners,
vs. I. THE HONORABLE COURT ERRED IN CONCLUDING THAT THE
SENATE OF THE PHILIPPINES, Respondents. ARMM ELECTIONS ARE LOCAL ELECTIONS, CONSIDERING THAT THE
CONSTITUTION GIVES THE ARMM A SPECIAL STATUS AND IS
We resolve: (a) the motion for reconsideration filed by petitioners SEPARATE AND DISTINCT FROM ORDINARY LOCAL GOVERNMENT
Datu Michael Abas Kida, et al. in G.R. No. 196271; (b) the motion UNITS.
for reconsideration filed by petitioner Rep. Edcel Lagman in G.R.
No. 197221; (c) the ex abundante ad cautelam motion for II. R.A. 10153 AND R.A. 9333 AMEND THE ORGANIC ACT.
reconsideration filed by petitioner Basari Mapupuno in G.R. No.
196305; (d) the motion for reconsideration filed by petitioner Atty. III. THE SUPERMAJORITY PROVISIONS OF THE ORGANIC ACT (R.A.
Romulo Macalintal in G.R. No. 197282; (e) the motion for 9054) ARE NOT IRREPEALABLE LAWS.
reconsideration filed by petitioners Almarim Centi Tillah, Datu
Casan Conding Cana and Partido Demokratiko Pilipino Lakas ng IV. SECTION 3, ARTICLE XVII OF R.A. 9054 DOES NOT VIOLATE
Bayan in G.R. No. 197280; (f) the manifestation and motion filed by SECTION 18, ARTICLE X OF THE CONSTITUTION.
petitioners Almarim Centi Tillah, et al. in G.R. No. 197280; and (g)
the very urgent motion to issue clarificatory resolution that the V. BALANCE OF INTERESTS TILT IN FAVOR OF THE DEMOCRATIC
temporary restraining order (TRO) is still existing and effective. PRINCIPLE[.]1
These motions assail our Decision dated October 18, 2011, where The petitioner in G.R. No. 197221 raises similar grounds, arguing
we upheld the constitutionality of Republic Act (RA) No. 10153. that:
Pursuant to the constitutional mandate of synchronization, RA No.
10153 postponed the regional elections in the Autonomous Region
I. THE ELECTIVE REGIONAL EXECUTIVE AND LEGISLATIVE OFFICIALS VI. THE REQUIREMENT OF A SUPERMAJORITY OF ¾ VOTES IN THE
OF ARMM CANNOT BE CONSIDERED AS OR EQUATED WITH THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES AND THE SENATE FOR THE VALIDITY
TRADITIONAL LOCAL GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS IN THE LOCAL OF A SUBSTANTIVE AMENDMENT OR REVISION OF THE ORGANIC
GOVERNMENT UNITS (LGUs) BECAUSE (A) THERE IS NO EXPLICIT ACTS DOES NOT IMPOSE AN IRREPEALABLE LAW.
CONSTITUTIONAL PROVISION ON SUCH PARITY; AND (B) THE
ARMM IS MORE SUPERIOR THAN LGUs IN STRUCTURE, POWERS VII. THE REQUIREMENT OF A PLEBISCITE FOR THE EFFECTIVITY OF
AND AUTONOMY, AND CONSEQUENTLY IS A CLASS OF ITS OWN A SUBSTANTIVE AMENDMENT OR REVISION OF THE ORGANIC ACTS
APART FROM TRADITIONAL LGUs. DOES NOT UNDULY EXPAND THE PLEBISCITE REQUIREMENT OF
THE CONSTITUTION.
II. THE UNMISTAKABLE AND UNEQUIVOCAL CONSTITUTIONAL
MANDATE FOR AN ELECTIVE AND REPRESENTATIVE EXECUTIVE VIII. SYNCHRONIZATION OF THE ARMM ELECTION WITH THE
DEPARTMENT AND LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY IN ARMM NATIONAL AND LOCAL ELECTIONS IS NOT MANDATED BY THE
INDUBITABLY PRECLUDES THE APPOINTMENT BY THE PRESIDENT CONSTITUTION.
OF OFFICERS-IN-CHARGE (OICs), ALBEIT MOMENTARY OR
TEMPORARY, FOR THE POSITIONS OF ARMM GOVERNOR, VICE IX. THE COMELEC HAS THE AUTHORITY TO HOLD AND CONDUCT
GOVERNOR AND MEMBERS OF THE REGIONAL ASSEMBLY. SPECIAL ELECTIONS IN ARMM, AND THE ENACTMENT OF AN
IMPROVIDENT AND UNCONSTITUTIONAL STATUTE IS AN
III. THE PRESIDENT’S APPOINTING POWER IS LIMITED TO ANALOGOUS CAUSE WARRANTING COMELEC’S HOLDING OF
APPOINTIVE OFFICIALS AND DOES NOT EXTEND TO ELECTIVE SPECIAL ELECTIONS.2 (italics supplied)
OFFICIALS EVEN AS THE PRESIDENT IS ONLY VESTED WITH
SUPERVISORY POWERS OVER THE ARMM, THEREBY NEGATING THE The petitioner in G.R. No. 196305 further asserts that:
AWESOME POWER TO APPOINT AND REMOVE OICs OCCUPYING
ELECTIVE POSITIONS. I. BEFORE THE COURT MAY CONSTRUE OR INTERPRET A STATUTE,
IT IS A CONDITION SINE QUA NON THAT THERE BE DOUBT OR
IV. THE CONSTITUTION DOES NOT PROSCRIBE THE HOLDOVER OF AMBIGUITY IN ITS LANGUAGE.
ARMM ELECTED OFFICIALS PENDING THE ELECTION AND
QUALIFICATION OF THEIR SUCCESSORS. THE TRANSITORY PROVISIONS HOWEVER ARE CLEAR AND
UNAMBIGUOUS: THEY REFER TO THE 1992 ELECTIONS AND TURN-
V. THE RULING IN OSMENA DOES NOT APPLY TO ARMM ELECTED OVER OF ELECTIVE OFFICIALS.
OFFICIALS WHOSE TERMS OF OFFICE ARE NOT PROVIDED FOR BY
THE CONSTITUTION BUT PRESCRIBED BY THE ORGANIC ACTS. IN THUS RECOGNIZING A SUPPOSED "INTENT" OF THE FRAMERS,
AND APPLYING THE SAME TO ELECTIONS 20 YEARS AFTER, THE
HONORABLE SUPREME COURT MAY HAVE VI. THE HONORABLE COURT COMMITTED A SERIOUS ERROR IN
VIOLATED THEFOREMOST RULE IN STATUTORY CONSTRUCTION. UPHOLDING THE APPOINTMENT OF OFFICERS-IN-CHARGE.3 (italics
and underscoring supplied)
xxxx
The petitioner in G.R. No. 197282 contends that:
II. THE HONORABLE COURT SHOULD HAVE CONSIDERED THAT RA
9054, AN ORGANIC ACT, WAS COMPLETE IN ITSELF. HENCE, RA A.
10153 SHOULD BE CONSIDERED TO HAVE BEEN ENACTED
PRECISELY TO AMEND RA 9054. ASSUMING WITHOUT CONCEDING THAT THE APPOINTMENT OF
OICs FOR THE REGIONAL GOVERNMENT OF THE ARMM IS NOT
xxxx UNCONSTITUTIONAL TO BEGIN WITH, SUCH APPOINTMENT OF OIC
REGIONAL OFFICIALS WILL CREATE A FUNDAMENTAL CHANGE IN
III. THE HONORABLE COURT MAY HAVE COMMITTED A SERIOUS THE BASIC STRUCTURE OF THE REGIONAL GOVERNMENT SUCH
ERROR IN DECLARING THE 2/3 VOTING REQUIREMENT SET FORTH THAT R.A. NO. 10153 SHOULD HAVE BEEN SUBMITTED TO A
IN RA 9054 AS UNCONSTITUTIONAL. PLEBISCITE IN THE ARMM FOR APPROVAL BY ITS PEOPLE, WHICH
PLEBISCITE REQUIREMENT CANNOT BE CIRCUMVENTED BY SIMPLY
xxxx CHARACTERIZING THE PROVISIONS OF R.A. NO. 10153 ON
APPOINTMENT OF OICs AS AN "INTERIM MEASURE".
IV. THE HONORABLE COURT MAY HAVE COMMITTED A SERIOUS
ERROR IN HOLDING THAT A PLEBISCITE IS NOT NECESSARY IN B.
AMENDING THE ORGANIC ACT.
THE HONORABLE COURT ERRED IN RULING THAT THE
xxxx APPOINTMENT BY THE PRESIDENT OF OICs FOR THE ARMM
REGIONAL GOVERNMENT IS NOT VIOLATIVE OF THE
V. THE HONORABLE COURT COMMITTED A SERIOUS ERROR IN CONSTITUTION.
DECLARING THE HOLD-OVER OF ARMM ELECTIVE OFFICIALS
UNCONSTITUTIONAL. C.
xxxx THE HOLDOVER PRINCIPLE ADOPTED IN R.A. NO. 9054 DOES NOT
VIOLATE THE CONSTITUTION, AND BEFORE THEIR SUCCESSORS ARE
ELECTED IN EITHER AN ELECTION TO BE HELD AT THE SOONEST
POSSIBLE TIME OR IN MAY 2013, THE SAID INCUMBENT ARMM
REGIONAL OFFICIALS MAY VALIDLY CONTINUE FUNCTIONING AS e) the President only has the power of supervision over
SUCH IN A HOLDOVER CAPACITY IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION autonomous regions, which does not include the power to appoint
7, ARTICLE VII OF R.A. NO. 9054. OICs to take the place of ARMM elective officials; and
b) RA No. 10153 negates the basic principle of republican (c) Is the holdover provision in RA No. 9054 constitutional?
democracy which, by constitutional mandate, guides the
governance of the Republic; (d) Does the COMELEC have the power to call for special elections
in ARMM?
c) RA No. 10153 amends the Organic Act (RA No. 9054) and, thus,
has to comply with the 2/3 vote from the House of Representatives (e) Does granting the President the power to appoint OICs violate
and the Senate, voting separately, and be ratified in a plebiscite; the elective and representative nature of ARMM regional
legislative and executive offices?
d) if the choice is between elective officials continuing to hold their
offices even after their terms are over and non-elective individuals (f) Does the appointment power granted to the President exceed
getting into the vacant elective positions by appointment as OICs, the President’s supervisory powers over autonomous regions?
the holdover option is the better choice;
The Court’s Ruling
Section 5. The six-year term of the incumbent President and Vice- I proposed this because of the proposed section of the Article on
President elected in the February 7, 1986 election is, for purposes Transitory Provisions giving a term to the incumbent President and
of synchronization of elections, hereby extended to noon of June Vice-President until 1992. Necessarily then, since the term
30, 1992. provided by the Commission for Members of the Lower House and
for local officials is three years, if there will be an election in 1987, THE PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. Rodrigo). Commissioner de Castro is
the next election for said officers will be in 1990, and it would be recognized.
very close to 1992. We could never attain, subsequently, any
synchronization of election which is once every three years. MR. DE CASTRO. Thank you.
So under my proposal we will be able to begin actual During the discussion on the legislative and the synchronization of
synchronization in 1992, and consequently, we should not have a elections, I was the one who proposed that in order to synchronize
local election or an election for Members of the Lower House in the elections every three years, which the body approved — the
1990 for them to be able to complete their term of three years first national and local officials to be elected in 1987 shall continue
each. And if we also stagger the Senate, upon the first election it in office for five years, the same thing the Honorable Davide is now
will result in an election in 1993 for the Senate alone, and there will proposing. That means they will all serve until 1992, assuming that
be an election for 12 Senators in 1990. But for the remaining 12 the term of the President will be for six years and continue
who will be elected in 1987, if their term is for six years, their beginning in 1986. So from 1992, we will again have national, local
election will be in 1993. So, consequently we will have elections in and presidential elections. This time, in 1992, the President shall
1990, in 1992 and in 1993. The later election will be limited to only have a term until 1998 and the first 12 Senators will serve until
12 Senators and of course to the local officials and the Members of 1998, while the next 12 shall serve until 1995, and then the local
the Lower House. But, definitely, thereafter we can never have an officials elected in 1992 will serve until 1995. From then on, we
election once every three years, therefore defeating the very shall have an election every three years.
purpose of the Commission when we adopted the term of six years
for the President and another six years for the Senators with the So, I will say that the proposition of Commissioner Davide is in
possibility of staggering with 12 to serve for six years and 12 for order, if we have to synchronize our elections every three years
three years insofar as the first Senators are concerned. And so my which was already approved by the body.
proposal is the only way to effect the first synchronized election
which would mean, necessarily, a bonus of two years to the Thank you, Mr. Presiding Officer.
Members of the Lower House and a bonus of two years to the
local elective officials. xxxx
THE PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. Rodrigo). What does the committee MR. GUINGONA. What will be synchronized, therefore, is the
say? election of the incumbent President and Vice-President in 1992.
The pertinent provision in this regard is Section 3 of RA No. 10153, Section 8. The term of office of elective local officials, except
which reads: barangay officials, which shall be determined by law, shall be three
years and no such official shall serve for more than three
Section 3. Appointment of Officers-in-Charge. — The President consecutive terms. [emphases ours]
shall appoint officers-in-charge for the Office of the Regional
Governor, Regional Vice Governor and Members of the Regional On the other hand, Section 7(1), Article VII of RA No. 9054 provides:
Legislative Assembly who shall perform the functions pertaining to
the said offices until the officials duly elected in the May 2013 Section 7. Terms of Office of Elective Regional Officials. – (1) Terms
elections shall have qualified and assumed office. of Office. The terms of office of the Regional Governor, Regional
Vice Governor and members of the Regional Assembly shall be for
a period of three (3) years, which shall begin at noon on the 30th Even assuming that a holdover is constitutionally permissible, and
day of September next following the day of the election and shall there had been statutory basis for it (namely Section 7, Article VII
end at noon of the same date three (3) years thereafter. The of RA No. 9054), the rule of holdover can only apply as an available
incumbent elective officials of the autonomous region shall option where no express or implied legislative intent to the
continue in effect until their successors are elected and qualified. contrary exists; it cannot apply where such contrary intent is
evident.23
The clear wording of Section 8, Article X of the Constitution
expresses the intent of the framers of the Constitution to Congress, in passing RA No. 10153 and removing the holdover
categorically set a limitation on the period within which all elective option, has made it clear that it wants to suppress the holdover rule
local officials can occupy their offices. We have already established expressed in RA No. 9054. Congress, in the exercise of its plenary
that elective ARMM officials are also local officials; they are, thus, legislative powers, has clearly acted within its discretion when it
bound by the three-year term limit prescribed by the Constitution. deleted the holdover option, and this Court has no authority to
It, therefore, becomes irrelevant that the Constitution does not question the wisdom of this decision, absent any evidence of
expressly prohibit elective officials from acting in a holdover unconstitutionality or grave abuse of discretion. It is for the
capacity. Short of amending the Constitution, Congress has no legislature and the executive, and not this Court, to decide how to
authority to extend the three-year term limit by inserting a fill the vacancies in the ARMM regional government which arise
holdover provision in RA No. 9054. Thus, the term of three years from the legislature complying with the constitutional mandate of
for local officials should stay at three (3) years, as fixed by the synchronization.
Constitution, and cannot be extended by holdover by Congress.
COMELEC has no authority to hold special elections
Admittedly, we have, in the past, recognized the validity of
holdover provisions in various laws. One significant difference Neither do we find any merit in the contention that the
between the present case and these past cases22 is that while these Commission on Elections (COMELEC) is sufficiently empowered to
past cases all refer to elective barangay or sangguniang set the date of special elections in the ARMM. To recall, the
kabataan officials whose terms of office are not explicitly provided Constitution has merely empowered the COMELEC to enforce and
for in the Constitution, the present case refers to local elective administer all laws and regulations relative to the conduct of an
officials - the ARMM Governor, the ARMM Vice Governor, and the election.24 Although the legislature, under the Omnibus Election
members of the Regional Legislative Assembly - whose terms fall Code (Batas Pambansa Bilang [BP] 881), has granted the COMELEC
within the three-year term limit set by Section 8, Article X of the the power to postpone elections to another date, this power is
Constitution. confined to the specific terms and circumstances provided for in
the law. Specifically, this power falls within the narrow confines of
the following provisions:
Section 5. Postponement of election. - When for any serious cause As we have previously observed in our assailed decision, both
such as violence, terrorism, loss or destruction of election Section 5 and Section 6 of BP 881 address instances where
paraphernalia or records, force majeure, and other analogous elections have already been scheduled to take place but do not
causes of such a nature that the holding of a free, orderly and occur or had to be suspended because
honest election should become impossible in any political of unexpected and unforeseen circumstances, such as violence,
subdivision, the Commission, motu proprio or upon a verified fraud, terrorism, and other analogous circumstances.
petition by any interested party, and after due notice and hearing,
whereby all interested parties are afforded equal opportunity to be In contrast, the ARMM elections were postponed by law, in
heard, shall postpone the election therein to a date which should furtherance of the constitutional mandate of synchronization of
be reasonably close to the date of the election not held, national and local elections. Obviously, this does not fall under any
suspended or which resulted in a failure to elect but not later than of the circumstances contemplated by Section 5 or Section 6 of BP
thirty days after the cessation of the cause for such postponement 881.
or suspension of the election or failure to elect.
More importantly, RA No. 10153 has already fixed the date for the
Section 6. Failure of election. - If, on account of force next ARMM elections and the COMELEC has no authority to set a
majeure, violence, terrorism, fraud, or other analogous different election date.
causes the election in any polling place has not been held on the
date fixed, or had been suspended before the hour fixed by law for Even assuming that the COMELEC has the authority to hold special
the closing of the voting, or after the voting and during the elections, and this Court can compel the COMELEC to do so, there
preparation and the transmission of the election returns or in the is still the problem of having to shorten the terms of the newly
custody or canvass thereof, such election results in a failure to elected officials in order to synchronize the ARMM elections with
elect, and in any of such cases the failure or suspension of election the May 2013 national and local elections. Obviously, neither the
would affect the result of the election, the Commission shall, on Court nor the COMELEC has the authority to do this, amounting as
the basis of a verified petition by any interested party and after due it does to an amendment of Section 8, Article X of the Constitution,
notice and hearing, call for the holding or continuation of the which limits the term of local officials to three years.
election not held, suspended or which resulted in a failure to elect
on a date reasonably close to the date of the election not held, President’s authority to appoint OICs
suspended or which resulted in a failure to elect but not later than
thirty days after the cessation of the cause of such postponement The petitioner in G.R. No. 197221 argues that the President’s
or suspension of the election or failure to elect. [emphases and power to appoint pertains only to appointive positions and cannot
underscoring ours] extend to positions held by elective officials.
The power to appoint has traditionally been recognized as The main distinction between the provision in the 1987
executive in nature.25 Section 16, Article VII of the Constitution Constitution and its counterpart in the 1935 Constitution is the
describes in broad strokes the extent of this power, thus: sentence construction; while in the 1935 Constitution, the various
appointments the President can make are enumerated in a single
Section 16. The President shall nominate and, with the consent of sentence, the 1987 Constitution enumerates the various
the Commission on Appointments, appoint the heads of the appointments the President is empowered to make and divides the
executive departments, ambassadors, other public ministers and enumeration in two sentences. The change in style is significant; in
consuls, or officers of the armed forces from the rank of colonel or providing for this change, the framers of the 1987 Constitution
naval captain, and other officers whose appointments are vested clearly sought to make a distinction between the first group of
in him in this Constitution. He shall also appoint all other officers presidential appointments and the second group of presidential
of the Government whose appointments are not otherwise appointments, as made evident in the following exchange:
provided for by law, and those whom he may be authorized by
law to appoint. The Congress may, by law, vest the appointment of MR. FOZ. Madame President x x x I propose to put a period (.) after
other officers lower in rank in the President alone, in the courts, or "captain" and x x x delete "and all" and substitute it with HE SHALL
in the heads of departments, agencies, commissions, or boards. ALSO APPOINT ANY.
[emphasis ours]
MR. REGALADO. Madam President, the Committee accepts the
The 1935 Constitution contained a provision similar to the one proposed amendment because it makes it clear that those other
quoted above. Section 10(3), Article VII of the 1935 Constitution officers mentioned therein do not have to be confirmed by the
provides: Commission on Appointments.26
(3) The President shall nominate and with the consent of the The first group of presidential appointments, specified as the heads
Commission on Appointments, shall appoint the heads of the of the executive departments, ambassadors, other public ministers
executive departments and bureaus, officers of the Army from the and consuls, or officers of the Armed Forces, and other officers
rank of colonel, of the Navy and Air Forces from the rank of captain whose appointments are vested in the President by the
or commander, and all other officers of the Government whose Constitution, pertains to the appointive officials who have to be
appointments are not herein otherwise provided for, and those confirmed by the Commission on Appointments.
whom he may be authorized by law to appoint; but the Congress
may by law vest the appointment of inferior officers, in the The second group of officials the President can appoint are "all
President alone, in the courts, or in the heads of departments. other officers of the Government whose appointments are not
[emphasis ours] otherwise provided for by law, and those whom he may be
authorized by law to appoint."27 The second sentence acts as the
"catch-all provision" for the President’s appointment power, in accordance with law."31 This is distinguished from the power of
recognition of the fact that the power to appoint is essentially control or "the power of an officer to alter or modify or set aside
executive in nature.28 The wide latitude given to the President to what a subordinate officer had done in the performance of his
appoint is further demonstrated by the recognition of the duties and to substitute the judgment of the former for the
President’s power to appoint officials whose appointments are not latter."32
even provided for by law. In other words, where there are offices
which have to be filled, but the law does not provide the process The petitioners’ apprehension regarding the President’s alleged
for filling them, the Constitution recognizes the power of the power of control over the OICs is rooted in their belief that the
President to fill the office by appointment. President’s appointment power includes the power to remove
these officials at will. In this way, the petitioners foresee that the
Any limitation on or qualification to the exercise of the President’s appointed OICs will be beholden to the President, and act as
appointment power should be strictly construed and must be representatives of the President and not of the people.
clearly stated in order to be recognized.29 Given that the President
derives his power to appoint OICs in the ARMM regional Section 3 of RA No. 10153 expressly contradicts the petitioners’
government from law, it falls under the classification of presidential supposition. The provision states:
appointments covered by the second sentence of Section 16,
Article VII of the Constitution; the President’s appointment power Section 3. Appointment of Officers-in-Charge. — The President
thus rests on clear constitutional basis. shall appoint officers-in-charge for the Office of the Regional
Governor, Regional Vice Governor and Members of the Regional
The petitioners also jointly assert that RA No. 10153, in granting the Legislative Assembly who shall perform the functions pertaining to
President the power to appoint OICs in elective positions, violates the said offices until the officials duly elected in the May 2013
Section 16, Article X of the Constitution,30 which merely grants the elections shall have qualified and assumed office.
President the power of supervision over autonomous regions.
The wording of the law is clear. Once the President has appointed
This is an overly restrictive interpretation of the President’s the OICs for the offices of the Governor, Vice Governor and
appointment power. There is no incompatibility between the members of the Regional Legislative Assembly, these same officials
President’s power of supervision over local governments and will remain in office until they are replaced by the duly elected
autonomous regions, and the power granted to the President, officials in the May 2013 elections. Nothing in this provision even
within the specific confines of RA No. 10153, to appoint OICs. hints that the President has the power to recall the appointments
he already made. Clearly, the petitioners’ fears in this regard are
The power of supervision is defined as "the power of a superior more apparent than real.
officer to see to it that lower officers perform their functions in
RA No. 10153 as an interim measure synchronizing the ARMM elections with the national and local
elections. In other words, "given the plain unconstitutionality of
We reiterate once more the importance of considering RA No. providing for a holdover and the unavailability of constitutional
10153 not in a vacuum, but within the context it was enacted in. In possibilities for lengthening or shortening the term of the elected
the first place, Congress enacted RA No. 10153 primarily to heed ARMM officials, is the choice of the President’s power to appoint
the constitutional mandate to synchronize the ARMM regional – for a fixed and specific period as an interim measure, and as
elections with the national and local elections. To do this, Congress allowed under Section 16, Article VII of the Constitution – an
had to postpone the scheduled ARMM elections for another date, unconstitutional or unreasonable choice for Congress to make?"33
leaving it with the problem of how to provide the ARMM with
governance in the intervening period, between the expiration of We admit that synchronization will temporarily disrupt the election
the term of those elected in August 2008 and the assumption to process in a local community, the ARMM, as well as the
office – twenty-one (21) months away – of those who will win in community’s choice of leaders. However, we have to keep in mind
the synchronized elections on May 13, 2013. that the adoption of this measure is a matter of necessity in order
to comply with a mandate that the Constitution itself has set out
In our assailed Decision, we already identified the three possible for us. Moreover, the implementation of the provisions of RA No.
solutions open to Congress to address the problem created by 10153 as an interim measure is comparable to the interim
synchronization – (a) allow the incumbent officials to remain in measures traditionally practiced when, for instance, the President
office after the expiration of their terms in a holdover capacity; (b) appoints officials holding elective offices upon the creation of new
call for special elections to be held, and shorten the terms of those local government units.
to be elected so the next ARMM regional elections can be held on
May 13, 2013; or (c) recognize that the President, in the exercise of The grant to the President of the power to appoint OICs in place of
his appointment powers and in line with his power of supervision the elective members of the Regional Legislative Assembly is
over the ARMM, can appoint interim OICs to hold the vacated neither novel nor innovative. The power granted to the President,
positions in the ARMM regional government upon the expiration of via RA No. 10153, to appoint members of the Regional Legislative
their terms. We have already established the unconstitutionality of Assembly is comparable to the power granted by BP 881 (the
the first two options, leaving us to consider the last available Omnibus Election Code) to the President to fill any vacancy for any
option. cause in the Regional Legislative Assembly (then called the
Sangguniang Pampook).34
In this way, RA No. 10153 is in reality an interim measure, enacted
to respond to the adjustment that synchronization requires. Given Executive is not bound by the principle of judicial courtesy
the context, we have to judge RA No. 10153 by the standard of
reasonableness in responding to the challenges brought about by
The petitioners in G.R. No. 197280, in their Manifestation and is still a decision of the Supreme Court en banc and must be
Motion dated December 21, 2011, question the propriety of the respected as such. The petitioners are, therefore, not in any
appointment by the President of Mujiv Hataman as acting position to speculate that, based on the voting, "the probability
Governor and Bainon Karon as acting Vice Governor of the ARMM. exists that their motion for reconsideration may be granted."38
They argue that since our previous decision was based on a close
vote of 8-7, and given the numerous motions for reconsideration Similarly, the petitioner in G.R. No. 197282, in his Very Urgent
filed by the parties, the President, in recognition of the principle of Motion to Issue Clarificatory Resolution, argues that since motions
judicial courtesy, should have refrained from implementing our for reconsideration were filed by the aggrieved parties challenging
decision until we have ruled with finality on this case. our October 18, 2011 decision in the present case, the TRO we
initially issued on September 13, 2011 should remain subsisting
We find the petitioners’ reasoning specious. and effective. He further argues that any attempt by the Executive
to implement our October 18, 2011 decision pending resolution of
Firstly, the principle of judicial courtesy is based on the hierarchy the motions for reconsideration "borders on disrespect if not
of courts and applies only to lower courts in instances where, even outright insolence"39 to this Court.
if there is no writ of preliminary injunction or TRO issued by a
higher court, it would be proper for a lower court to suspend its In support of this theory, the petitioner cites Samad v.
proceedings for practical and ethical considerations.35 In other COMELEC,40 where the Court held that while it had already issued
words, the principle of "judicial courtesy" applies where there is a a decision lifting the TRO, the lifting of the TRO is not yet final and
strong probability that the issues before the higher court would be executory, and can also be the subject of a motion for
rendered moot and moribund as a result of the continuation of the reconsideration. The petitioner also cites the minute resolution
proceedings in the lower court or court of origin.36 Consequently, issued by the Court in Tolentino v. Secretary of Finance,41 where
this principle cannot be applied to the President, who represents a the Court reproached the Commissioner of the Bureau of Internal
co-equal branch of government. To suggest otherwise would be to Revenue for manifesting its intention to implement the decision of
disregard the principle of separation of powers, on which our the Court, noting that the Court had not yet lifted the TRO
whole system of government is founded upon. previously issued.42
Secondly, the fact that our previous decision was based on a slim We agree with the petitioner that the lifting of a TRO can be
vote of 8-7 does not, and cannot, have the effect of making our included as a subject of a motion for reconsideration filed to assail
ruling any less effective or binding. Regardless of how close the our decision. It does not follow, however, that the TRO remains
voting is, so long as there is concurrence of the majority of the effective until after we have issued a final and executory decision,
members of the en banc who actually took part in the deliberations especially considering the clear wording of the dispositive portion
of the case,37 a decision garnering only 8 votes out of 15 members of our October 18, 2011 decision, which states:
WHEREFORE, premises considered, we DISMISS the consolidated of synchronizing the ARMM elections with the national and local
petitions assailing the validity of RA No. 10153 for lack of merit, and elections, Congress had to grant the President the power to
UPHOLD the constitutionality of this law. We likewise LIFT the appoint OICs in the ARMM, in light of the fact that: (a) holdover by
temporary restraining order we issued in our Resolution of the incumbent ARMM elective officials is legally impermissible; and
September 13, 2011. No costs.43 (emphases ours) (b) Congress cannot call for special elections and shorten the terms
of elective local officials for less than three years.
In this regard, we note an important distinction between Tolentino
and the present case. While it may be true that Tolentino and the Unlike local officials, as the Constitution does not prescribe a term
present case are similar in that, in both cases, the petitions assailing limit for barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan officials, there is no
the challenged laws were dismissed by the Court, an examination legal proscription which prevents these specific government
of the dispositive portion of the decision in Tolentino reveals that officials from continuing in a holdover capacity should some
the Court did not categorically lift the TRO. In sharp contrast, in the exigency require the postponement of barangay or Sangguniang
present case, we expressly lifted the TRO issued on September 13, Kabataan elections. Clearly, these fears have neither legal nor
2011.1âwphi1 There is, therefore, no legal impediment to prevent factual basis to stand on.
the President from exercising his authority to appoint an acting
ARMM Governor and Vice Governor as specifically provided for in For the foregoing reasons, we deny the petitioners’ motions for
RA No. 10153. reconsideration.
SO ORDERED.
In this disposition, it bears reiterating that from the birth of the Section 8. (1) A Judicial and Bar Council is hereby created under the
Philippine Republic, the exercise of appointing members of the supervision of the Supreme Court composed of the Chief Justice as
Judiciary has always been the exclusive prerogative of the ex officio Chairman, the Secretary of Justice, and a representative
executive and legislative branches of the government. Like their of the Congress as ex officio Members, a representative of the
progenitor of American origins, both the Malolos Integrated Bar, a professor of law, a retired Member of the
Constitution11 and the 1935 Constitution12vested the power to Supreme Court, and a representative of the private sector.
appoint the members of the Judiciary in the President, subject to
confirmation by the Commission on Appointments. It was during From the moment of the creation of the JBC, Congress designated
these times that the country became witness to the deplorable one (1) representative to sit in the JBC to act as one of the ex-officio
practice of aspirants seeking confirmation of their appointment in members.16 Pursuant to the constitutional provision that Congress
the Judiciary to ingratiate themselves with the members of the is entitled to one (1) representative, each House sent a
legislative body.13 representative to the JBC, not together, but alternately or by
rotation.
Then, under the 1973 Constitution,14 with the fusion of the
executive and legislative powers in one body, the appointment of In 1994, the seven-member composition of the JBC was
judges and justices ceased to be subject of scrutiny by another substantially altered.1âwphi1 An eighth member was added to the
body. The power became exclusive and absolute to the Executive, JBC as the two (2) representatives from Congress began sitting
subject only to the condition that the appointees must have all the simultaneously in the JBC, with each having one-half (1/2) of a
qualifications and none of the disqualifications. vote.17
Prompted by the clamor to rid the process of appointments to the In 2001, the JBC En Banc decided to allow the representatives from
Judiciary of the evils of political pressure and partisan the Senate and the House of Representatives one full vote each.18 It
activities,15 the members of the Constitutional Commission saw it has been the situation since then.
wise to create a separate, competent and independent body to
recommend nominees to the President. Grounds relied upon by Respondents
Through the subject motion, respondents pray that the Court government and society were to operate. Thus, in the
reconsider its decision and dismiss the petition on the following interpretation of the constitutional provisions, the Court firmly
grounds: 1] that allowing only one representative from Congress in relies on the basic postulate that the Framers mean what they say.
the JBC would lead to absurdity considering its bicameral nature; The language used in the Constitution must be taken to have been
2] that the failure of the Framers to make the proper adjustment deliberately chosen for a definite purpose. Every word employed in
when there was a shift from unilateralism to bicameralism was a the Constitution must be interpreted to exude its deliberate intent
plain oversight; 3] that two representatives from Congress would which must be maintained inviolate against disobedience and
not subvert the intention of the Framers to insulate the JBC from defiance. What the Constitution clearly says, according to its text,
political partisanship; and 4] that the rationale of the Court in compels acceptance and bars modification even by the branch
declaring a seven-member composition would provide a solution tasked to interpret it.
should there be a stalemate is not exactly correct.
For this reason, the Court cannot accede to the argument of plain
While the Court may find some sense in the reasoning in oversight in order to justify constitutional construction. As stated
amplification of the third and fourth grounds listed by respondents, in the July 17, 2012 Decision, in opting to use the singular letter "a"
still, it finds itself unable to reverse the assailed decision on the to describe "representative of Congress," the Filipino people
principal issues covered by the first and second grounds for lack of through the Framers intended that Congress be entitled to only
merit. Significantly, the conclusion arrived at, with respect to the one (1) seat in the JBC. Had the intention been otherwise, the
first and second grounds, carries greater bearing in the final Constitution could have, in no uncertain terms, so provided, as can
resolution of this case. be read in its other provisions.
As these two issues are interrelated, the Court shall discuss them A reading of the 1987 Constitution would reveal that several
jointly. provisions were indeed adjusted as to be in tune with the shift to
bicameralism. One example is Section 4, Article VII, which provides
Ruling of the Court that a tie in the presidential election shall be broken "by a majority
of all the Members of both Houses of the Congress, voting
The Constitution evinces the direct action of the Filipino people by separately."20 Another is Section 8 thereof which requires the
which the fundamental powers of government are established, nominee to replace the Vice-President to be confirmed "by a
limited and defined and by which those powers are distributed majority of all the Members of both Houses of the Congress, voting
among the several departments for their safe and useful exercise separately."21 Similarly, under Section 18, the proclamation of
for the benefit of the body politic.19 The Framers reposed their martial law or the suspension of the privilege of the writ of habeas
wisdom and vision on one suprema lex to be the ultimate corpus may be revoked or continued by the Congress, voting
expression of the principles and the framework upon which separately, by a vote of at least a majority of all its Members."22 In
all these provisions, the bicameral nature of Congress was other chamber; and 2) in consonance with the principle of checks
recognized and, clearly, the corresponding adjustments were made and balances, as to the other branches of government.
as to how a matter would be handled and voted upon by its two
Houses. In checkered contrast, there is essentially no interaction between
the two Houses in their participation in the JBC. No mechanism is
Thus, to say that the Framers simply failed to adjust Section 8, required between the Senate and the House of Representatives in
Article VIII, by sheer inadvertence, to their decision to shift to a the screening and nomination of judicial officers. Rather, in the
bicameral form of the legislature, is not persuasive enough. creation of the JBC, the Framers arrived at a unique system by
Respondents cannot just lean on plain oversight to justify a adding to the four (4) regular members, three (3) representatives
conclusion favorable to them. It is very clear that the Framers were from the major branches of government - the Chief Justice as ex-
not keen on adjusting the provision on congressional officio Chairman (representing the Judicial Department), the
representation in the JBC because it was not in the exercise of its Secretary of Justice (representing the Executive Department), and
primary function – to legislate. JBC was created to support the a representative of the Congress (representing the Legislative
executive power to appoint, and Congress, as one whole body, was Department). The total is seven (7), not eight. In so providing, the
merely assigned a contributory non-legislative function. Framers simply gave recognition to the Legislature, not because it
was in the interest of a certain constituency, but in reverence to it
The underlying reason for such a limited participation can easily be as a major branch of government.
discerned. Congress has two (2) Houses. The need to recognize the
existence and the role of each House is essential considering that On this score, a Member of Congress, Hon. Simeon A. Datumanong,
the Constitution employs precise language in laying down the from the Second District of Maguindanao, submitted his well-
functions which particular House plays, regardless of whether the considered position28 to then Chief Justice Reynato S. Puno:
two Houses consummate an official act by voting jointly or
separately. Whether in the exercise of its legislative23 or its non- I humbly reiterate my position that there should be only one
legislative functions such as inter alia, the power of representative of Congress in the JBC in accordance with Article
appropriation,24 the declaration of an existence of a state of VIII, Section 8 (1) of the 1987 Constitution x x x.
war,25 canvassing of electoral returns for the President and Vice-
President,26 and impeachment,27 the dichotomy of each House The aforesaid provision is clear and unambiguous and does not
must be acknowledged and recognized considering the interplay need any further interpretation. Perhaps, it is apt to mention that
between these two Houses. In all these instances, each House is the oft-repeated doctrine that "construction and interpretation
constitutionally granted with powers and functions peculiar to its come only after it has been demonstrated that application is
nature and with keen consideration to 1) its relationship with the impossible or inadequate without them."
Further, to allow Congress to have two representatives in the As can be gleaned from the above constitutional provision, the JBC
Council, with one vote each, is to negate the principle of equality is composed of seven (7) representatives coming from different
among the three branches of government which is enshrined in the sectors. From the enumeration it is patent that each category of
Constitution. members pertained to a single individual only. Thus, while we do
not lose sight of the bicameral nature of our legislative department,
In view of the foregoing, I vote for the proposition that the Council it is beyond dispute that Art. VIII, Section 8 (1) of the 1987
should adopt the rule of single representation of Congress in the Constitution is explicit and specific that "Congress" shall have only
JBC in order to respect and give the right meaning to the above- "xxx a representative." Thus, two (2) representatives from
quoted provision of the Constitution. (Emphases and underscoring Congress would increase the number of JBC members to eight (8),
supplied) a number beyond what the Constitution has contemplated.
(Emphases and underscoring supplied)
On March 14, 2007, then Associate Justice Leonardo A.
Quisumbing, also a JBC Consultant, submitted to the Chief Justice In this regard, the scholarly dissection on the matter by retired
and ex-officio JBC Chairman his opinion,29 which reads: Justice Consuelo Ynares-Santiago, a former JBC consultant, is worth
reiterating.31 Thus:
8. Two things can be gleaned from the excerpts and citations
above: the creation of the JBC is intended to curtail the influence A perusal of the records of the Constitutional Commission reveals
of politics in Congress in the appointment of judges, and the that the composition of the JBC reflects the Commission’s desire
understanding is that seven (7) persons will compose the JBC. As "to have in the Council a representation for the major elements of
such, the interpretation of two votes for Congress runs counter to the community." xxx The ex-officio members of the Council consist
the intendment of the framers. Such interpretation actually gives of representatives from the three main branches of government
Congress more influence in the appointment of judges. Also, two while the regular members are composed of various stakeholders
votes for Congress would increase the number of JBC members to in the judiciary. The unmistakeable tenor of Article VIII, Section 8(1)
eight, which could lead to voting deadlock by reason of even- was to treat each ex-officio member as representing one co-equal
numbered membership, and a clear violation of 7 enumerated branch of government. xxx Thus, the JBC was designed to have
members in the Constitution. (Emphases and underscoring seven voting members with the three ex-officio members having
supplied) equal say in the choice of judicial nominees.
On January 25, 2005, former President Gloria Macapagal- Each Board has the duty to (1) prescribe the rules and
Arroyo signed into law R.A. No. 9335 which took effect on February guidelines for the allocation, distribution and release of the Fund;
11, 2005. (2) set criteria and procedures for removing from the service
officials and employees whose revenue collection falls short of the
In Abakada Guro Party List v. Purisima4 (Abakada), we said of target; (3) terminate personnel in accordance with the criteria
R.A. No. 9335: adopted by the Board; (4) prescribe a system for performance
RA [No.] 9335 was enacted to optimize the revenue- evaluation; (5) perform other functions, including the issuance of
generation capability and collection of the Bureau of Internal rules and regulations and (6) submit an annual report to Congress.
The DOF, DBM, NEDA, BIR, BOC and the Civil Service employees to sign. The Performance Contract pertinently
Commission (CSC) were tasked to promulgate and issue the provided:
implementing rules and regulations of RA [No.] 9335, to be
xxxx
approved by a Joint Congressional Oversight Committee created
for such purpose.5 WHEREAS, pursuant to the provisions of Sec. 25 (b) of the
Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of the Attrition Act of
The Joint Congressional Oversight Committee approved the
2005, that provides for the setting of criteria and procedures for
assailed IRR on May 22, 2006. Subsequently, the IRR was published
removing from the service Officials and Employees whose revenue
on May 30, 2006 in two newspapers of general circulation, the
collection fall short of the target in accordance with Section 7 of
Philippine Star and the Manila Standard, and became effective
Republic Act 9335.
fifteen (15) days later.6
xxxx
Contending that the enactment and implementation of R.A.
No. 9335 are tainted with constitutional infirmities in violation of NOW, THEREFORE, for and in consideration of the foregoing
the fundamental rights of its members, petitioner Bureau of premises, parties unto this Agreement hereby agree and so agreed
Customs Employees Association (BOCEA), an association of rank- to perform the following:
and-file employees of the Bureau of Customs (BOC), duly registered
xxxx
with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the
Civil Service Commission (CSC), and represented by its National 2. The "Section 2, PA/PE" hereby accepts the allocated
President, Mr. Romulo A. Pagulayan (Pagulayan), directly filed the Revenue Collection Target and further accepts/commits to meet
present petition before this Court against respondents Margarito the said target under the following conditions:
B. Teves, in his capacity as Secretary of the Department of Finance
a.) That he/she will meet the allocated Revenue Collection
(DOF), Commissioner Napoleon L. Morales (Commissioner
Target and thereby undertakes and binds himself/herself that in
Morales), in his capacity as BOC Commissioner, and Lilian B. Hefti,
the event the revenue collection falls short of the target with due
in her capacity as Commissioner of the Bureau of Internal Revenue
consideration of all relevant factors affecting the level of collection
(BIR). In its petition, BOCEA made the following averments:
as provided in the rules and regulations promulgated under the Act
Sometime in 2008, high-ranking officials of the BOC pursuant and its IRR, he/she will voluntarily submit to the provisions of Sec.
to the mandate of R.A. No. 9335 and its IRR, and in order to comply 25 (b) of the IRR and Sec. 7 of the Act; and
with the stringent deadlines thereof, started to disseminate
b.) That he/she will cascade and/or allocate to respective
Collection District Performance Contracts7 (Performance
Appraisers/Examiners or Employees under his/her section the said
Contracts) for the lower ranking officials and rank-and-file
Revenue Collection Target and require them to execute a
Performance Contract, and direct them to accept their individual
target. The Performance Contract executed by the respective BOCEA further claimed that Pagulayan was constantly
Examiners/Appraisers/Employees shall be submitted to the Office harassed and threatened with lawsuits. Pagulayan approached
of the Commissioner through the LAIC on or before March 31, Deputy Commissioner Umali to ask the BOC officials to stop all
2008. forms of harassment, but the latter merely said that he would look
into the matter. On February 5, 2008, BOCEA through counsel
x x x x8
wrote the Revenue Performance Evaluation Board (Board) to desist
BOCEA opined that the revenue target was impossible to meet from implementing R.A. No. 9335 and its IRR and from requiring
due to the Government’s own policies on reduced tariff rates and rank-and-file employees of the BOC and BIR to sign Performance
tax breaks to big businesses, the occurrence of natural calamities Contracts.9 In his letter-reply10 dated February 12, 2008, Deputy
and because of other economic factors. BOCEA claimed that some Commissioner Umali denied having coerced any BOC employee to
BOC employees were coerced and forced to sign the Performance sign a Performance Contract. He also defended the BOC, invoking
Contract. The majority of them, however, did not sign. In particular, its mandate of merely implementing the law. Finally, Pagulayan
officers of BOCEA were summoned and required to sign the and BOCEA’s counsel, on separate occasions, requested for a
Performance Contracts but they also refused. To ease the brewing certified true copy of the Performance Contract from Deputy
tension, BOCEA claimed that its officers sent letters, and sought Commissioner Umali but the latter failed to furnish them a copy.11
several dialogues with BOC officials but the latter refused to heed
This petition was filed directly with this Court on March 3,
them.
2008. BOCEA asserted that in view of the unconstitutionality of R.A.
In addition, BOCEA alleged that Commissioner Morales No. 9335 and its IRR, and their adverse effects on the constitutional
exerted heavy pressure on the District Collectors, Chiefs of Formal rights of BOC officials and employees, direct resort to this Court is
Entry Divisions, Principal Customs Appraisers and Principal justified. BOCEA argued, among others, that its members and other
Customs Examiners of the BOC during command conferences to BOC employees are in great danger of losing their jobs should they
make them sign their Performance Contracts. Likewise, BOC fail to meet the required quota provided under the law, in clear
Deputy Commissioner Reynaldo Umali (Deputy Commissioner violation of their constitutional right to security of tenure, and at
Umali) individually spoke to said personnel to convince them to their and their respective families’ prejudice.
sign said contracts. Said personnel were threatened that if they do
In their Comment,12 respondents, through the Office of the
not sign their respective Performance Contracts, they would face
Solicitor General (OSG), countered that R.A. No. 9335 and its IRR do
possible reassignment, reshuffling, or worse, be placed on floating
not violate the right to due process and right to security of tenure
status. Thus, all the District Collectors, except a certain Atty. Carlos
of BIR and BOC employees. The OSG stressed that the guarantee of
So of the Collection District III of the Ninoy Aquino International
security of tenure under the 1987 Constitution is not a guarantee
Airport (NAIA), signed the Performance Contracts.
of perpetual employment. R.A. No. 9335 and its IRR provided a
reasonable and valid ground for the dismissal of an employee remaining provisions of R.A. No. 9335 was upheld pursuant to
which is germane to the purpose of the law. Likewise, R.A. No. 9335 Section 1318 of R.A. No. 9335. The Court also held that until the
and its IRR provided that an employee may only be separated from contrary is shown, the IRR of R.A. No. 9335 is presumed valid and
the service upon compliance with substantive and procedural due effective even without the approval of the Joint Congressional
process. The OSG added that R.A. No. 9335 and its IRR must enjoy Oversight Committee.19
the presumption of constitutionality.
Notwithstanding our ruling in Abakada, both parties complied
In itsReply,13 BOCEA claimed that R.A. No. 9335 employs with our Resolution20 dated February 10, 2009, requiring them to
means that are unreasonable to achieve its stated objectives; that submit their respective Memoranda.
the law is unduly oppressive of BIR and BOC employees as it shifts
The Issues
the extreme burden upon their shoulders when the Government
itself has adopted measures that make collection difficult such as BOCEA raises the following issues:
reduced tariff rates to almost zero percent and tax exemption of
I.
big businesses; and that the law is discriminatory of BIR and BOC
employees. BOCEA manifested that only the high-ranking officials WHETHER OR NOT THE ATTRITION LAW, REPUBLIC ACT [NO.]
of the BOC benefited largely from the reward system under R.A. 9335, AND ITS IMPLEMENTING RULES AND REGULATIONS ARE
No. 9335 despite the fact that they were not the ones directly UNCONSTITUTIONAL AS THESE VIOLATE THE RIGHT TO DUE
toiling to collect revenue. Moreover, despite the BOCEA’s PROCESS OF THE COVERED BIR AND BOC OFFICIALS AND
numerous requests,14 BOC continually refused to provide BOCEA EMPLOYEES[;]
the Expenditure Plan on how such reward was distributed.
II.
Since BOCEA was seeking similar reliefs as that of the
WHETHER OR NOT THE ATTRITION LAW, REPUBLIC ACT [NO.]
petitioners in Abakada Guro Party List v. Purisima, BOCEA filed a
9335, AND ITS IMPLEMENTING RULES AND REGULATIONS ARE
Motion to Consolidate15 the present case with Abakada on April 16,
UNCONSTITUTIONAL AS THESE VIOLATE THE RIGHT OF BIR AND
2008. However, pending action on said motion, the Court rendered
BOC OFFICIALS AND EMPLOYEES TO THE EQUAL PROTECTION OF
its decision in Abakada on August 14, 2008. Thus, the consolidation
THE LAWS[;]
of this case with Abakada was rendered no longer possible.16
III.
In Abakada, this Court, through then Associate Justice, now
Chief Justice Renato C. Corona, declared Section 1217of R.A. No. WHETHER OR NOT REPUBLIC ACT [NO.] 9335 AND ITS
9335 creating a Joint Congressional Oversight Committee to IMPLEMENTING RULES AND REGULATIONS VIOLATE THE RIGHT TO
approve the IRR as unconstitutional and violative of the principle of SECURITY OF TENURE OF BIR AND BOC OFFICIALS AND EMPLOYEES
separation of powers. However, the constitutionality of the
AS ENSHRINED UNDER SECTION 2 (3), ARTICLE IX (B) OF THE the Bonds Division of BOC-NAIA collected 400+% of its designated
CONSTITUTION[;] target but the higher management gave out to the employees a
measly sum of ₱8,500.00 while the top level officials partook of
IV.
millions of the excess collections. BOCEA relies on a piece of
WHETHER OR NOT REPUBLIC ACT [NO.] 9335 AND ITS information revealed by a newspaper showing the list of BOC
IMPLEMENTING RULES AND REGULATIONS ARE officials who apparently earned huge amounts of money by way of
UNCONSTITUTIONAL AS THEY CONSTITUTE UNDUE DELEGATION reward.22 It claims that the recipients thereof included lawyers,
OF LEGISLATIVE POWERS TO THE REVENUE PERFORMANCE support personnel and other employees, including a dentist, who
EVALUATION BOARD IN VIOLATION OF THE PRINCIPLE OF performed no collection functions at all. These alleged anomalous
SEPARATION OF POWERS ENSHRINED IN THE CONSTITUTION[; selection, distribution and allocation of rewards was due to the
AND] failure of R.A. No. 9335 to set out clear guidelines.23
V. In addition, BOCEA avers that the Board initiated the first few
cases of attrition for the Fiscal Year 2007 by subjecting five BOC
WHETHER OR NOT REPUBLIC ACT [NO.] 9335 IS A BILL OF
officials from the Port of Manila to attrition despite the fact that
ATTAINDER AND HENCE[,] UNCONSTITUTIONAL BECAUSE IT
the Port of Manila substantially complied with the provisions of
INFLICTS PUNISHMENT THROUGH LEGISLATIVE FIAT UPON A
R.A. No. 9335. It is thus submitted that the selection of these
PARTICULAR GROUP OR CLASS OF OFFICIALS AND EMPLOYEES
officials for attrition without proper investigation was nothing less
WITHOUT TRIAL.21
than arbitrary. Further, the legislative and executive departments’
BOCEA manifested that while waiting for the Court to give due promulgation of issuances and the Government’s accession to
course to its petition, events unfolded showing the patent regional trade agreements have caused a significant diminution of
unconstitutionality of R.A. No. 9335. It narrated that during the first the tariff rates, thus, decreasing over-all collection. These
year of the implementation of R.A. No. 9335, BOC employees unrealistic settings of revenue targets seriously affect BIR and BOC
exerted commendable efforts to attain their revenue target of employees tasked with the burden of collection, and worse,
₱196 billion which they surpassed by as much as ₱2 billion for that subjected them to attrition.24
year alone. However, this was attained only because oil companies
BOCEA assails the constitutionality of R.A. No. 9335 and its IRR
made advance tax payments to BOC. Moreover, BOC employees
on the following grounds:
were given their "reward" for surpassing said target only in 2008,
the distribution of which they described as unjust, unfair, dubious 1. R.A. No. 9335 and its IRR violate the BIR and BOC employees’
and fraudulent because only top officials of BOC got the huge sum right to due process because the termination of employees who
of reward while the employees, who did the hard task of collecting, had not attained their revenue targets for the year is peremptory
received a mere pittance of around ₱8,500.00. In the same manner, and done without any form of hearing to allow said employees to
ventilate their side. Moreover, R.A. No. 9335 and its IRR do not 5. R.A. No. 9335 is a bill of attainder because it inflicts
comply with the requirements under CSC rules and regulations as punishment upon a particular group or class of officials and
the dismissal in this case is immediately executory. Such employees without trial. This is evident from the fact that the law
immediately executory nature of the Board’s decision negates the confers upon the Board the power to impose the penalty of
remedies available to an employee as provided under the CSC removal upon employees who do not meet their revenue targets;
rules. that the same is without the benefit of hearing; and that the
removal from service is immediately executory. Lastly, it disregards
2. R.A. No. 9335 and its IRR violate the BIR and BOC employees’
the presumption of regularity in the performance of the official
right to equal protection of the law because R.A. No. 9335 and its
functions of a public officer.25
IRR unduly discriminates against BIR and BOC employees as
compared to employees of other revenue generating government On the other hand, respondents through the OSG stress that
agencies like the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation, except for Section 12 of R.A. No. 9335, R.A. No. 9335 and its IRR are
Department of Transportation and Communication, the Air constitutional, as per our ruling in Abakada. Nevertheless, the OSG
Transportation Office, the Land Transportation Office, and the argues that the classification of BIR and BOC employees as public
Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, among others, which are officers under R.A. No. 9335 is based on a valid and substantial
not subject to attrition. distinction since the revenue generated by the BIR and BOC is
essentially in the form of taxes, which is the lifeblood of the State,
3. R.A. No. 9335 and its IRR violate the BIR and BOC employees’
while the revenue produced by other agencies is merely incidental
right to security of tenure because R.A. No. 9335 and its IRR
or secondary to their governmental functions; that in view of their
effectively removed remedies provided in the ordinary course of
mandate, and for purposes of tax collection, the BIR and BOC are
administrative procedure afforded to government employees. The
sui generis; that R.A. No. 9335 complies with the "completeness"
law likewise created another ground for dismissal, i.e., non-
and "sufficient standard" tests for the permissive delegation of
attainment of revenue collection target, which is not provided
legislative power to the Board; that the Board exercises its
under CSC rules and which is, by its nature, unpredictable and
delegated power consistent with the policy laid down in the law,
therefore arbitrary and unreasonable.
that is, to optimize the revenue generation capability and collection
4. R.A. No. 9335 and its IRR violate the 1987 of the BIR and the BOC; that parameters were set in order that the
Constitution because Congress granted to the Revenue Board may identify the officials and employees subject to attrition,
Performance Evaluation Board (Board) the unbridled discretion of and the proper procedure for their removal in case they fail to meet
formulating the criteria for termination, the manner of allocating the targets set in the Performance Contract were provided; and
targets, the distribution of rewards and the determination of that the rights of BIR and BOC employees to due process of law and
relevant factors affecting the targets of collection, which is security of tenure are duly accorded by R.A. No. 9335. The OSG
tantamount to undue delegation of legislative power. likewise maintains that there was no encroachment of judicial
power in the enactment of R.A. No. 9335 amounting to a bill of in the case, such that they have sustained or will sustain, direct
attainder since R.A. No. 9335 and its IRR merely defined the offense injury as a result of the enforcement of R.A. No. 9335 and its IRR.27
and provided for the penalty that may be imposed. Finally, the OSG
However, we find no merit in the petition and perforce dismiss
reiterates that the separation from the service of any BIR or BOC
the same.
employee under R.A. No. 9335 and its IRR shall be done only upon
due consideration of all relevant factors affecting the level of It must be noted that this is not the first time the
collection, subject to Civil Service laws, rules and regulations, and constitutionality of R.A. No. 9335 and its IRR are being challenged.
in compliance with substantive and procedural due process. The The Court already settled the majority of the same issues raised by
OSG opines that the Performance Contract, far from violating the BOCEA in our decision in Abakada, which attained finality on
BIR and BOC employees’ right to due process, actually serves as a September 17, 2008. As such, our ruling therein is worthy of
notice of the revenue target they have to meet and the possible reiteration in this case.
consequences of failing to meet the same. More, there is nothing
We resolve the first issue in the negative.
in the law which prevents the aggrieved party from appealing the
unfavorable decision of dismissal.26 The principle of separation of powers ordains that each of the
three great branches of government has exclusive cognizance of
In essence, the issues for our resolution are:
and is supreme in matters falling within its own constitutionally
1. Whether there is undue delegation of legislative power to allocated sphere.28 Necessarily imbedded in this doctrine is the
the Board; principle of non-delegation of powers, as expressed in the Latin
maxim potestas delegata non delegari potest, which means "what
2. Whether R.A. No. 9335 and its IRR violate the rights of
has been delegated, cannot be delegated." This doctrine is based
BOCEA’s members to: (a) equal protection of laws, (b) security of
on the ethical principle that such delegated power constitutes not
tenure and (c) due process; and
only a right but a duty to be performed by the delegate through the
3. Whether R.A. No. 9335 is a bill of attainder. instrumentality of his own judgment and not through the
intervening mind of another.29However, this principle of non-
Our Ruling
delegation of powers admits of numerous exceptions,30 one of
Prefatorily, we note that it is clear, and in fact uncontroverted, which is the delegation of legislative power to various specialized
that BOCEA has locus standi. BOCEA impugns the constitutionality administrative agencies like the Board in this case.
of R.A. No. 9335 and its IRR because its members, who are rank-
The rationale for the aforementioned exception was clearly
and-file employees of the BOC, are actually covered by the law and
explained in our ruling in Gerochi v. Department of Energy,31 to wit:
its IRR. BOCEA’s members have a personal and substantial interest
In the face of the increasing complexity of modern life, agencies in carrying out the provisions of the law. Section 2 spells
delegation of legislative power to various specialized out the policy of the law:
administrative agencies is allowed as an exception to this principle.
"SEC. 2. Declaration of Policy. — It is the policy of the State to
Given the volume and variety of interactions in today’s society, it is
optimize the revenue-generation capability and collection of the
doubtful if the legislature can promulgate laws that will deal
Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) and the Bureau of Customs (BOC)
adequately with and respond promptly to the minutiae of everyday
by providing for a system of rewards and sanctions through the
life. Hence, the need to delegate to administrative bodies — the
creation of a Rewards and Incentives Fund and a Revenue
principal agencies tasked to execute laws in their specialized fields
Performance Evaluation Board in the above agencies for the
— the authority to promulgate rules and regulations to implement
purpose of encouraging their officials and employees to exceed
a given statute and effectuate its policies. All that is required for
their revenue targets."
the valid exercise of this power of subordinate legislation is that the
regulation be germane to the objects and purposes of the law and Section 4 "canalized within banks that keep it from
that the regulation be not in contradiction to, but in conformity overflowing" the delegated power to the President to fix revenue
with, the standards prescribed by the law. These requirements are targets:
denominated as the completeness test and the sufficient standard
"SEC. 4. Rewards and Incentives Fund. — A Rewards and
test.32
Incentives Fund, hereinafter referred to as the Fund, is hereby
Thus, in Abakada, we held, created, to be sourced from the collection of the BIR and the BOC
in excess of their respective revenue targets of the year, as
Two tests determine the validity of delegation of legislative
determined by the Development Budget and Coordinating
power: (1) the completeness test and (2) the sufficient standard
Committee (DBCC), in the following percentages:
test. A law is complete when it sets forth therein the policy to be
executed, carried out or implemented by the delegate. It lays down The Fund shall be deemed automatically appropriated the year
a sufficient standard when it provides adequate guidelines or immediately following the year when the revenue collection target
limitations in the law to map out the boundaries of the delegate’s was exceeded and shall be released on the same fiscal year.
authority and prevent the delegation from running riot. To be
Revenue targets shall refer to the original estimated revenue
sufficient, the standard must specify the limits of the delegate’s
collection expected of the BIR and the BOC for a given fiscal year as
authority, announce the legislative policy and identify the
stated in the Budget of Expenditures and Sources of Financing
conditions under which it is to be implemented.
(BESF) submitted by the President to Congress. The BIR and the
RA [No.] 9335 adequately states the policy and standards to BOC shall submit to the DBCC the distribution of the agencies’
guide the President in fixing revenue targets and the implementing revenue targets as allocated among its revenue districts in the case
of the BIR, and the collection districts in the case of the BOC.
xxx xxx x x x" unless the transfer was due to nonperformance of revenue targets
or potential nonperformance of revenue targets: Provided,
Revenue targets are based on the original estimated revenue
however, That when the district or area of responsibility covered
collection expected respectively of the BIR and the BOC for a given
by revenue or customs officials or employees has suffered from
fiscal year as approved by the DBCC and stated in the BESF
economic difficulties brought about by natural calamities or force
submitted by the President to Congress. Thus, the determination
majeure or economic causes as may be determined by the Board,
of revenue targets does not rest solely on the President as it also
termination shall be considered only after careful and proper
undergoes the scrutiny of the DBCC.
review by the Board.
On the other hand, Section 7 specifies the limits of the Board’s
(c) To terminate personnel in accordance with the criteria
authority and identifies the conditions under which officials and
adopted in the preceding paragraph: Provided, That such decision
employees whose revenue collection falls short of the target by at
shall be immediately executory: Provided, further, That the
least 7.5% may be removed from the service:
application of the criteria for the separation of an official or
"SEC. 7. Powers and Functions of the Board. — The Board in employee from service under this Act shall be without prejudice to
the agency shall have the following powers and functions: the application of other relevant laws on accountability of public
officers and employees, such as the Code of Conduct and Ethical
xxx xxx xxx
Standards of Public Officers and Employees and the Anti-Graft and
(b) To set the criteria and procedures for removing from Corrupt Practices Act;
service officials and employees whose revenue collection falls short
xxx xxx x x x"
of the target by at least seven and a half percent (7.5%), with due
consideration of all relevant factors affecting the level of collection At any rate, this Court has recognized the following as
as provided in the rules and regulations promulgated under this sufficient standards: "public interest", "justice and equity", "public
Act, subject to civil service laws, rules and regulations and convenience and welfare" and "simplicity, economy and welfare".
compliance with substantive and procedural due process: In this case, the declared policy of optimization of the revenue-
Provided, That the following exemptions shall apply: generation capability and collection of the BIR and the BOC is
infused with public interest.33
1. Where the district or area of responsibility is newly-created,
not exceeding two years in operation, and has no historical record We could not but deduce that the completeness test and the
of collection performance that can be used as basis for evaluation; sufficient standard test were fully satisfied by R.A. No. 9335, as
and evident from the aforementioned Sections 2, 4 and 7 thereof.
Moreover, Section 534 of R.A. No. 9335 also provides for the
2. Where the revenue or customs official or employee is a
incentives due to District Collection Offices. While it is apparent
recent transferee in the middle of the period under consideration
that the last paragraph of Section 5 provides that "[t]he allocation, expressed public policy is the optimization of the revenue-
distribution and release of the district reward shall likewise be generation capability and collection of the BIR and the BOC. Since
prescribed by the rules and regulations of the Revenue the subject of the law is the revenue-generation capability and
Performance and Evaluation Board," Section 7 (a)35 of R.A. No. collection of the BIR and the BOC, the incentives and/or sanctions
9335 clearly mandates and sets the parameters for the Board by provided in the law should logically pertain to the said
providing that such rules and guidelines for the allocation, agencies. Moreover, the law concerns only the BIR and the BOC
distribution and release of the fund shall be in accordance with because they have the common distinct primary function of
Sections 4 and 5 of R.A. No. 9335. In sum, the Court finds that R.A. generating revenues for the national government through the
No. 9335, read and appreciated in its entirety, is complete in all its collection of taxes, customs duties, fees and charges.
essential terms and conditions, and that it contains sufficient
The BIR performs the following functions:
standards as to negate BOCEA’s supposition of undue delegation of
legislative power to the Board. "Sec. 18. The Bureau of Internal Revenue. — The Bureau of
Internal Revenue, which shall be headed by and subject to the
Similarly, we resolve the second issue in the negative.
supervision and control of the Commissioner of Internal Revenue,
Equal protection simply provides that all persons or things who shall be appointed by the President upon the
similarly situated should be treated in a similar manner, both as to recommendation of the Secretary [of the DOF], shall have the
rights conferred and responsibilities imposed. The purpose of the following functions:
equal protection clause is to secure every person within a state’s
(1) Assess and collect all taxes, fees and charges and account
jurisdiction against intentional and arbitrary discrimination,
for all revenues collected;
whether occasioned by the express terms of a statute or by its
improper execution through the state’s duly constituted (2) Exercise duly delegated police powers for the proper
authorities. In other words, the concept of equal justice under the performance of its functions and duties;
law requires the state to govern impartially, and it may not draw
(3) Prevent and prosecute tax evasions and all other illegal
distinctions between individuals solely on differences that are
economic activities;
irrelevant to a legitimate governmental objective.361awphil
(4) Exercise supervision and control over its constituent and
Thus, on the issue on equal protection of the laws, we held in
subordinate units; and
Abakada:
(5) Perform such other functions as may be provided by law.
The equal protection clause recognizes a valid classification,
that is, a classification that has a reasonable foundation or rational xxx xxx x x x"
basis and not arbitrary. With respect to RA [No.] 9335, its
On the other hand, the BOC has the following functions:
"Sec. 23. The Bureau of Customs. — The Bureau of Customs law. Hence, the classification and treatment accorded to the BIR
which shall be headed and subject to the management and control and the BOC under RA [No.] 9335 fully satisfy the demands of equal
of the Commissioner of Customs, who shall be appointed by the protection.37
President upon the recommendation of the Secretary [of the DOF]
As it was imperatively correlated to the issue on equal
and hereinafter referred to as Commissioner, shall have the
protection, the issues on the security of tenure of affected BIR and
following functions:
BOC officials and employees and their entitlement to due process
(1) Collect custom duties, taxes and the corresponding fees, were also settled in Abakada:
charges and penalties;
Clearly, RA [No.] 9335 in no way violates the security of tenure
(2) Account for all customs revenues collected; of officials and employees of the BIR and the BOC. The guarantee
of security of tenure only means that an employee cannot be
(3) Exercise police authority for the enforcement of tariff and
dismissed from the service for causes other than those provided by
customs laws;
law and only after due process is accorded the employee. In the
(4) Prevent and suppress smuggling, pilferage and all other case of RA [No.] 9335, it lays down a reasonable yardstick for
economic frauds within all ports of entry; removal (when the revenue collection falls short of the target by at
least 7.5%) with due consideration of all relevant factors affecting
(5) Supervise and control exports, imports, foreign mails and
the level of collection. This standard is analogous to inefficiency
the clearance of vessels and aircrafts in all ports of entry;
and incompetence in the performance of official duties, a ground
(6) Administer all legal requirements that are appropriate; for disciplinary action under civil service laws. The action for
removal is also subject to civil service laws, rules and regulations
(7) Prevent and prosecute smuggling and other illegal activities
and compliance with substantive and procedural due process.38
in all ports under its jurisdiction;
In addition, the essence of due process is simply an
(8) Exercise supervision and control over its constituent units;
opportunity to be heard, or as applied to administrative
(9) Perform such other functions as may be provided by law. proceedings, a fair and reasonable opportunity to explain one’s
side.39 BOCEA’s apprehension of deprivation of due process finds
xxx xxx x x x"
its answer in Section 7 (b) and (c) of R.A. No. 9335.40 The concerned
Both the BIR and the BOC are bureaus under the DOF. They BIR or BOC official or employee is not simply given a target revenue
principally perform the special function of being the collection and capriciously left without any quarter. R.A. No. 9335
instrumentalities through which the State exercises one of its great and its IRR clearly give due consideration to all relevant
inherent functions — taxation. Indubitably, such substantial factors41 that may affect the level of collection. In the same
distinction is germane and intimately related to the purpose of the manner, exemptions42 were set, contravening BOCEA’s claim that
its members may be removed for unattained target collection even — the deprivation of life or liberty or property — not by the
due to causes which are beyond their control. Moreover, an ordinary processes of judicial trial, but by legislative fiat. While cast
employee’s right to be heard is not at all prevented and his right to in the form of special legislation, a bill of attainder (or bill of pains
appeal is not deprived of him.43 In fine, a BIR or BOC official or and penalties, if it prescribed a penalty other than death) is in
employee in this case cannot be arbitrarily removed from the intent and effect a penal judgment visited upon an identified
service without according him his constitutional right to due person or group of persons (and not upon the general community)
process. No less than R.A. No. 9335 in accordance with the 1987 without a prior charge or demand, without notice and hearing,
Constitution guarantees this. without an opportunity to defend, without any of the civilized
forms and safeguards of the judicial process as we know it (People
We have spoken, and these issues were finally laid to rest.
v. Ferrer, 48 SCRA 382 [1972]; Cummings and Missouri, 4 Wall. 277,
Now, the Court proceeds to resolve the last, but new issue raised
18 L. Ed. 356 [1867]; U.S. v. Lovett, 328, U.S. 303, 90 L.Ed. 1252
by BOCEA, that is, whether R.A. No. 9335 is a bill of attainder
[1945]; U.S. v. Brown, 381 U.S. 437, 14 L.Ed. 2d. 484 [1965]. Such is
proscribed under Section 22,44 Article III of the 1987 Constitution.
the archetypal bill of attainder wielded as a means of legislative
On this score, we hold that R.A. No. 9335 is not a bill of oppression. x x x47
attainder. A bill of attainder is a legislative act which inflicts
R.A. No. 9335 does not possess the elements of a bill of
punishment on individuals or members of a particular group
attainder. It does not seek to inflict punishment without a judicial
without a judicial trial. Essential to a bill of attainder are a
trial. R.A. No. 9335 merely lays down the grounds for the
specification of certain individuals or a group of individuals, the
termination of a BIR or BOC official or employee and provides for
imposition of a punishment, penal or otherwise, and the lack of
the consequences thereof. The democratic processes are still
judicial trial.451avvphi1
followed and the constitutional rights of the concerned employee
In his Concurring Opinion in Tuason v. Register of Deeds, are amply protected.
Caloocan City,46 Justice Florentino P. Feliciano traces the roots of a
A final note.
Bill of Attainder, to wit:
We find that BOCEA’s petition is replete with allegations of
Bills of attainder are an ancient instrument of tyranny. In
defects and anomalies in allocation, distribution and receipt of
England a few centuries back, Parliament would at times enact bills
rewards. While BOCEA intimates that it intends to curb graft and
or statutes which declared certain persons attainted and their
corruption in the BOC in particular and in the government in
blood corrupted so that it lost all heritable quality (Ex Parte
general which is nothing but noble, these intentions do not actually
Garland, 4 Wall. 333, 18 L.Ed. 366 [1867]). In more modern terms,
pertain to the constitutionality of R.A. No. 9335 and its IRR, but
a bill of attainder is essentially a usurpation of judicial power by a
rather in the faithful implementation thereof. R.A. No. 9335 itself
legislative body. It envisages and effects the imposition of a penalty
does not tolerate these pernicious acts of graft and corruption.48 As
the Court is not a trier of facts, the investigation on the veracity of, Registration during the years 1998, 1999, 2000 and 2001 was then
and the proper action on these anomalies are in the hands of the discovered by the investigators.
Executive branch. Correlatively, the wisdom for the enactment of
According to the investigators, a total of 106 receipts were
this law remains within the domain of the Legislative branch. We
tampered. The scheme was done by detaching the Plate Release
merely interpret the law as it is. The Court has no discretion to give
and Owner’s copy from the set of official receipts then typing
statutes a meaning detached from the manifest intendment and
thereon the correct details corresponding to the vehicle registered,
language thereof.49 Just like any other law, R.A. No. 9335 has in its
the owner’s name and address, and the correct amount of
favor the presumption of constitutionality, and to justify its
registration fees. The other copies, consisting of the copies for the
nullification, there must be a clear and unequivocal breach of the
Collector, EDP, Record, Auditor, and Regional Office, meanwhile,
Constitution and not one that is doubtful, speculative, or
were typed on to make it appear that the receipts were issued
argumentative.50 We have so declared in Abakada, and we now
mostly for the registration of motorcycles with much lower
reiterate that R.A. No. 9335 and its IRR are constitutional.
registration charges. Incorrect names and/or addresses were also
WHEREFORE, the present petition for certiorari and used on said file copies. The difference between the amounts paid
prohibition with prayer for injunctive relief/s is DISMISSED. by the vehicle owners and the amounts appearing on the file copies
were then pocketed by the perpetrators, and only the lower
No costs.
amounts appearing on the retained duplicate file copies were
SO ORDERED. reported in the Report of Collections.5 According to State Auditors
Cabalit and Coloma in their Joint-Affidavit, the scheme was
G.R. No. 180236 January 17, 2012
perpetrated by LTO employees Leonardo G. Olaivar, Gemma P.
GEMMA P. CABALIT, Petitioner, Cabalit, Filadelfo S. Apit and Samuel T. Alabat, and resulted in an
vs. unreported income totaling ₱169,642.50.6
COMMISSION ON AUDIT-REGION VII, Respondent.
On August 8, 2002, COA Regional Cluster Director Atty. Roy L.
On September 4, 2001, the Philippine Star News, a local Ursal reported the tampering of official receipts to Deputy
newspaper in Cebu City, reported that employees of the LTO in Ombudsman Primo C. Miro.7 According to Atty. Ursal, the
Jagna, Bohol, are shortchanging the government by tampering with irregularity is penalized under Article 217, in relation to Article 171
their income reports.4 Accordingly, Regional Director Ildefonso T. of the Revised Penal Code;8 Section 3(e)9 of the Anti-Graft and
Deloria of the Commission on Audit (COA) directed State Auditors Corrupt Practices Act, and likewise violates Republic Act (R.A.) No.
Teodocio D. Cabalit and Emmanuel L. Coloma of the Provincial 6713.10
Revenue Audit Group to conduct a fact-finding investigation. A
In a Joint Evaluation Report, Graft Investigators Pio R.
widespread tampering of official receipts of Motor Vehicle
Dargantes and Virginia Palanca-Santiago found grounds to conduct
a preliminary investigation.11 Hence, a formal charge for dishonesty copy, he noticed that the amounts shown in the original copies
was filed against Olaivar, Cabalit, Apit and Alabat before the Office were much bigger than those appearing in the file copies. State
of the Ombudsman-Visayas, and the parties were required to Auditor Cabalit also declared that the basis for implicating Olaivar
submit their counter-affidavits. is the fact that his signature appears in all the 106 tampered official
receipts and he signed as verified correct the Report of Collections,
In compliance, Olaivar, Cabalit, Apit and Alabat submitted
which included the tampered receipts. As to Apit and Cabalit, they
separate counter-affidavits, all essentially denying knowledge and
are the other signatories of the official receipts.16 In some official
responsibility for the anomalies. As to Olaivar, he maintained that
receipts, the Owner’s copy is signed by F.S. Apit as Computer
the receipts were typed outside his office by regular and casual
Evaluator, G.P. Cabalit as Cashier, and Leonardo Olaivar as District
employees. He claimed that the receipts were presented to him
Head, but their signatures do not appear on the file copies.17
only for signature and he does not receive the payment when he
signs the receipts.12 Cabalit, for her part, claimed that her duty as On February 12, 2004, the Office of the Ombudsman-Visayas
cashier was to receive collections turned over to her and to deposit directed18 the parties to submit their position papers pursuant to
them in the Land Bank of the Philippines in Tagbilaran City. She Administrative Order (A.O.) No. 17, dated September 7, 2003,
claimed that she was not even aware of any anomaly in the amending the Rules of Procedure of the Office of the
collection of fees prior to the investigation.13 As to Apit, he Ombudsman.19 No cross-examination of State Auditor Cabalit was
admitted that he countersigned the official receipts, but he too therefore conducted.
denied being aware of any illegal activity in their office. He claimed
Complying with the above Order, the COA submitted its
that upon being informed of the charge, he verified the
position paper on March 18, 2004. Olaivar, Cabalit and Apit, for
photocopies of the tampered receipts and was surprised to find
their part, respectively submitted their position papers on April 29,
that the signatures above his name were falsified.14 Alabat,
2004, March 18, 2004 and March 15, 2004.
meanwhile, claimed he did not tamper, alter or falsify any public
document in the performance of his duties. He insisted that the In its position paper,20 the COA pointed out that the signatures
initial above his name on Official Receipt No. 64056082 was Apit’s, of Cabalit, Apit and Olaivar were indispensable to the issuance of
while the initial on Official Receipt No. 64056813 was that of the receipts. As to Olaivar, the original receipts bear his signature,
Olaivar.15 thereby showing that he approved of the amounts collected for the
registration charges. However, when the receipts were reported in
During the hearing before Graft Investigator Pio R. Dargantes,
the Report of Collections, the data therein were already tampered
State Auditor Cabalit testified on the investigation he conducted in
reflecting a much lesser amount. By affixing his signature on the
the LTO in Jagna, Bohol. He testified that he was furnished with the
Report of Collections and thereby attesting that the entries therein
owner’s and duplicate copies of the tampered receipts. Upon
were verified by him as correct, he allowed the scheme to be
comparison of the Owner’s copy with the Collector or Record’s
perpetrated. As to Cabalit, the COA pointed out that as cashier,
Cabalit’s signature on the receipts signified that she received the Record’s copy) will be forwarded to the Releasing Section for
registration fees. The correct amounts should have therefore distribution and release.
appeared in the Report of Collections, but as already stated, lesser
Cabalit insisted that on several occasions Olaivar disregarded
amounts appeared on the Report of Collections, which she
the standard procedure and directly accommodated some
prepares. In the same manner, Apit, as computer evaluator, also
registrants who were either his friends or referred to him by
signed the subject receipts allowing the irregularities to be
friends. For such transactions, Olaivar assumes the functions of
perpetuated.1avvphi1
computer evaluator, typist and cashier, as he is the one who
In his position paper,21 Olaivar meanwhile insisted that he had computes the fees, receives the payment and prepares the official
no participation in the anomalies. He stressed that his only role in receipts. Olaivar would then remit the payment to her. As the
the issuance of the official receipts was to review and approve the cashier, she has to accept the payment as a matter of ministerial
applications, and that he was the last one to sign the official duty.
receipts. He argued that based on the standard procedure for the
Apit, meanwhile, stressed in his position paper23 that the
processing of applications for registration of motor vehicles, it
strokes of the signatures appearing above his typewritten name on
could be deduced that there was a concerted effort or conspiracy
the official receipts are different, indicating that the same are
among the evaluator, typist and cashier, while he was kept blind of
falsified. He also explained that considering that the LTO in Jagna
their modus operandi.
issues around 20 to 25 receipts a day, he signed the receipts relying
Cabalit, for her part, questioned the findings of the on the faith that his co-employees had properly accomplished the
investigators. She stressed in her position paper22 that had there forms. He also pointed out that Engr. Dano admitted signing
been a thorough investigation of the questioned official receipts, accomplished official receipts when the regular computer encoder
the auditors would have discovered that the signatures appearing is out, which just shows that other personnel could have signed
above her name were actually that of Olaivar. She outlined the above the name of F.S. Apit.lawphil
standard paper flow of a regular transaction at the LTO. It begins
On May 3, 2004, the Office of the Ombudsman-Visayas
when the registrant goes to the computer evaluator for the
rendered judgment finding petitioners liable for dishonesty for
computation of applicable fees and proceeds to the cashier for
tampering the official receipts to make it appear that they collected
payment. After paying, the typist will prepare the official receipts
lesser amounts than they actually collected. The OMB-Visayas
consisting of seven (7) copies, which will be routed to the computer
ruled:
evaluator, to the district head, and to the cashier for signature. The
cashier retains the copies for the EDP, Regional Office, Collector WHEREFORE, premises considered, it is hereby resolved that
and Auditor, while the remaining copies (Owner, Plate Release and the following respondents be found guilty of the administrative
infraction of DISHONESTY and accordingly be meted out the
penalty of DISMISSAL FROM THE SERVICE with the accessory WHEREFORE, premises considered, judgment is hereby
penalties of cancellation of civil service eligibility, forfeiture of rendered by US DISMISSING the instant consolidated petitions. The
retirement benefits and disqualification from re-employment in assailed decision of the Office of the Ombudsman-Visayas dated
the government service: May 3, 2004 in OMB-V-A-02-0415-H is hereby AFFIRMED with a
modification that petitioner Olaivar be held administratively liable
1. Leonardo G. Olaivar -Transportation Regulation Officer II/
for gross neglect of duty which carries the same penalty as
Office[r]-In-Charge
provided for dishonesty. No pronouncement as to costs.
LTO Jagna District Office
SO ORDERED.26
Jagna, Bohol;
According to the CA, it was unbelievable that from 1998 to
2. Gemma P. Cabalit - Cashier II, LTO Jagna District Office Jagna, 2001, Cabalit and Apit performed vital functions by routinely
Bohol; signing LTO official receipts but did not have any knowledge of the
irregularity in their office. With regard to Olaivar, the CA believed
3. Filadelpo S. Apit - Clerk II, LTO Jagna District Office Jagna,
that the tampering of the receipts could have been avoided had he
Bohol;
exercised the required diligence in the performance of his duties.
The complaint against respondent Samuel T. Alabat, presently Thus, the CA held him liable merely for gross neglect of duty.
the Head of Apprehension Unit of the Tagbilaran City LTO, is hereby
Petitioners sought reconsideration of the CA decision, but the
DISMISSED for insufficiency of evidence.
CA denied their motions.27 Hence, they filed the instant petitions
The complaint regarding the LTO official receipts/MVRRs before the Court.
issued by the LTO Jagna District Office, which are not covered by
In her petition, petitioner Cabalit argues that
original copies are hereby DISMISSED without prejudice to the
filing of the appropriate charges upon the recovery of the original I. THE HONORABLE COURT OF APPEALS GRAVELY ERRED IN
copies thereof. AFFIRMING THE OMBUDSMAN'S DECISION WHICH GAVE
RETROACTIVE EFFECT TO THE NEW ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER NO.
SO DECIDED.24
17 IN THE PROCEEDINGS BELOW THAT WAS ALREADY ON TRIAL IN
Petitioners sought reconsideration of the decision, but their ACCORDANCE WITH ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER NO. 07.
motions were denied by the Ombudsman.25 Thus, they separately
II. THE HONORABLE COURT OF APPEALS GRAVELY ERRED IN
sought recourse from the CA.
HOLDING THAT ALTHOUGH THE TRIAL TYPE HEARING UNDER
On January 18, 2006, the CA promulgated the assailed Decision ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER NO. 07 DID NOT PUSH THRU, PETITIONER
in CA-G.R. SP. Nos. 86256, 86394 and 00047. The dispositive WAS STILL ACCORDED HER RIGHT TO DUE PROCESS UNDER THE
portion of the CA decision reads,
SUMMARY PROCEEDINGS PURSUANT TO ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER I. WHETHER THE HONORABLE COURT OF APPEALS ERRED IN
NO. 17. FINDING THAT PETITIONER LEONARDO G. OLAIVAR IS
ADMINISTRATIVELY LIABLE FOR GROSS NEGLIGENCE.
III. THE HONORABLE COURT OF APPEALS COMMITTED A
REVERSIBLE ERROR WHEN IT AFFIRMED THE DECISION OF II. WHETHER THE HONORABLE COURT OF APPEALS ERRED
RESPONDENT OMBUDSMAN DESPITE HAVING FAILED TO MAKE A WHEN IT HELD THAT PETITIONER LEONARDO G. OLAIVAR WAS NOT
CATEGORICAL RULING ON THE ISSUE OF WHETHER THE DENIED DUE PROCESS WHEN THE OFFICE OF THE OMBUDSMAN
QUESTIONED AND/OR FORGED SIGNATURES BELONG TO VISAYAS FOUND HIM GUILTY FOR DISHONESTY AND METED OUT
PETITIONER GEMMA CABALIT. THE PENALTY OF DISMISSAL FROM SERVICE.30
IV. THE HONORABLE COURT OF APPEALS COMMITTED A On January 15, 2008, said petitions were consolidated.31
REVERSIBLE ERROR WHEN IT FAILED TO RULE ON THE DOCTRINAL
Essentially, the issues for our resolution are: (1) whether there
VALUE AND/OR APPLICABILITY OF THE TAPIADOR VS. OFFICE OF
was a violation of the right to due process when the hearing officer
THE OMBUDSMAN (G.R. [129124], MARCH 15, 2002) RULING HERE
at the Office of the Ombudsman-Visayas adopted the procedure
IN THE INSTANT CASE.28
under A.O. No. 17 notwithstanding the fact that the said
Meanwhile, Apit interposes the following arguments in his amendatory order took effect after the hearings had started; and
petition: (2) whether Cabalit, Apit and Olaivar are administratively liable.
I. THE COURT OF APPEALS ERRED IN LIMITING As regards the first issue, petitioners claim that they were
ADMINISTRATIVE DUE PROCESS AS AN OPPORTUNITY TO BE denied due process of law when the investigating lawyer proceeded
HEARD ONLY. to resolve the case based only on the affidavits and other evidence
on record without conducting a formal hearing. They lament that
II. THE COURT OF APPEALS ERRED IN CONCLUDING THE
the case was submitted for decision without giving them
DEFENSE OF PETITIONER APIT AS MERE DENIAL.
opportunity to present witnesses and cross-examine the witnesses
III. THE COURT OF APPEALS ERRED IN ITS FAILURE TO against them. Petitioner Cabalit also argues that the Office of the
RECONSIDER THE EVIDENCE THAT CLEARLY PROVED THAT THE Ombudsman erred in applying the amendments under A.O. No. 17
SIGNATURES ABOVE THE NAME OF PETITIONER APIT IN THE to the trial of the case, which was already in progress under the old
QUESTIONED RECEIPTS ARE ALL FORGED AND FALSIFIED.29 procedures under A.O. No. 07. She stressed that under A.O. No. 07,
she had the right to choose whether to avail of a formal
As for Olaivar, he assails the CA Decision raising the following
investigation or to submit the case for resolution on the basis of
issues:
the evidence on record. Here, she was not given such option and
was merely required to submit her position paper.
Petitioners’ arguments deserve scant consideration. retroactive application to pending actions. The retroactive
application of procedural laws is not violative of any right of a
Suffice to say, petitioners were not denied due process of law
person who may feel that he is adversely affected. Nor is the
when the investigating lawyer proceeded to resolve the case based
retroactive application of procedural statutes constitutionally
on the affidavits and other evidence on record. Section
objectionable. The reason is that as a general rule no vested right
5(b)(1)32 Rule 3, of the Rules of Procedure of the Office of the
may attach to, nor arise from, procedural laws. It has been held
Ombudsman, as amended by A.O. No. 17, plainly provides that the
that "a person has no vested right in any particular remedy, and a
hearing officer may issue an order directing the parties to file,
litigant cannot insist on the application to the trial of his case,
within ten days from receipt of the order, their respective verified
whether civil or criminal, of any other than the existing rules of
position papers on the basis of which, along with the attachments
procedure. (Emphasis supplied.)
thereto, the hearing officer may consider the case submitted for
decision. It is only when the hearing officer determines that based While the rule admits of certain exceptions, such as when the
on the evidence, there is a need to conduct clarificatory hearings statute itself expressly or by necessary implication provides that
or formal investigations under Section 5(b)(2) and Section 5(b)(3) pending actions are excepted from its operation, or where to apply
that such further proceedings will be conducted. But the it would impair vested rights, petitioners failed to show that
determination of the necessity for further proceedings rests on the application of A.O. No. 17 to their case would cause injustice to
sound discretion of the hearing officer. As the petitioners have them. Indeed, in this case, the Office of the Ombudsman afforded
utterly failed to show any cogent reason why the hearing officer’s petitioners every opportunity to defend themselves by allowing
determination should be overturned, the determination will not be them to submit counter-affidavits, position papers, memoranda
disturbed by this Court. We likewise find no merit in their and other evidence in their defense. Since petitioners have been
contention that the new procedures under A.O. No. 17, which took afforded the right to be heard and to defend themselves, they
effect while the case was already undergoing trial before the cannot rightfully complain that they were denied due process of
hearing officer, should not have been applied. law. Well to remember, due process, as a constitutional precept,
does not always and in all situations require a trial-type proceeding.
The rule in this jurisdiction is that one does not have a vested
It is satisfied when a person is notified of the charge against him
right in procedural rules. In Tan, Jr. v. Court of Appeals,33 the Court
and given an opportunity to explain or defend himself. In
elucidated:
administrative proceedings, the filing of charges and giving
Statutes regulating the procedure of the courts will be reasonable opportunity for the person so charged to answer the
construed as applicable to actions pending and undetermined at accusations against him constitute the minimum requirements of
the time of their passage. Procedural laws are retroactive in that due process. More often, this opportunity is conferred through
sense and to that extent. The fact that procedural statutes may written pleadings that the parties submit to present their charges
somehow affect the litigants’ rights may not preclude their and defenses.34 But as long as a party is given the opportunity to
defend his or her interests in due course, said party is not denied questions of fact are not entertained. We elucidated on our fidelity
due process.35 to this rule, and we said:
Neither is there merit to Cabalit’s assertion that she should Thus, only questions of law may be brought by the parties and
have been investigated under the "old rules of procedure" of the passed upon by this Court in the exercise of its power to review.
Office of the Ombudsman, and not under the "new rules." Also, judicial review by this Court does not extend to a reevaluation
In Marohomsalic v. Cole,36 we clarified that the Office of the of the sufficiency of the evidence upon which the proper x x x
Ombudsman has only one set of rules of procedure and that is A.O. tribunal has based its determination. (Emphasis supplied.)
No. 07, series of 1990, as amended. There have been various
It is aphoristic that a re-examination of factual findings cannot
amendments made thereto but it has remained, to date,
be done through a petition for review on certiorari under Rule 45 of
the only set of rules of procedure governing cases filed in the Office
the Rules of Court because this Court is not a trier of facts; it reviews
of the Ombudsman. Hence, the phrase "as amended" is correctly
only questions of law. The Supreme Court is not duty-bound to
appended to A.O. No. 7 every time it is invoked. A.O. No. 17 is just
analyze and weigh again the evidence considered in the
one example of these amendments.
proceedings below. 38
But did the CA correctly rule that petitioners Cabalit and Apit
Here, the CA affirmed the findings of fact of the Office of the
are liable for dishonesty while petitioner Olaivar is liable for gross
Ombudsman-Visayas which are supported by substantial evidence
neglect of duty?
such as affidavits of witnesses and copies of the tampered official
Cabalit argues that the CA erred in affirming the decision of the receipts.39 The CA found that a perusal of the questioned receipts
Ombudsman finding her liable for dishonesty. She asserts that it would easily reveal the discrepancies between the date, name and
was not established by substantial evidence that the forged vehicle in the Owner's or Plate Release copies and the File, Auditor,
signatures belong to her. Meanwhile, Apit contends that the CA and Regional Office copies. It upheld the factual findings of the
erred in not considering evidence which proves that the signatures Ombudsman that petitioners Cabalit and Apit tampered with the
appearing above his name are falsified. However, we note that both duplicates of the official receipts to make it appear that they
Cabalit and Apit raise essentially factual issues which are not proper collected a lesser amount. Their participation was found to have
in petitions filed under Rule 45. Settled jurisprudence dictates that been indispensable as the irregularities could not have been
subject to a few exceptions, only questions of law may be brought committed without their participation. They also concealed the
before the Court via a petition for review on certiorari. In Diokno v. misappropriation of public funds by falsifying the receipts.
Cacdac,37 the Court held:
Now, superior courts are not triers of facts. When the findings
x x x [T]he scope of this Court’s judicial review of decisions of of fact of the Ombudsman are supported by substantial evidence, it
the Court of Appeals is generally confined only to errors of law, and should be considered as conclusive.40 This Court recognizes the
expertise and independence of the Ombudsman and will avoid affidavit43 that he personally paid Olaivar the sum of ₱2,675 for the
interfering with its findings absent a finding of grave abuse of renewal of registration of a jeep for which he was issued Official
discretion.41 Hence, being supported by substantial evidence, we Receipt No. 47699853. Much to his dismay, Taladua later found out
find no reason to disturb the factual findings of the Ombudsman that his payment was not reflected correctly in the Report of
which are affirmed by the CA. Collections, and that the vehicle was deemed unregistered for the
year 2000.
As for Olaivar, he insists that the CA erred in holding him
administratively liable for gross negligence when he relied to a More, Cabalit pointed to Olaivar as the person behind the
reasonable extent and in good faith on the actions of his anomaly in the LTO-Jagna District Office. She narrated in her
subordinates in the preparation of the applications for registration. position paper that on several times, Olaivar directly
He questions the appellate court’s finding that he failed to exercise accommodated some registrants and assumed the functions of
the required diligence in the performance of his duties.1avvphi1 computer evaluator, typist and cashier, and computed the fees,
received payment and prepared the official receipts for those
While as stated above, the general rule is that factual findings
transactions. She also revealed that Olaivar would ask her for
of the CA are not reviewable by this Court, we find that Olaivar’s
unused official receipts and would later return the duplicate copies
case falls in one of the recognized exceptions laid down
to her with the cash collections. Later, he would verify the Report
in jurisprudence since the CA’s findings regarding his liability are
of Collections as correct.44
premised on the supposed absence of evidence but contradicted
by the evidence on record.42 Likewise, Motor Vehicle Inspector Engr. Lowell A. Dano
confirmed that in several instances, he witnessed Olaivar type the
The Office of the Ombudsman-Visayas found Olaivar
data himself in the official receipts even if they have a typist in the
administratively liable for dishonesty while the CA ruled that he
office to do the job. Engr. Dano added that after typing, Olaivar
may not be held liable for dishonesty supposedly for lack of
personally brought the accomplished official receipts for him (Engr.
sufficient evidence. The CA ruled that there was no substantial
Dano) to sign.45
evidence to show that Olaivar participated in the scheme, but the
tampering of the official receipts could have been avoided had he Moreover, Jacinto Jalop, the records officer of the LTO in
exercised the required diligence in the performance of his duties as Jagna, Bohol, illustrated how the official receipts were tampered.
officer-in-charge of the Jagna District Office. Thus, the CA found He disclosed that the correct charges were typed in the Owner’s
him liable only for gross neglect of duty. This, however, is clear copy and the Plate Release copy of the official receipts, but a much
error on the part of the CA. lower charge and an incorrect address were indicated in the other
copies. He asserted that Olaivar was responsible for tampering the
For one, there is clear evidence that Olaivar was involved in the
official receipts.46
anomalies. Witness Joselito Taladua categorically declared in his
Neglect of duty implies only the failure to give proper attention employee is not merely advisory or recommendatory but is actually
to a task expected of an employee arising from either carelessness mandatory." Implementation of the order imposing the penalty is,
or indifference.47 However, the facts of this case show more than a however, to be coursed through the proper officer. Recently,
failure to mind one’s task. Rather, they manifest that Olaivar in Office of the Ombudsman v. Court of Appeals, we also held—
committed acts of dishonesty, which is defined as the concealment
‘While Section 15(3) of RA 6770 states that the Ombudsman
or distortion of truth in a matter of fact relevant to one’s office or
has the power to "recommend x x x removal, suspension, demotion
connected with the performance of his duty. It implies a disposition
x x x" of government officials and employees, the same Section
to lie, cheat, deceive, or defraud; untrustworthiness; lack of
15(3) also states that the Ombudsman in the alternative may
integrity; lack of honesty, probity, or integrity in principle.48Hence,
"enforce its disciplinary authority as provided in Section 21" of RA
the CA should have found Olaivar liable for dishonesty.
6770.’ (emphasis supplied.)53
But be that as it may, still, the CA correctly imposed the proper
Subsequently, in Ledesma v. Court of Appeals,54 and Office of
penalty upon Olaivar. Under Section 52, Rule IV of the Uniform
the Ombudsman v. Court of Appeals,55 the Court upheld the
Rules on Administrative Cases in the Civil Service, dishonesty, like
Ombudsman’s power to impose the penalty of removal,
gross neglect of duty, is classified as a grave offense punishable by
suspension, demotion, fine, censure, or prosecution of a public
dismissal even if committed for the first time.49 Under Section
officer or employee found to be at fault in the exercise of its
58,50 such penalty likewise carries with it the accessory penalties of
administrative disciplinary authority. In Office of the Ombudsman
cancellation of civil service eligibility, forfeiture of retirement
v. Court of Appeals, we held that the exercise of such power is well
benefits and disqualification from re-employment in the
founded in the Constitution and R.A. No. 6770, otherwise known
government service.
as The Ombudsman Act of 1989, thus:
One final note. Cabalit contends that pursuant to the obiter in
The Court further explained in Ledesma that the mandatory
Tapiador v. Office of the Ombudsman,51 the Office of the
character of the Ombudsman’s order imposing a sanction should
Ombudsman can only recommend administrative sanctions and not
not be interpreted as usurpation of the authority of the head of
directly impose them. However, in Office of the Ombudsman v.
office or any officer concerned. This is because the power of the
Masing,52 this Court has already settled the issue when we ruled
Ombudsman to investigate and prosecute any illegal act or
that the power of the Ombudsman to determine and impose
omission of any public official is not an exclusive authority but a
administrative liability is not merely recommendatory but actually
shared or concurrent authority in respect of the offense charged.
mandatory. We held,
By stating therefore that the Ombudsman "recommends" the
We reiterated this ruling in Office of the Ombudsman v. Laja, action to be taken against an erring officer or employee, the
where we emphasized that "the Ombudsman’s order to remove, provisions in the Constitution and in Republic Act No. 6770
suspend, demote, fine, censure, or prosecute an officer or
intended that the implementation of the order be coursed through comply with an order of the Ombudsman to remove, suspend,
the proper officer. demote, fine, censure or prosecute an officer or employee who is
at fault or who neglects to perform an act or discharge a duty
Consequently in Ledesma, the Court affirmed the appellate
required by law shall be a ground for disciplinary action against said
court’s decision which had, in turn, affirmed an order of the Office
officer.
of the Ombudsman imposing the penalty of suspension on the
erring public official.56 xxxx
The duty and privilege of the Ombudsman to act as protector Section 19 of R.A. No. 6770 grants to the Ombudsman the
of the people against the illegal and unjust acts of those who are in authority to act on all administrative complaints:
the public service emanate from no less than the 1987
SEC. 19. Administrative Complaints. – The Ombudsman shall
Constitution. Section 12 of Article XI thereof states:
act on all complaints relating, but not limited to acts or omissions
Section 12. The Ombudsman and his Deputies, as protectors of which:
the people, shall act promptly on complaints filed in any form or
(1) Are contrary to law or regulation;
manner against public officials or employees of the Government,
or any subdivision, agency or instrumentality thereof, including (2) Are unreasonable, unfair, oppressive or discriminatory;
government-owned or controlled corporations, and shall, in
(3) Are inconsistent with the general course of an agency’s
appropriate cases, notify the complainants of the action taken and
functions, though in accordance with law;
the result thereof.
(4) Proceed from a mistake of law or an arbitrary
In addition, Section 15 (3) of R.A. No. 6770, provides:
ascertainment of facts;
SEC. 15. Powers, Functions and Duties. – The Office of the
(5) Are in the exercise of discretionary powers but for an
Ombudsman shall have the following powers, functions and duties:
improper purpose; or
xxxx
(6) Are otherwise irregular, immoral or devoid of justification.
(3) Direct the officer concerned to take appropriate action
In the exercise of his duties, the Ombudsman is given full
against a public officer or employee at fault or who neglects to
administrative disciplinary authority. His power is not limited
perform an act or discharge a duty required by law, and
merely to receiving, processing complaints, or recommending
recommend his removal, suspension, demotion, fine, censure, or
penalties. He is to conduct investigations, hold hearings, summon
prosecution, and ensure compliance therewith; or enforce its
witnesses and require production of evidence and place
disciplinary authority as provided in Section 21 of this
respondents under preventive suspension. This includes the power
Act: Provided, That the refusal by any officer without just cause to
to impose the penalty of removal, suspension, demotion, fine, or penalty of dismissal from the service as well as the accessory
censure of a public officer or employee.57 penalties inherent to said penalty.
The provisions in R.A. No. 6770 taken together reveal the With costs against petitioners.
manifest intent of the lawmakers to bestow on the Office of the
SO ORDERED.
Ombudsman full administrative disciplinary authority. These
provisions cover the entire gamut of administrative adjudication
which entails the authority to, inter alia, receive complaints,
conduct investigations, hold hearings in accordance with its rules
of procedure, summon witnesses and require the production of
documents, place under preventive suspension public officers and
employees pending an investigation, determine the appropriate
penalty imposable on erring public officers or employees as
warranted by the evidence, and, necessarily, impose the said
penalty.58 Thus, it is settled that the Office of the Ombudsman can
directly impose administrative sanctions.
We find it worthy to state at this point that public service
requires integrity and discipline.1avvphi1 For this reason, public
servants must exhibit at all times the highest sense of honesty and
dedication to duty. By the very nature of their duties and
responsibilities, public officers and employees must faithfully
adhere to hold sacred and render inviolate the constitutional
principle that a public office is a public trust; and must at all times
be accountable to the people, serve them with utmost
responsibility, integrity, loyalty and efficiency.59
WHEREFORE, the petitions for review on certiorari
are DENIED. The assailed Decision dated January 18, 2006 and
Resolution dated September 21, 2007 of the Court of Appeals in
CA-G.R. SP. Nos. 86256, 86394 and 00047
are AFFIRMED with MODIFICATION. Petitioner Leonardo G. Olaivar
is held administratively liable for DISHONESTY and meted the
a "preparatory" Deed of Sale that the respondent converted into a
Deed of Absolute Sale in favor of his relatives.
After the submission of the respondent's comment to the
complaint, the Court referred the complaint to the Commission on
Bar Discipline ofthe Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) for
investigation, evaluation and recommendation.
The complainant alleged that she and her late husband are the
registered owners of two (2) parcels of land covered by Transfer
Certificate of Title ( TCT) Nos. 162632 and 162633 located at
Barangay Sta. Lourdes, Puerto Princesa City. Prior to the acquisition
of these properties, TCT No. 162632 (property) was already the
subject of expropriation proceedings filed by the City Government
of Puerto Princesa (City Government) on May 23, 1996 against its
former registered owner, Cirilo Arellano. The expropriation case
was filed with the Regional Trial Court (RTC) of Palawan and Puerto
Princesa, Branch 95, and was docketed as Civil Case No. 2902. The
RTC already fixed the price and issued an order for the City
Government to deposit ₱6,000,000.00 as just compensation for the
property.2
The respondent briefly represented the complainant and her
late husband in the expropriation case as intervenors for being the
Adm. Case No. 6475 January 30, 2013 new registered owners of the property. The complainant alleged
FE A. YLAYA, Complainant, that the respondent convinced them to sign a "preparatory deed
vs. of sale" for the sale of the property, but he left blank the space for
ATTY. GLENN CARLOS GACOTT, Respondent. the name of the buyer and for the amount of consideration. The
respondent further alleged that the deed would be used in the sale
For the Court's consideration is the disbarment to the City Government when the RTC issues the order to transfer
complaint1 tiled by Fe A. Ylaya (complainant) against Atty. Glenn the titles.3 The respondent then fraudulently – without their
Carlos Gacott (respondent) who allegedly deceived the knowledge and consent, and contrary to their understanding –
complainant and her late husband, Laurentino L. Ylaya, into signing converted the "preparatory deed of sale" into a Deed of Absolute
Sale dated June 4, 2001,4 selling the subject property to Reynold So buyer’s legal age, marital status, and citizenship,16 and he was even
and Sylvia Carlos So for ₱200,000.00.5 constrained to file a subsequent Motion to Intervene on behalf of
Reynold because the complainant "maliciously retained" the TCTs
The complainant denied that she and Laurentino were paid the
to the subject properties after borrowing them from his
₱200,000.00 purchase price or that they would sell the property
office.17 Lastly, he denied violating the Rules on Notarial Practice.18
"for such a measly sum" when they stood to get at least
₱6,000,000.00 as just compensation.6 On September 4, 2006, the respondent filed a Motion to
Resolve or Decide the Case dated August 24, 2006 praying for the
The complainant also claimed that the respondent notarized
early resolution of the complaint.19
the Deed of Absolute Sale dated June 4, 2001 even though Reynold
and Sylvia (his mother’s sister) are his uncle and his aunt, On December 5, 2006, the complainant filed an Ex Parte
respectively.7 Motion to Withdraw the Verified Complaint and To Dismiss the
Case dated November 14, 2006.20
The respondent denied all the allegations in the complaint.8
On February 28, 2008, the complainant executed an
The respondent argued that the complainant’s greed to get the
Affidavit21 affirming and confirming the existence, genuineness
just Compensation9 caused her to file this "baseless, unfounded
and due execution of the Deed of Absolute Sale notarized on March
and malicious" disbarment case.10 He claimed that the sale was
6, 2000;22 the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) dated April 19,
their voluntary transaction and that he "simply ratified the
2000;23 and the Deed of Absolute Sale notarized in 2001.24 The
document."11 He also claimed that Reynold and Laurentino had
respondent submitted this Affidavit to the IBP as an attachment to
originally jointly purchased the properties from Cirilo Arellano on
his Motion for Reconsideration of April 21, 2008.25
July 10, 2000; that they were co-owners for some time; and that
Laurentino subsequently sold his share to Reynold under a Deed of The IBP’s Findings
Absolute Sale dated June 4, 2001.12
In her Report and Recommendation dated November 19,
The respondent specifically denied asking the complainant and 2007, IBP Commissioner Anna Caridad Sazon-Dupaya found the
her late husband to execute any "preparatory deed of sale" in favor respondent administratively liable for violating Canon 1, Rule 1.01
of the City Government.13 He also denied that the Deed of Absolute (A lawyer shall not engage in unlawful, dishonest, immoral or
Sale contained blanks when they signed it.14 That he filed for the deceitful conduct) and Canon 16 ("A lawyer shall hold in trust all
spouses Ylaya and Reynold an opposition to the just compensation moneys and properties of his client that may come into his
the RTC fixed proved that there was no agreement to use the possession) of the Code of Professional Responsibility, and Section
document for the expropriation case.15 He also argued that it was 3(c), Rule IV of A.M. No. 02-8-13-SC (2004 Rules on Notarial
clear from the document that the intended buyer was a natural Practice).26 She recommended his suspension from the practice of
person, not a juridical person, because there were spaces for the law for a period of six (6) months.27
In its Resolution No. XVIII-2007-30228 dated December 14, By Resolution No. XIX-2010-545 dated October 8, 2010,31 the
2007, the IBP Board of Governors adopted the IBP Commissioner’s IBP Board of Governors denied the respondent’s Motion for
finding, but increased the penalty imposed to two (2) years Reconsideration for failing to raise any new substantial matter or
suspension and a warning: any cogent reason to warrant a reversal or even a modification of
its Resolution No. XVIII-2007-302.32
RESOLVED to ADOPT and APPROVE, as it is hereby
unanimously ADOPTED and APPROVED, with modification, the On March 14, 2012, the respondent filed a Petition for Review
Report and Recommendation of the Investigating Commissioner (on appeal) assailing the IBP’s findings, as follows:33
[in] the above-entitled case, herein made part of this Resolution as
a) In conveniently concluding that the Deed of Absolute Sale
Annex "A"; and, finding the recommendation fully supported by
was pre-signed and fraudulently notarized without requiring Fe
the evidence on record and the applicable laws and rules, and
Ylaya to adduce evidence in a formal hearing thus, violated the
considering respondent’s violations of Canon 1, [Rule] 1.01 and
respondent’s right to due process as he was not able to cross-
Canon 16 of the Code of Professional Responsibility and Rule IV,
examine her. This is not to mention that the complainant failed to
Sec. 39(c) of A.M. No. 02-8-13-SC (2004 Rules on Notarial Practice),
offer corroborative proof to prove her bare allegations;
Atty. Glenn Carlos Gacott is hereby SUSPENDED from practice of
law for two (2) years with a Warning that commission of a similar b) In sweepingly and arbitrarily disregarded/skirted (sic) the
offense will be dealt with more severely. [emphases supplied] public documents (MOA and 2 other DOAS) duly executed by the
parties therein and notarized by the respondent;
On May 8, 2008, the respondent filed a Motion for
Reconsideration dated April 21, 2008, attaching, among others, a c) In totally ignoring the complainant’s Affidavit admitting the
copy of the complainant’s Affidavit dated February 27, 2008, genuineness and due execution of the Deed of Absolute Sale in
admitting the existence, genuineness and due execution of the issue;
Deed of Absolute Sale between Cirilo and Laurentino; the MOA
d) In arbitrarily concluding the absence of co-ownership by
between Laurentino and Reynold; the Deed of Absolute Sale
Reynold So and Fe Ylaya of the subject lots despite the existence of
between Laurentino and Reynold; and the Compromise Agreement
a notarized MOA clearly showing the co-ownership of Ylaya and So;
between Reynold and the complainant dated November 14, 2006
and
for the expropriation case.29
e) In finding the respondent/appellant’s act of notarizing the
On September 4, 2008, the respondent filed a Manifestation
DOAS as contrary to the notarial rules.
with the Supreme Court, requesting that the IBP be directed to
resolve his Motion for Reconsideration.30 The Issues
From the assigned errors, the complainant poses the following
issues:
(1) whether the IBP violated the respondent’s right to due defend himself, to cross examine the witness complainant, to
process; and object to the admissibility of documents or present controverting
evidence"36 when the IBP rendered its conclusion without
(2) whether the evidence presented supports a finding that the
requiring the complainant to adduce evidence in a formal hearing
respondent is administratively liable for violating Canon 1, Rule
and despite the absence of corroborative proof. He insists that
1.01 and Canon 16 of the Code of Professional Responsibility, and
these defects rendered the complainant’s allegations as hearsay,
Section 3(c), Rule IV of A.M. No. 02-8-13-SC.
and the IBP’s report, recommendation or resolution null and void.
The Court’s Ruling
Although the respondent failed to have a face-to-face
We set aside the findings and recommendations of the IBP confrontation with the complainant when she failed to appear at
Commissioner and those of the IBP Board of Governors finding the the required mandatory conference on October 6, 2005,37 the
respondent liable for violating Canon 1, Rules 1.01 and Section 3(c), records reveal that the respondent fully participated during the
Rule IV of A.M. No. 02-8-13-SC.34 entire proceedings and submitted numerous pleadings, including
evidence, before the IBP. He was even allowed to file a motion for
We however hold the respondent liable for violating Canon 16
reconsideration supported by his submitted evidence, which
of the Code of Professional Responsibility for being remiss in his
motion the IBP considered and ruled upon in its Resolution No. XIX-
obligation to hold in trust his client’s properties. We likewise find
2010-545 dated October 8, 2010.38
him liable for violation of (1) Canon 15, Rule 15.03 for representing
conflicting interests without the written consent of the In Alliance of Democratic Free Labor Organization v.
represented parties, thus, violating the rule on conflict of interests; Laguesma,39 we held that due process, as applied to administrative
and (2) Canon 18, Rule 18.03 for neglecting a legal matter entrusted proceedings, is the opportunity to explain one’s side. In Samalio v.
to him. Court of Appeals,40 due process in an administrative context does
not require trial-type proceedings similar to those in courts of
a. Due process violation
justice. Where the opportunity to be heard, either through oral
The most basic tenet of due process is the right to be heard. arguments or through pleadings, is accorded, no denial of
Denial of due process means the total lack of opportunity to be procedural due process takes place. The requirements of due
heard or to have one’s day in court. As a rule, no denial of due process are satisfied where the parties are afforded a fair and
process takes place where a party has been given an opportunity reasonable opportunity to explain their side of the controversy at
to be heard and to present his case;35 what is prohibited is the hand.
absolute lack of opportunity to be heard.
Similarly, in A.Z. Arnaiz Realty, Inc. v. Office of the
The respondent claims that the IBP violated his right to due President,41 we held that "due process, as a constitutional precept,
process because he was not given the "amplest opportunity to does not always, and in all situations, require a trial-type
proceeding. Litigants may be heard through pleadings, written of Governors to resolve the case based on the pleadings and the
explanations, position papers, memoranda or oral arguments. The evidence on record. To quote his own submission:
standard of due process that must be met in administrative
1. On June 30, 2004, a complaint was filed in this case;
tribunals allows a certain degree of latitude[, provided that]
fairness is not ignored. It is, therefore, not legally objectionable for 2. On October 19, 2004, the respondent filed his comment
being violative of due process, for an administrative agency to with all its attachments denying all the allegations in the complaint;
resolve a case based solely on position papers, affidavits or
3. On June 23, 2005, the respondent filed his position paper.
documentary evidence submitted by the parties."42
On April 28, 2006, the respondent also filed his supplemental
In this case, the respondent’s failure to cross-examine the position paper. By contrast, up to this date, the
complainant is not a sufficient ground to support the claim that he complainant/petitioner has not filed her verified position paper
had not been afforded due process. The respondent was heard thus, waived her right to file the same;
through his pleadings, his submission of alleged controverting
4. There being no other genuine issues to be heard in this case
evidence, and his oral testimony during the October 6, 2005
as all the defenses and counter-arguments are supported by
mandatory conference. These pleadings, evidence and testimony
documentary evidence, it is most respectfully prayed that the
were received and considered by the IBP Commissioner when she
instant case be resolved on its merits or be ordered dismissed for
arrived at her findings and recommendation, and were the bases
lack of merit without further hearing;
for the IBP Board’s Resolution.
5. Further, considering that there is an on-going case in Branch
Moreover, "any seeming defect in the observance of due
52 of the Regional Trial Court of Palawan in Civil Case No. 2902 for
process is cured by the filing of a motion for reconsideration. A
Expropriation involving the same property, and such fact was
denia of due process cannot be successfully invoked by a party who
deliberately omitted by the complainant in her Verified Complaint
has had the opportunity to be heard on his motion for
as shown in the certification of non-forum shopping, the outright
reconsideration. Undoubtedly in this case, the requirement of the
dismissal of this case is warranted, hence, this motion; and
law was afforded to the respondent."43
6. This is meant to expedite the termination of this
We also note that the respondent, on a Motion to Resolve or
case.44 (underscore ours; italics supplied)
Decide the Case dated August 24, 2006, submitted his case to the
IBP for its resolution without any further hearings. The motion, Finally, we note Section 11, Rule 139-B of the Rules of Court
filed almost one year after the mandatory conference on October which provides that:
6, 2005, significantly did not contain any statement regarding a
No defect in a complaint, notice, answer, or in the proceeding
denial of due process. In effect, the respondent himself waived his
or the Investigator’s Report shall be considered as substantial
cross-examination of the complainant when he asked the IBP Board
unless the Board of Governors, upon considering the whole record,
finds that such defect has resulted or may result in a miscarriage of purity of the legal profession and the proper and honest
justice, in which event the administration of justice by purging the profession of members
who by their misconduct have proved themselves no longer worthy
Board shall take such remedial action as the circumstances
to be entrusted with the duties and responsibilities pertaining to
may warrant, including invalidation of the entire proceedings.
the office of an attorney. In such posture, there can thus be no
In this case, the IBP Commissioner’s findings were twice occasion to speak of a complainant or a prosecutor. [emphases
reviewed by the IBP Board of Governors – the first review resulted deleted]
in Resolution No. XVIII-2007-30245 dated December 14, 2007,
The complainant in disbarment cases is not a direct party to
affirming the IBP Commissioner’s findings, but modifying the
the case but a witness who brought the matter to the attention of
penalty; the second review resulted in Resolution No. XIX-2010-545
the Court.48 Flowing from its sui generis character, it is not
dated October 8, 2010,46denying the respondent’s motion for
mandatory to have a formal hearing in which the complainant must
reconsideration. In both instances, the IBP Board of Governors
adduce evidence.
found no defect or miscarriage of justice warranting a remedial
action or the invalidation of the proceedings. From all these, we find it clear that the complainant is not
indispensable to the disciplinary proceedings and her failure to
We emphasize that disciplinary proceedings against lawyers
appear for cross-examination or to provide corroborative evidence
are sui generis in that they are neither purely civil nor purely
of her allegations is of no merit. What is important is whether, upon
criminal; they involve investigations by the Court into the conduct
due investigation, the IBP
of one of its officers,47 not the trial of an action or a suit.
Board of Governors finds sufficient evidence of the
Disciplinary proceedings against lawyers are sui generis.
respondent’s misconduct to warrant the exercise of its disciplinary
Neither purely civil nor purely criminal, they do not involve a trial
powers.
of an action or a suit, but is rather an investigation by the Court into
the conduct of one of its officers. Not being intended to inflict b. Merits of the Complaint
punishment, it is in no sense a criminal prosecution. Accordingly,
"In administrative cases against lawyers, the quantum of proof
there is neither a plaintiff nor a prosecutor therein. It may be
required is preponderance of evidence which the complainant has
initiated by the Court motu proprio. Public interest is its primary
the burden to discharge."49 Preponderance of evidence means that
objective, and the real question for determination is whether or
the evidence adduced by one side is, as a whole, superior to or has
not the attorney is still a fit person to be allowed the privileges as
a greater weight than that of the other. It means evidence which is
such. Hence, in the exercise of its disciplinary powers, the Court
more convincing to the court as worthy of belief compared to the
merely calls upon a member of the Bar to account for his actuations
presented contrary evidence.
as an officer of the Court with the end in view of preserving the
Under Section 1, Rule 133 of the Rules of Court, in determining Laurentino L. Ylaya married to Fe A. Ylaya. The document does not
whether preponderance of evidence exists, the court may consider state that Reynold So was likewise a buyer together with
the following: (a) all the facts and circumstances of the case; (b) the Laurentino Ylaya, or that the former paid half of the purchase price.
witnesses’ manner of testifying, their intelligence, their means and
Also, it is hard for this Commission to believe that Reynold So,
opportunity of knowing the facts to which they are testifying, the
assisted by a lawyer at that and who allegedly paid half of the
nature of the facts to which they testify, and the probability or
purchase price, would not insist for the inclusion of his name in the
improbability of their testimony; (c) the witnesses’ interest or want
Deed of Sale as well as the Transfer Certificate of Title subsequently
of interest, and also their personal credibility so far as the same
issued.
may ultimately appear in the trial; and (d) the number of witnesses,
although it does not mean that preponderance is necessarily with The Memorandum of Agreement between the spouses Ylaya
the greater number.50 By law, a lawyer enjoys the legal and Reynold So produced by the respondent cannot overturn the
presumption that he is innocent of the charges against him until belief of this Commission considering that the Memorandum of
the contrary is proven, and that as an officer of the court, he is Agreement was executed more than a month AFTER the Deed of
presumed to have performed his duties in accordance with his Sale between Felix Arellano and the Ylayas was notarized. This is
oath.51 not to mention the fact that the complainant denied ever having
executed the Memorandum of Agreement. A close examination of
The IBP Commissioner set out her findings as follows:
the signatories in the said Memorandum of Agreement would
The undersigned, after a careful evaluation of the evidence reveal that indeed, the alleged signatures of the complainant and
presented by both parties, finds that the charges of the her husband are not the same with their signatures in other
complainant against the respondent are worthy of belief based on documents.
the following:
Assuming, for the sake of argument, that the Memorandum of
First, the allegation of the respondent that Reynold So was Agreement is valid, thereby making Laurentino Ylaya and co-owner
actually co-owner of spouses Ylanas (sic) in the properties subject Reynold So co-owners of the subject properties (Please see Annex
of the Deed of Sale between Felix Arellano and Spouses Ylanas (sic) "B" of respondent’s Comment), this Commission finds it hard to
is hard to believe despite the presentation of the Memorandum of believe Laurentino Ylaya would sell it to Reynold So for ₱200,000 x
Agreement. x x when his minimum expenses for the purchase thereof is already
₱225,000.00 and he was expecting to receive ₱7,000,000.00, more
It is elementary in Rules of Evidence that when the contents of
or less. That would mean that if Reynold So and the complainant
a written document are put in issue, the best evidence would be
were co-owners, the ₱7,000,000.00 would then be equally divided
the document itself. In the Deed of Sale between Felix Arellano and
among them at ₱3,500,000.00 each, far above the ₱200,000.00
Spouses Ylanas (sic), the buyer of the subject properties is only
selling price reflected in the pre-signed Deed of Sale.
As to the second issue, this Commission believes that the executed by Laurentino and Reynold acknowledging the existence
respondent committed serious error in notarizing the Deed of Sale of a co-ownership;53 to the complainant’s Ex Parte Motion to
and the Memorandum of Agreement between his uncle Reynold So Withdraw the Verified Complaint and To Dismiss the Case dated
and Laurentino Ylaya based on Rule IV, Section 3 (c) of A.M. No. 02- November 14, 2006 where she stated that the parties have entered
8-13-SC which provides as follows: into a compromise agreement in Civil Case No. 2902, and that the
disbarment complaint arose from a misunderstanding,
"Sec. 3. Disqualifications – a notary public is disqualified from
miscommunication and improper appreciation of facts;54to her
performing a notarial act if he:
Affidavit dated February 27, 200855 affirming and confirming the
(a) x x x. existence, genuineness and due execution of the Deed of Absolute
Sale notarized on March 6, 2000;56 and to the Deed of Absolute
(b) x x x.
Sale notarized in 2001.57
(c) is a spouse, common-law partner, ancestor, descendant, or
In all, the respondent claims that these cited pieces of
relative by affinity or consanguinity of the principal within the
evidence prove that this administrative complaint against him is
fourth civil degree."
fabricated, false and untrue. He also points to Atty. Robert Peneyra,
The defense therefore of the respondent that he did not the complainant’s counsel in this administrative case, as the hand
violate the aforementioned Rule becausehis uncle Reynold So, the behind the complaint.58 According to the respondent, Atty.
buyer is not the principal in the Subject Deed of Sale but the seller Peneyra harbors ill-will against him and his family after his father
Laurentino Ylaya (please see page 3 of the respondent’s filed several administrative cases against Atty. Peneyra, one of
Supplemental Position Paper) is misplaced. Clearly, both the buyer which resulted in the imposition of a warning and a reprimand on
and the seller in the instant case are considered principals in the Atty. Peneyra.59
contract entered into.
Reynold, in his Affidavit dated October 11, 2004, confirms that
Furthermore, if we are to consider the argument of the there was a co-ownership between him and Laurentino; that
respondent that his uncle was not a principal so as to apply the Laurentino decided to sell his half of the property to Reynold
afore-quoted provision of the Rules, the respondent still violated because he (Laurentino) had been sickly and in dire need of money
the Rules when he notarized the subject Memorandum of to pay for his medical bills; that Laurentino agreed to the price of
Agreement between Laurentino Ylaya and his uncle Reynold So. ₱200,000.00 as this was almost the same value of his investment
Clearly, both complainant and Reynold So were principal parties in when he and Reynold jointly acquired the property; and that the
the said Memorandum of Agreement.52 sale to Reynold was with the agreement and consent of the
complainant who voluntarily signed the Deed of Sale.60
The respondent argues that the IBP Commissioner’s findings
are contrary to the presented evidence, specifically to the MOA
After examining the whole record of the case, we agree with the spouses Ylaya’s signatures in the MOA and what documents
the respondent and find the evidence insufficient to prove the were used in comparison.
charge that he violated Canon 1, Rule 1.01 of the Code of
Apart from her allegations, the complainant’s pieces of
Professional Responsibility and Section 3(c), Rule IV of A.M. No. 02-
evidence consist of TCT Nos. 162632 and 162633;63 her Motion for
8-13-SC. Specifically, (1) the evidence against the respondent fails
Leave to Intervene in Civil Case No. 2902 dated May 17, 2000;64 the
to show the alleged fraudulent and deceitful acts he has taken to
RTC order in Civil Case No. 2902 dated November 6, 2000 fixing the
mislead the complainant and her husband into signing a
price of just compensation;65 the Deed of Absolute Sale dated June
"preparatory deed of sale" and the conversion into a Deed of
4, 2001;66the spouses Ylaya’s Verified Manifestation dated
Absolute Sale dated June 4, 2001 in favor of Reynold; and (2) no
September 2, 2002, filed with the RTC in Civil Case No. 2902,
prohibition exists against the notarization of a document in which
assailing the Motion to Deposit Just Compensation filed by the
any of the parties interested is the notary’s relative within the 4th
respondent on behalf of Reynold and manifesting the sale between
civil degree, by affinity or consanguinity, at that time the
Laurentino and Reynold;67 the Provincial Prosecutor’s Subpoena to
respondent notarized the documents.
the complainant in connection with the respondent’s complaint for
In her Report and Recommendation,61 the IBP Commissioner libel;68 the respondent’s complaint for libel against the
concluded that the respondent is liable for deceit and fraud complainant dated August 27, 2003;69 the complainant’s Counter
because he failed to prove the existence of a co-ownership Affidavit dated March 26, 2004 against the charge of libel;70 and
between Laurentino and Reynold; in her opinion, the signatures of the respondent’s letter to the Provincial Attorney of Palawan dated
the complainant and of her husband on the MOA "are not the same April 5, 2004, requesting for "official information regarding the
with their signatures in other documents."62 actual attendance of Atty. ROBERT Y. PENEYRA" at an MCLE
seminar.71
We do not agree with this finding. While the facts of this case
may raise some questions regarding the respondent’s legal We do not see these documentary pieces of evidence as proof
practice, we nevertheless found nothing constituting clear of specific acts constituting deceit or fraud on the respondent’s
evidence of the respondent’s specific acts of fraud and deceit. His part. The documents by themselves are neutral and, at the most,
failure to prove the existence of a co-ownership does not lead us show the breakdown of the attorney-client relationship between
to the conclusion that the MOA and the Deed of Absolute Sale the respondent and the complainant. It is one thing to allege deceit
dated June 4, 2001 are spurious and that the respondent was and misconduct, and it is another to demonstrate by evidence the
responsible for creating these spurious documents. We are further specific acts constituting these allegations.72
persuaded, after noting that in disregarding the MOA, the IBP
We reiterate that in disbarment proceedings, the burden of
Commissioner failed to specify what differences she observed in
proof is on the complainant; the Court exercises its disciplinary
power only if the complainant establishes her case by clear,
convincing, and satisfactory evidence.73Preponderance of evidence the complainant; under Canon 16 for being remiss in his obligation
means that the evidence adduced by one side is, as a whole, to hold in trust his client’s properties; and under Canon 18, Rule
superior to or has a greater weight than that of the other party. 18.03 for neglecting a legal matter entrusted to him.
When the pieces of evidence of the parties are evenly balanced or
Canon 15, Rule 15.03 states:
when doubt exists on the preponderance of evidence, the
equipoise rule dictates that the decision be against the party A lawyer shall not represent conflicting interests except by
carrying the burden of proof.74 written consent of all concerned given after a full disclosure of the
facts. [emphasis ours]
In this case, we find that the complainant’s evidence and the
records of the case do not show the respondent’s deliberate The relationship between a lawyer and his client should ideally
fraudulent and deceitful acts. In the absence of such proof, the be imbued with the highest level of trust and confidence. Necessity
complaint for fraud and deceit under Canon 1, Rule 1.01 of the and public interest require that this be so. Part of the lawyer’s duty
Code of Professional Responsibility must perforce be dismissed. to his client is to avoid representing conflicting interests. He is duty
bound to decline professional employment, no matter how
We note that the respondent has not squarely addressed the
attractive the fee offered may be, if its acceptance involves a
issue of his relationship with Reynold, whom the complainant
violation of the proscription against conflict of interest, or any of
alleges to be the respondent’s uncle because Reynold is married to
the rules of professional conduct. Thus, a lawyer may not accept a
the respondent’s maternal aunt.75However, this is of no moment
retainer from a defendant after he has given professional advice to
as the respondent cannot be held liable for violating Section 3(c),
the plaintiff concerning his claim; nor can he accept employment
Rule IV of A.M. No. 02-8-13-SC because the Deed of Absolute Sale
from another in a matter adversely affecting any interest of his
dated June 4, 200176 and the MOA dated April 19, 200077 were
former client. It is his duty to decline employment in any of these
notarized by the respondent prior to the effectivity of A.M. No. 02-
and similar circumstances in view of the rule prohibiting
8-13-SC on July 6, 2004. The notarial law in force in the years 2000
representation of conflicting interests.78
- 2001 was Chapter 11 of Act No. 2711 (the Revised Administrative
Code of 1917) which did not contain the present prohibition against The proscription against representation of conflicting interest
notarizing documents where the parties are related to the notary applies "even if the lawyer would not be called upon to contend for
public within the 4th civil degree, by affinity or consanguinity. Thus, one client that which the lawyer has to oppose for the other, or
we must likewise dismiss the charge for violation of A.M. No. 02-8- that there would be no occasion to use the confidential information
13-SC. acquired from one to the disadvantage of the other as the two
actions are wholly unrelated."79 The sole exception is provided in
c. Liability under Canons 15, 16 and 18 We find the respondent
Canon 15, Rule 15.03 of the Code of Professional Responsibility – if
liable under Canon 15, Rule 15.03 for representing conflicting
there is a written consent from all the parties after full disclosure.
interests without the written consent of all concerned, particularly
Based on the records, we find substantial evidence to hold the and it does not appear that the respondent was aware or present
respondent liable for violating Canon 15, Rule 15.03 of the Code of when the complainant borrowed the TCTs,86 we nevertheless hold
Professional Responsibility. The facts of this case show that the the respondent liable, as the TCTs were entrusted to his care and
respondent retained clients who had close dealings with each custody; he failed to exercise due diligence in caring for his client’s
other. The respondent admits to acting as legal counsel for Cirilo properties that were in his custody.
Arellano, the spouses Ylaya and Reynold at one point during the
We likewise find the respondent liable for violating Canon 18,
proceedings in Civil Case No. 2902.80 Subsequently, he represented
Rule 18.03 for neglecting a legal matter entrusted to him. Despite
only Reynold in the same proceedings,81 asserting Reynold’s
the respondent’s admission that he represented the complainant
ownership over the property against all other claims, including that
and her late husband in Civil Case No. 2902 and that he purportedly
of the spouses Ylaya.82
filed a Motion for Leave to Intervene in their behalf, the records
We find no record of any written consent from any of the show that he never filed such a motion for the spouses Ylaya. The
parties involved and we cannot give the respondent the benefit of complainant herself states that she and her late husband were
the doubt in this regard. We find it clear from the facts of this case forced to file the Motion for Leave to Intervene on their own
that the respondent retained Reynold as his client and actively behalf. The records of the case, which include the Motion for Leave
opposed the interests of his former client, the complainant. He to Intervene filed by the spouses Ylaya, support this conclusion.87
thus violated Canon 15, Rule 15.03 of the Code of Professional
Canon 18, Rule 18.03 requires that a lawyer "shall not neglect
Responsibility.
a legal matter entrusted to him, and his negligence in connection
We affirm the IBP Commissioner’s finding that the respondent [therewith] shall render him liable." What amounts to carelessness
violated Canon 16. The respondent admits to losing certificates of or negligence in a lawyer’s discharge of his duty to his client is
land titles that were entrusted to his care by Reynold.83 According incapable of an exact formulation, but the Court has consistently
to the respondent, the complainant "maliciously retained" the TCTs held that the mere failure of a lawyer to perform the obligations
over the properties sold by Laurentino to Reynold after she due his client is per se a violation.88
borrowed them from his office.84 Reynold confirms that the TCTs
In Canoy v. Ortiz,89 we held that a lawyer’s failure to file a
were taken by the complainant from the respondent’s law office.85
position paper was per se a violation of Rule 18.03 of the Code of
The respondent is reminded that his duty under Canon 16 is to Professional Responsibility. Similar to Canoy, the respondent
"hold in trust all moneys and properties of his client that may come clearly failed in this case in his duty to his client when, without any
into his possession." Allowing a party to take the original TCTs of explanation, he failed to file the Motion for Leave to Intervene on
properties owned by another – an act that could result in damage behalf of the spouses Ylaya. Under the circumstances, we find that
– should merit a finding of legal malpractice. While we note that it there was want of diligence; without sufficient justification, this is
was his legal staff who allowed the complainant to borrow the TCTs
sufficient to hold the respondent liable for violating Canon 18, Rule 139-B of the Rules of Court states that, "No investigation shall be
18.03 of the Code of Professional Responsibility. interrupted or terminated by reason of the desistance, settlement,
compromise, restitution, withdrawal of charges, or failure of the
d. The Complainant’s Ex Parte Motion to Withdraw the
complainant to prosecute the same."
Verified Complaint and to Dismiss the Case and her Affidavit
In Angalan v. Delante,97 despite the Affidavit of Desistance, we
We are aware of the complainant’s Ex Parte Motion to
disbarred the respondent therein for taking advantage of his clients
Withdraw the Verified Complaint and To Dismiss the Case dated
and for transferring the title of their property to his name. In
November 14, 200690 and her Affidavit91 affirming and confirming
Bautista v. Bernabe,98 we revoked the lawyer’s notarial
the existence, genuineness and due execution of the Deed of
commission, disqualified him from reappointment as a notary
Absolute Sale notarized on March 6, 2000.92 The complainant
public for two years, and suspended him from the practice of law
explains that the parties have entered into a compromise
for one year for notarizing a document without requiring the affiant
agreement in Civil Case No. 2902, and that this disbarment
to personally appear before him. In this cited case, we said:
complaint was filed because of a "misunderstanding,
miscommunication and improper appreciation of facts";93 she Complainant’s desistance or withdrawal of the complaint does
erroneously accused the respondent of ill motives and bad not exonerate respondent or put an end to the administrative
intentions, but after being enlightened, she is convinced that he proceedings. A case of suspension or disbarment may proceed
has no personal or pecuniary interests over the properties in Civil regardless of interest or lack of interest of the complainant. What
Case No. 2902; that such misunderstanding was due to her matters is whether, on the basis of the facts borne out by the
unfamiliarity with the transactions of her late husband during his record, the charge of deceit and grossly immoral conduct has been
lifetime.94 The complainant now pleads for the respondent’s proven. This rule is premised on the nature of disciplinary
forgiveness, stating that he has been her and her late husband’s proceedings. A proceeding for suspension or disbarment is not a
lawyer for over a decade and affirms her trust and confidence in civil action where the complainant is a plaintiff and the respondent
him.95 We take note that under their Compromise Agreement lawyer is a defendant. Disciplinary proceedings involve no private
dated November 14, 2006 for the expropriation case,96 the interest and afford no redress for private grievance. They are
complainant and Reynold equally share the just compensation, undertaken and prosecuted solely for the public welfare. They are
which have since increased to ₱10,000,000.00. undertaken for the purpose of preserving courts of justice from the
official ministration of persons unfit to practice in them. The
While the submitted Ex Parte Motion to Withdraw the Verified
attorney is called to answer to the court for his conduct as an
Complaint and to Dismiss the Case and the Affidavit appear to
officer of the court. The complainant or the person who called the
exonerate the respondent, complete exoneration is not the
attention of the court to the attorney’s alleged misconduct is in no
necessary legal effect as the submitted motion and affidavit are
sense a party, and has generally no interest in the outcome except
immaterial for purposes of the present proceedings. Section 5, Rule
as all good citizens may have in the proper administration of The Supreme Court exercises exclusive jurisdiction to regulate
justice.99 the practice of law.102 It exercises such disciplinary functions
through the IBP, but it does not relinquish its duty to form its own
In sum, in administrative proceedings against lawyers, the
judgment. Disbarment proceedings are exercised under the sole
complainant’s desistance or withdrawal does not terminate the
jurisdiction of the Supreme Court, and the IBP’s recommendations
proceedings. This is particularly true in the present case where
imposing the penalty of suspension from the practice of law or
pecuniary consideration has been given to the complainant as a
disbarment are always subject to this Court’s review and approval.
consideration for her desistance. We note in this regard that she
would receive ₱5,000,000.00, or half of the just compensation The Penalty
under the Compromise Agreement,100 and thus agreed to
In Solidon v. Macalalad,103 we imposed the penalty of
withdraw all charges against the respondent.101 From this
suspension of six ( 6) months from the practice of law on the
perspective, we consider the complainant’s desistance to be
respondent therein for his violation of Canon 18, Rule 18.03 and
suspect; it is not grounded on the fact that the respondent did not
Canon 16, Rule 16.01 of the Code of Professional Responsibility. In
commit any actual misconduct; rather, because of the
Josefina M. Aniñon v. Atty. Clemencio Sabitsana, Jr.,104 we
consideration, the complainant is now amenable to the position of
suspended the respondent therein from the practice of law for one
the respondent and/or Reynold.
(1) year, for violating Canon 15, Rule 15.03 of the Code of
e. Procedural aspect Professional Responsibility. Under the circumstances, we find a one
(1) year suspension to be a sufficient and appropriate sanction
We remind all parties that resolutions from the IBP Board of
against the respondent.
Governors are merely recommendatory and do not attain finality
without a final action from this Court. Section 12, Rule 139-B is WHEREFORE, premises considered, we set aside Resolution
clear on this point that: No. XVIII-.2007-302 dated December 14, 2007 and Resolution No.
XIX-2010-545 dated October 8, 2010 of the IBP Board of Governors,
Section 12. Review and decision by the Board of Governors. –
and find respondent Atty. Glenn Carlos Gacott GUILTY of violating
xxxx Rule 15.03 of Canon 15, Canon 16, and Rule 18.03 of Canon 18 of
the Code of Professional Responsibility. As a penalty, he is
(b) If the Board, by the vote of a majority of its total
SUSPENDED from the practice of law for one (1) year, with a
membership, determines that the respondent should be
WARNING that a repetition of the same or similar act will be dealt
suspended from the practice of law or disbarred, it shall issue a
with more severely.
resolution setting forth its findings and recommendations which,
together with the whole record of the case, shall forthwith be SO ORDERED.
transmitted to the Supreme Court for final action.1âwphi1
Police Chief Inspector George L. Almaden (P C/Insp. Almaden)
of the Philippine National Police (PNP) Regional Office 8 and Staff
Judge Advocate Captain Allan Tiu (Army Captain Tiu) of the 8th
Infantry Division of the Philippine Army sent 12 undated letters to
the Provincial Prosecutor of Leyte through Assistant Provincial
Prosecutor Rosulo U. Vivero (Prosecutor Vivero).3 The letters
requested appropriate legal action on 12 complaint-affidavits
attached therewith accusing 71 named members of the Communist
Party of the Philippines/New People’s Army/National Democratic
Front of the Philippines (CPP/NPA/NDFP) of murder, including
petitioners herein along with several other unnamed members.
Thus, when petitioner Ocampo received the Resolution of It is enough that the judge personally evaluates the
Prosecutor Vivero on 12 March 2007,108 the former had until 27 prosecutor’s report and supporting documents showing the
March 2007 within which to file either a motion for reconsideration existence of probable cause for the indictment and, on the basis
before the latter or an appeal before the Secretary of Justice. thereof, issue a warrant of arrest; or if, on the basis of his
Instead, petitioner Ocampo chose to file the instant petition for evaluation, he finds no probable cause, to disregard the
certiorari directly before this Court on 16 March 2007. prosecutor's resolution and require the submission of additional
affidavits of witnesses to aid him in determining its existence.113
Petitioners Echanis and Baylosis claim that, had Judge Abando warrants for their arrest. As stated above, the trial judge’s
painstakingly examined the records submitted by Prosecutor appreciation of the evidence and conclusion of facts based thereon
Vivero, the judge would have inevitably dismissed the charge are not interfered with in the absence of grave abuse of discretion.
against them.114 Additionally, petitioner Ocampo alleges that Judge Again, "he sufficiently complies with the requirement of personal
Abando did not point out facts and evidence in the record that determination if he reviews the [I]nformation and the documents
were used as bases for his finding of probable cause to issue a attached thereto, and on the basis thereof forms a belief that the
warrant of arrest.115 accused is probably guilty of the crime with which he is being
charged."118
The determination of probable cause for the issuance of
warrants of arrest against petitioners is addressed to the sound Judge Abando’s review of the Information and the supporting
discretion of Judge Abando as the trial judge.116 Further elucidating documents is shown by the following portion of the judge’s 6
on the wide latitude given to trial judges in the issuance of warrants March 2007 Order:
of arrest, this Court stated in Sarigumba v. Sandiganbayan117 as
follows: On the evaluation of the Resolution and its Information as
submitted and filed by the Provincial Prosecution of Leyte Province
x x x. The trial court's exercise of its judicial discretion should supported by the following documents: Affidavits of Complainants,
not, as a general rule, be interfered with in the absence of grave Sworn Statements of Witnesses and other pertinent documents
abuse of discretion. Indeed, certiorari will not lie to cure errors in issued by the Regional Crime Laboratory Office, PNP, Region VIII
the trial court's appreciation of the evidence of the parties, the and Camp Crame, Quezon City, pictures of the grave site and
conclusion of facts it reached based on the said findings, as well as skeletal remains, this court has the findings [sic] of probable cause
the conclusions of law. x x x. in the commission by all mentioned accused of the crime
charged.119
Whether or not there is probable cause for the issuance of
warrants for the arrest of the accused is a question of fact based At bottom, issues involving the finding of probable cause for
on the allegations in the Informations, the Resolution of the an indictment and issuance of a warrant of arrest, as petitioners
Investigating Prosecutor, including other documents and/or are doubtless aware, are primarily questions of fact that are
evidence appended to the Information. normally not within the purview of a petition for certiorari,120 such
as the petitions filed in the instant consolidated cases.
Here, the allegations of petitioners point to factual matters
indicated in the affidavits of the complainants and witnesses as The political offense doctrine is not a
bases for the contention that there was no probable cause for ground to dismiss the charge against
petitioners’ indictment for multiple murder or for the issuance of petitioners prior to a determination
by the trial court that the murders Petitioners aver that the records show that the alleged
were committed in furtherance of murders were committed in furtherance of the CPP/NPA/NDFP
rebellion. rebellion, and that the political motivation behind the alleged
murders can be clearly seen from the charge against the alleged
Under the political offense doctrine, "common crimes, top leaders of the CPP/NPA/NDFP as co-conspirators.
perpetrated in furtherance of a political offense, are divested of
their character as "common" offenses and assume the political We had already ruled that the burden of demonstrating
complexion of the main crime of which they are mere ingredients, political motivation must be discharged by the defense, since
and, consequently, cannot be punished separately from the motive is a state of mind which only the accused knows.125 The
principal offense, or complexed with the same, to justify the proof showing political motivation is adduced during trial where
imposition of a graver penalty."121 the accused is assured an opportunity to present evidence
supporting his defense. It is not for this Court to determine this
Any ordinary act assumes a different nature by being absorbed factual matter in the instant petitions.
in the crime of rebellion.122 Thus, when a killing is committed in
furtherance of rebellion, the killing is not homicide or murder. As held in the case of Office of the Provincial Prosecutor of
Rather, the killing assumes the political complexion of rebellion as Zamboanga Del Norte v. CA,126 if during trial, petitioners are able
its mere ingredient and must be prosecuted and punished as to show that the alleged murders were indeed committed in
rebellion alone. furtherance of rebellion, Section 14, Rule 110 of the Rules of Court
provides the remedy, to wit:
However, this is not to say that public prosecutors are obliged
to consistently charge respondents with simple rebellion instead of SECTION 14. Amendment or substitution. — A complaint or
common crimes. No one disputes the well-entrenched principle in information may be amended, in form or in substance, without
criminal procedure that the institution of criminal charges, leave of court, at any time before the accused enters his plea. After
including whom and what to charge, is addressed to the sound the plea and during the trial, a formal amendment may only be
discretion of the public prosecutor.123 made with leave of court and when it can be done without causing
prejudice to the rights of the accused.
But when the political offense doctrine is asserted as a defense
in the trial court, it becomes crucial for the court to determine However, any amendment before plea, which downgrades the
whether the act of killing was done in furtherance of a political end, nature of the offense charged in or excludes any accused from the
and for the political motive of the act to be conclusively complaint or information, can be made only upon motion by the
demonstrated.124 prosecutor, with notice to the offended party and with leave of
court. The court shall state its reasons in resolving the motion and
copies of its order shall be furnished all parties, especially the Based on the above provision, double jeopardy only applies
offended party. (n) when: (1) a first jeopardy attached; (2) it has been validly
terminated; and (3) a second jeopardy is for the same offense as in
If it appears at any time before judgment that a mistake has the first.127
been made in charging the proper offense, the court shall dismiss
the original complaint or information upon the filing of a new one A first jeopardy attaches only after the accused has been
charging the proper offense in accordance with Section 19, Rule acquitted or convicted, or the case has been dismissed or
119, provided the accused shall not be placed in double jeopardy. otherwise terminated without his express consent, by a competent
The court may require the witnesses to give bail for their court in a valid indictment for which the accused has entered a
appearance at the trial. (Emphasis supplied) valid plea during arraignment.128
Thus, if it is shown that the proper charge against petitioners To recall, on 12 May 2006, an Information for the crime of
should have been simple rebellion, the trial court shall dismiss the rebellion, as defined and penalized under Article 134 in relation to
murder charges upon the filing of the Information for simple Article 135 of the Revised Penal Code, docketed as Criminal Case
rebellion, as long as petitioners would not be placed in double No. 06-944 was filed before the RTC Makati against petitioners and
jeopardy. several others.129
Section 7, Rule 117 of the Rules of Court, states: However, petitioners were never arraigned in Criminal Case
No. 06-944.1awp++i1 Even before the indictment for rebellion was
SEC. 7. Former conviction or acquittal; double jeopardy. — filed before the RTC Makati, petitioners Ocampo, Echanis and
When an accused has been convicted or acquitted, or the case Ladlad had already filed a petition before this Court to seek the
against him dismissed or otherwise terminated without his express nullification of the Orders of the DOJ denying their motion for the
consent by a court of competent jurisdiction, upon a valid inhibition of the members of the prosecution panel due to lack of
complaint or information or other formal charge sufficient in form impartiality and independence.130 When the indictment was filed,
and substance to sustain a conviction and after the accused had petitioners Ocampo, Echanis and Ladlad filed supplemental
pleaded to the charge, the conviction or acquittal of the accused or petitions to enjoin the prosecution of Criminal Case No. 06-
the dismissal of the case shall be a bar to another prosecution for 944.131We eventually ordered the dismissal of the rebellion case. It
the offense charged, or for any attempt to commit the same or is clear then that a first jeopardy never had a chance to attach.
frustration thereof, or for any offense which necessarily includes or
is necessarily included in the offense charged in the former Petitioner Ocampo shall remain on provisional liberty under
complaint or information. the ₱100,000 cash bond posted before the Office of the Clerk of
Court. He shall remain on provisional liberty until the termination
of the proceedings before the RTC Manila.1âwphi1
SO ORDERED.
Gutierrez (Gutierrez) liable for the P10,105,687.25 that was lost
through robbery.
Petitioner's arguments and the issues she raised are Presidential Decree No. 1445 makes cashiers liable for the value of
sufficiently expressed in her affidavit submitted to the Commission the money or property in their custody in case they were lost
on Audit, her motion for reconsideration of the Commission on because of negligence or unlawful deposit, use, or application.
Audit Director's decision, and her petition and memorandum Thus:chanroblesvirtuallawlibrary
submitted to this court. Even though petitioner was not able to file
Section 105. Measure of liability of accountable officers. the vault, but in boxes, for practical reasons. She was not motivated
by malice when she kept the money that was in her possession in
(1) Every officer accountable for government property shall be the boxes.
liable for its money value in case of improper or unauthorized use
or misapplication thereof, by himself or any person for whose acts Without going to the issue of the existence of negligence, the
he may be responsible. We shall likewise be liable for all losses, Commission on Audit may already issue a withholding order for
damages, or deterioration occasioned by negligence in the keeping petitioner's salaries and emoluments because of this. Petitioner's
or use of the property, whether or not it be at the time in his actual act of keeping the money in boxes instead of in the vault can be
custody. subsumed under "unlawful deposit" that may cause a cashier to
incur liability in case the unlawfully deposited money was lost.
(2) Every officer accountable for government funds shall be liable
for all losses resulting from the unlawful deposit, use, or application A similar case, Leano v. Domingo,84 showed that the safety of
thereof and for all losses attributable to negligence in the keeping money cannot be ensured when it is deposited in enclosures other
of the funds. than the safety vault. Leano also involves a government cashier
whose money accountability was lost through robbery. As in this
Imposing liability on cashiers for lost money or property in case, the cashier did not keep her money accountabilities in the
their custody means that the value of the money or property vault. Requesting this court to review the Commission on Audit's
becomes their debt. denial of her request for accountability, Leano argued that she had
no other choice but to use a steel cabinet to keep her money
The Commission on Audit has the power to withhold payment of accountabilities because the former cashier did not entrust to her
money due to persons indebted to the government. Section 37 of the safety vault's combination. This court upheld the Commission
Presidential Decree No. 1445 provides:chanroblesvirtuallawlibrary on Audit's decision to deny Leano's request for relief from
accountabilities and found her to be negligent in handling her
Section 37. Retention of money for satisfaction of indebtedness money accountabilities:chanroblesvirtuallawlibrary
to government. When any person is indebted to any government
agency, the Commission may direct the proper officer to withhold [I]t is evident that petitioner fell short of the demands inherent
the payment of any money due such person or his estate to be in her position. As aptly argued by the Solicitor General, an exercise
applied in satisfaction of the indebtedness. of proper diligence expected of her position would have compelled
petitioner to request an immediate change of the combination of
Petitioner does not deny that the money for which she was the safe. However, the record is bare of any showing that petitioner
accountable as a cashier was lost through robbery. She also did not had, at least, exerted any effort to have the combination changed,
deny that she kept the greater portion of the amount lost, not in
content with the fact that, according to her, the former cashier also
used the steel cabinet as depository of the funds. Petitioner is negligent because she failed to use "that reasonable
care and caution which an ordinarily prudent person would have
In addition, it was found that the use of the steel cabinet was not a used in the same situation."89 A cashier in her position would have
wise and prudent decision. The steel cabinet, even when locked, at used the vault to keep her collections. Petitioner failed to do this.
times could be pulled open, thus it can be surmised that even Her negligence is made more pronounced by the fact that the
without the use of a key, the robbery could be committed once the collections kept in the vault were not taken by the robbers.
culprits succeed in entering the room (Progress Report of the Police
dated February 28, 1985). Moreover, the original key of the steel Petitioner insists that the space in the vault was not enough to
cabinet was left inside a small wooden box placed near the steel accommodate all her collections. However, she admitted that she
cabinet; it is therefore highly possible that the said steel cabinet had been receiving relatively large collections in the past three (3)
was opened with the use of its original key (Police Alarm months prior to the robbery. She should have requested an
Report).85cralawlawlibrary additional vault wherein she could safely keep her collections. She
could also have set aside time to deposit her collections for the day
Hence, keeping National Food Authority collections outside considering the. amount of cash she had been collecting, in order
the vault constituted negligence on the part of petitioner. to prevent its accumulation. This could have ensured that the
vault's space would be sufficient to keep any remaining collection
The test of negligence is stated in Picart v. Smith, after the deposit. This could also have prevented her collections
Jr.:86ChanRoblesVirtualawlibrary from accumulating to an amount that rendered any loss through
untoward incidents such as robbery significant. Petitioner failed to
The test by which to determine the existence of negligence in even allege that she exerted effort to obtain additional vaults or to
a particular case may be stated as follows: Did the defendant in set aside time to deposit her collections to the bank.
doing the alleged negligent act use that reasonable care and
caution which an ordinarily prudent person would have used in the For these reasons, petitioner cannot be relieved from liability. A
same situation? If not, then he is guilty of person who is negligent in keeping the funds cannot be relieved
87
negligence. cralawlawlibrary from liability.90
"The existence of negligence in a given case is not determined WHEREFORE, the petition is DENIED.
by reference to the personal judgment of the actor in the situation
before him. The Law considers what would be reckless, SO ORDERED.
blameworthy, or negligent in the man of ordinary intelligence and
prudence and determines liability by that."88
Reports pursuant to Section 173 of the Securities Regulation Code
(SRC), Republic Act No. 8799.
On October 16, 2003, URPHI filed with the SEC a
Manifestation/Urgent Motion to Set Aside Revocation Order and
Reinstate Registration after complying with its reportorial
requirements.
On October 24, 2003, the SEC granted URPHI's motion to lift
the revocation order, considering the current economic situation,
URPHI's belated filing of the required annual and quarterly reports,
and its payment of the reduced fine of ₱82,000.00.
Thereafter, URPHI failed again to comply with the same
reportorial requirements.
In a Notice of Hearing dated June 25, 2004, the SEC directed
URPHI to show cause why its Registration of Securities and
Certificate of Permit to Sell Securities to the Public should not be
G.R. No. 181381 July 20, 2015
suspended for failure to submit the said requirements. Pertinent
SECURITIES and EXCHANGE COMMISSION, Petitioner, portion of the notice reads: Records show that the corporation has
vs. failed to submit the following reports in violation of SRC Rule 17.1:
UNIVERSAL RIGHTFIELD PROPERTY HOLDINGS, INC., Respondent.
(1) 2003 Annual Report (SEC Form 17-A); and
Respondent Universal Rightfield Property Holdings, Inc.
(2) 2004 1st Quarter Report (SEC Form 17-Q)
(URPHI) is a corporation duly registered and existing under the
Philippine Laws, and is engaged in the business of providing The company has been allowed a non-extendible period until
residential and leisure-related needs and wants of the middle and May 31, 2004 within which to file its 2003 Annual Report but to
upper middle-income market. date the said report has not been submitted.
On May 29, 2003, petitioner Securities and Exchange In view of the foregoing and considering the inadequate
Commission (SEC), through its Corporate Finance Department, information available to the public, the corporation is hereby
issued an Order revoking URPHI's Registration of Securities and directed to show cause why the Registration of its Securities and
Permit to Sell Securities to the Public for its failure to timely file its Certificate of Permit to Sell Securities should not be suspended, in
Year 2001 Annual Report and Year 2002 1st, 2nd and 3rd Quarterly a hearing scheduled before Atty. Francia A. Tiuseco-Manlapaz on
July 6, 2004, at the Securities Registration Division, Corporation In a letter dated September 28, 2004, URPHI requested for a
Finance Department of the Commission, 6th Floor, SEC Building, final extension, or until November 15, 2004, within which to submit
EDA, Greenhills, Mandaluyong, Metro Manila at 10:00 o'clock in its reportorial requirements. Pertinent portions of the letter read:
the morning. Failure of the company to appear, through its
We refer to your Order dated 27 July 2004, wherein the
representative, at the said hearing shall be deemed a waiver on its
Commission resolved to SUSPEND the Corporation's Registration of
part to be heard with regard to the suspension of its Certificate of
Securities and Permit to Sell Securities to the Public due to non-
Permit to Sell Securities to the Public.
filing of the Corporation's reportorial requirements under SRC Rule
SO ORDERED.4 17 effective for sixty (60) days or until the reporting requirements
are complied [with]; otherwise, the Commission shall proceed with
During the scheduled hearing on July 6, 2004, URPHI, through
the revocation of the Corporation's registration [of] securities. To
its Chief Accountant, Rhodora Lahaylahay, informed the SEC why it
date, the Corporation has not filed with the Commission its 2003
failed to submit the reportorial requirements, viz.: (1) it was
Annual Report in SEC Form 17-A and 2004 1st and 2°d Quarterly
constrained to reduce its accounting staff due to cost-cutting
reports in SEC Form 17-Q. The non-submission of these reportorial
measures; thus, some of the audit requirements were not
requirements, as we have already disclosed to you per our letter
completed within the original timetable; and (2) its audited
dated 13 September 2004, was due to the non-finalization of the
financial statements for the period ending December 31, 2003
Corporation's audited financial statement for the fiscal year ended
could not be finalized by reason of the delay in the completion of
December 31, 2003.
some of its audit requirements.
During our meeting with our external auditor, SGV & Co. last 8
In an Order dated July 27, 2004, the SEC suspended URPHI's
September 2004, SGV agreed to facilitate the finalization of our
Registration of Securities and Permit to Sell Securities to the Public
financial statements within two (2) weeks. Notwithstanding the
for failure to submit its reportorial requirements despite the lapse
same, the Corporation foresees the impossibility of complying with
of the extension period, and due to lack of sufficient justification
its submission until the end of the month, as the partners of SGV
for its inability to comply with the said requirements.
are still reviewing the final draft of the financial statements. The
On August 23, 2004, the SEC, through its Corporation Finance Corporation intends to comply with its reportorial requirements.
Department, informed URPHI that it failed to submit its 2004 2nd However, due to the foregoing circumstances, the finalization of
Quarter Report (SEC Form 17-Q) in violation of the Amended our financial statement has again been delayed. In this regard, may
Implementing Rules and Regulations of the SRC Rule 17 we request for the last time until November 15, 2004 within which
.1(1)(A)(ii).5 It also directed URPHI to file the said report, and to to submit said reportorial requirements.6
show cause why it should not be held liable for violation of the said
On December 1, 2004, URPHI filed with the SEC its 2003 Annual
rule.
Report.
In an Order of Revocation7 dated December 8, 2004, the SEC registration of securities each requires separate notices and
revoked URPHI's Registration of Securities and Permit to Sell hearings. It also held that the Ruling11 in Globe Telecom, Inc. v. The
Securities to the Public for its failure to submit its reportorial National Telecommunications Commission12 (Globe Telecom, Inc.)
requirements within the final extension period. applies squarely to this case since the Section 13.1 of the SRC itself
provides that due notice and hearing are required before
On December 9, 10, and 14, 2004, URPHI finally submitted to
revocation may be ordered by the SEC. In view of such specific
the SEC its 1st Quarterly Report for 2004, 2nd Quarterly Report for
mandate of the SRC in cases of revocation, the CA rejected the
2004, and 3rd Quarterly Report for 2004, respectively. Meantime,
SEC's argument that the hearing conducted for the suspension of
URPHI appealed the SEC Order of Revocation dated December 8,
URPHI's registration can already be considered as the hearing for
2004 by filing a Notice of Appeal and a Memorandum both dated
revocation.
January 3, 2005.
The CA also held that the SEC cannot brush aside the specific
In a Resolution dated December 15, 2005, the SEC denied
mandate of Section 13 .1 of the SRC by merely invoking the doctrine
URPHI's appeal, thus: WHEREFORE, premises considered, the
that administrative due process is satisfied when the party is given
Memorandum dated 03 January 2005 of Universal Rightfield
the opportunity to explain one's side or the opportunity to seek a
Property Holdings, Inc. praying for the reversal of the Order of
reconsideration of the action or ruling taken. Citing Globe Telecom,
Revocation dated 08 December 2004 is DENIED for lack of merit.
Inc.13 the CA explained that while such doctrine remains valid and
SO ORDERED.8 has been applied in numerous instances, it must give way in
instances when the statute itself, such as Section 13 .1, demands
Aggrieved, URPHI filed a petition for review with the CA.
prior notice and hearing. It added that the imperativeness for a
In a Decision dated January 21, 2008, the CA granted the hearing in cases of revocation of registration of securities assumes
petition and set aside the SEC Order of Revocation after finding that greater significance, considering that revocation is a measure
URPHI was not afforded due process because no due notice was punitive in character undertaken by an administrative agency in the
given and no hearing was conducted before its registration of exercise of its quasi-judicial functions. Dissatisfied with the CA
securities and permit to sell them to the public was revoked. The Decision, the SEC filed the instant petition for review on certiorari,
CA noted that the hearing conducted on July 6, 2004 was only for raising the sole issue that:
the purpose of determining whether URPHI's registration and
THE COURT OF APPEALS DECIDED A QUESTION OF SUBSTANCE
permit to sell should be suspended and not whether said
WHICH IS NOT IN ACCORD WITH THE LAW AND PREVAILING
registration should be revoked.
JURISPRUDENCE.14
The CA ruled that based on how Sections 5.1 (m)9 and 13.110 of
On the one hand, the SEC contends that URPHI was accorded
the SRC are worded, suspension and revocation of URPHI's
all the opportunity to be heard and comply with all the reportorial
requirements before the Order of Revocation was issued. On the other hand, URPHI insists that the CA was correct in
Specifically, in the Order dated July 27, 2004 suspending URPHI's ruling that the SRC requires separate notices and hearings for
registration of securities for 60 days, the SEC expressly warned that revocation and suspension of registration of securities and permit
such registration would be revoked should it persistently fail to to sell them to the public. It then asserts that the warning
comply with the said requirements. Still, URPHI continuously failed contained in the SEC's suspension Order dated July 27, 2004 does
to submit the required reports. On August 23, 2004, the SEC not meet the requirement of notice under the SRC. It stresses that
directed again URPHI to submit the required report and to show while the SEC issued a separate notice of hearing for such
cause why it should not be held liable for violation of the law. suspension, no similar notice was issued as regards such
Instead of submitting the required reports, URPHI requested for a revocation. It also notes that the July 6, 2004 hearing was with
final extension, or until November 15, 2004, within which to regard to the suspension of its registration of securities, and that
comply with its reportorial requirements. For URPHI's failure to no hearing was ever conducted for purposes of revocation of such
submit the said reports, the SEC issued the Order of Revocation registration.
dated December 8, 2004. URPHI immediately filed a motion for
On the SEC's claim that URPHI was afforded due process
reconsideration thereof through a Notice of Appeal and a
because it was already given the opportunity to seek a
Memorandum both dated January 3, 2005, which the SEC later
reconsideration of the Order of Revocation by filing its Notice of
denied in the Resolution dated December 15, 2005. Hence, URPHI
Appeal and Memorandum, URPHI argues that the filing of such
was amply accorded its guaranteed right to due process.
appeal did not cure the violation of its right to due process. In
The SEC also submits that the factual milieu of Globe Telecom, support of its argument, URPHI cites the Globe Telecom,
Inc.15cited by the CA in its Decision is starkly different from this Inc.16 ruling that notice and hearing are indispensable when an
case. Unlike in the former case where the Court ruled that the fine administrative agency exercises quasi-judicial functions and that
imposed by the National Telecommunications Commission without such requirements become even more imperative if the statute
notice and hearing, was null and void due to the denial of itself demands it.
petitioner's right to due process, the SEC points out that URPHI was
URPHI further cites the ruling17 in BLTB, Co. v. Cadiao, et
duly notified of its violations and the corresponding penalty that
al.,18to support its view that a motion for reconsideration is
may be imposed should it fail to submit the required reports, and
curative of a defect in procedural due process only if a party is given
was given more than enough time to comply before the Order of
sufficient opportunity to explain his side of the controversy. It
Revocation was issued. The SEC adds that a hearing was conducted
claims that the controversy referred to is the underlying
on July 6, 2004 as to URPHI's repeated failure to submit the
substantive controversy of which the procedural due process
reportorial requirements as mandated by the SRC and its
controversy is but an offshoot. Noting that the only issue raised in
implementing rules and regulations, which was the basis in issuing
its appeal was procedural, i.e., whether it was denied prior notice
the said Order.
and hearing under the SRC, URPHI contends that it cannot be said There is no dispute that violation of the reportorial
that by appealing to the SEC, it had the opportunity to explain its requirements under Section 17.119 of the Amended Implementing
side on substantive controversy which pertains to its alleged Rules and Regulation20 of the SRC is a ground for suspension or
violation of the SRC and failure to comply with the reportorial revocation of registration of securities pursuant to Sections 13.1
requirements that prompted the SEC to issue the Order of and 54.1 of the SRC. However, contrary to the CA ruling that
Revocation. Hence, such appeal cannot be considered curative of separate notices and hearings for suspension and revocation of
the defect in procedural due process which attended the issuance registration of securities and permit to sell them to the public are
of the said Order. required, Sections 13 .1 and 54.1 of the SRC expressly provide that
the SEC may suspend or revoke such registration only after due
URPHI further submits that the prior revocation of its
notice and hearing, to wit:
registration on May 29, 2003 did not cure the lack of due process
which attended the revocation of its registration on December 8, 13.1. The Commission may reject a registration statement and
2004. Since the SEC deemed it proper to lift the prior revocation, refuse registration of the security thereunder, or revoke the
such can no longer be used to sustain another revocation order, effectivity of a registration statement and the registration of the
much less one issued without prior notice and hearing. Granted security thereunder after due notice and hearing by issuing an
that it was accorded due process, URPHI asserts that the revocation order to such effect, setting forth its findings in respect thereto, if
of its registration of securities and permit to sell them to the public it finds that:
is inequitable under the circumstances. It calls attention to the
a) The issuer:
severe and certain consequences of such revocation, i.e.,
termination of the public offering of its securities, return of xxxx
payments received from purchasers thereof, and its delisting from
(ii) Has violated any of the provisions of this Code, the rules
the PSE, which will cause financial ruin and jeopardize its efforts to
promulgated pursuant thereto, or any order of the Commission of
recover from its current financial distress. Claiming that it exerted
which the issuer has notice in connection with the offering for
best effort and exercised good faith in complying with the
which a registration statement has been filed;21
reportorial requirements, URPHI avers that the interest of the
investing public will be better served if, instead of revoking its xxxx
registration of securities, the SEC will merely impose penalties and
54.1. If, after due notice and hearing, the Commission finds
allow it to continue as a going concern in the hope that it may later
that: (a) There is a violation of this Code, its rules, or its orders; (b)
return to profitability.
Any registered broker or dealer, associated person thereof has
The petition is meritorious. failed reasonably to supervise, with a view to preventing violations,
another person subject to supervision who commits any such
violation; ( c) Any registrant or other person has, in a registration Considering that the company is under rehabilitation, the
statement or in other reports, applications, accounts, records or request was granted and it was given a non-extendible period until
documents required by law or rules to be filed with the May 31, 2004 within which to comply.
Commission, made any untrue statement of a material fact, or
Despite the extension[,] however, it failed to submit said
omitted to state any material fact required to be stated therein or
reports. Hence, a hearing was held on July 6, 2004 wherein the
necessary to make the statements therein not misleading; or, in the
company's representative, its Chief Accountant and a Researcher
case of an underwriter, has failed to conduct an inquiry with
appeared. No sufficient reason or justification for the company's
reasonable diligence to insure that a registration statement is
inability to comply with its reporting obligation was presented.
accurate and complete in all material respects; or ( d) Any person
has refused to permit any lawful examinations into its affairs, it In view thereof, the Commission[,] in its meeting held on July
shall, in its discretion, and subject only to the limitations 22, 2004, resolved to SUSPEND the Registration of Securities and
hereinafter prescribed, impose any or all of the following sanctions Permit to Sell Securities to the Public issued to UNIVERSAL
as may be appropriate in light of the facts and circumstances: RIGHTFIELD PROPERTY HOLDINGS, INC., in accordance with Section
54 of the Securities Regulation Code.
(i) Suspension, or revocation of any registration for the offering
of securities;22 This said Suspension shall be effective for sixty (60) days or
until the reporting requirements are complied [with,] otherwise
The Court has consistently held that the essence of due
the Commission shall proceed with the revocation of the
process is simply an opportunity to be heard, or as applied to
company's registration of securities.
administrative proceedings, an opportunity to explain one's side or
an opportunity to seek a reconsideration of the action or ruling Let this Order be published in a newspaper of general
complained of.23 Any seeming defect in its observance is cured by circulation in the Philippines or on the Commission's web page.
the filing of a motion for reconsideration, and denial of due process
SO ORDERED.26
cannot be successfully invoked by a party who has had the
opportunity to be heard on such motion.24 What the law prohibits Contrary to the view that a separate notice of hearing to
is not the absence of previous notice, but the absolute absence revoke is necessary to initiate the revocation proceeding, the Court
thereof and the lack of opportunity to be heard.25 holds that such notice would be a superfluity since the Order dated
July 27, 2004 already states that such proceeding shall ensue if
In the present case, due notice of revocation was given to
URPHI would still fail to submit the reportorial requirements after
URPHI through the SEC Order dated July 27, 2004 which reads:
the lapse of the 60-day suspension period. After all, "due notice"
simply means the information that must be given or made to a
particular person or to the public within a legally mandated period
of time so that its recipient will have the opportunity to respond to requirements, as well as its request for final extension within which
a situation or to allegations that affect the individual's or public's to comply. Pertinent portions of the said Order read:
legal rights or duties.27
The Commission in its meeting held on July 22, 2004 resolved
Granted that no formal hearing was held before the issuance to suspend its Registration of Securities and Permit to Sell
of the Order of Revocation, the Court finds that there was Securities to the Public. The Order of Suspension stated that it was
substantial compliance with the requirements of due process when to be effective for sixty (60) days or until the reporting
URPHI was given opportunity to be heard. Upon receipt of the SEC requirements were complied with by the company; otherwise, the
Order dated July 27, 2004, URPHI filed the letters dated September Commission shall proceed with the revocation of the company's
13 and 28, 2004, seeking a final extension to submit the reportorial registration of securities.
requirements, and admitting that its failure to submit its 2nd
The sixty (60)-day period had elapsed on September 25, 2004
Quarterly Report for 2004 was due to the same reasons that it was
but the Commission received a letter on September 29, 2004 from
unable to submit its 2003 Annual Report and 1st Quarterly Report
the President of the company, Mr. Jose L. Merin. In the said letter,
for 2004. Notably, in its Order of Revocation, the SEC considered
it was admitted that the corporation had failed to submit its 2003
URPHI's letters and stated that it still failed to submit the required
Annual Report (SEC Form 17-A) and its 2004 1st and 2nd Quarterly
reports, despite the lapse of the final extension requested.
Reports (SEC Form 17-Q) but explained that the reason for its
In A.Z. Arnaiz, Realty, Inc. v. Office of the President,28 the Court inability to submit said reports was due to the non-finalization of
held that due process, as a constitutional precept, does not always, the company's audited financial statements for the fiscal year
and in all situations, require a trial-type proceeding. Litigants may ended December 31, 2003. It further stated that during its meeting
be heard through pleadings, written explanations, position papers, with its external auditor, SGV & Co., last September 8, 2004, SGV
memoranda or oral arguments. The standard of due process that agreed to facilitate the finalization of its financial statements within
must be met in administrative tribunals allows a certain degree of two (2) weeks. The corporation foresaw the impossibility of
latitude as long as fairness is not ignored. It is, therefore, not legally complying with its submission until the end of the month as the
objectionable for being violative of due process for an partners of SGV were still reviewing the final draft of the financial
administrative agency to resolve a case based solely on position statements, thus, the request for extension FOR THE LAST TIME
papers, affidavits or documentary evidence submitted by the until November 15, 2004 within which to comply.
parties. Guided by the foregoing principle, the Court rules that
SEC Form 17-A (for 2003) was finally submitted on December
URPHI was afforded opportunity to be heard when the SEC took
1, 2004.
into account in its Order of Revocation URPHI's September 13 and
28, 2004 letters, explaining its failure to submit the reportorial IN VIEW THEREOF, the Commission, in its meeting held on
December 2, 2004, resolved to REVOKE the Registration of
Securities and Permit to Sell Securities to the Public issued to Verily, URPHI was given the opportunity to be heard before the
UNIVERSAL RIGHTFIELD PROPERTY HOLDINGS, INC.29 Order of Revocation was issued, as well as the opportunity to seek
the reconsideration of such order.
Aside from having been given the opportunity to be heard
before the SEC issued the Order of Revocation, URPHI was likewise Meanwhile, the Court disagrees with URPHI's claim that the
able to seek reconsideration of such action complained of. After Globe Telecom, Inc.31 ruling - that notice and hearing are
the issuance of the said Order, URPHI filed a Notice of Appeal and indispensable when an administrative agency exercises quasi-
a Memorandum, asserting that it was issued without due notice judicial functions and that such requirements become even more
and hearing, and that the revocation is inequitable under the imperative if the statute itself demands it -is applicable to the
circumstances. In the Resolution dated December 15, 2004, the SEC present case.
denied URPHI's appeal in this wise:
In Gamboa v. Finance Secretary,32 the Court has held that the
In the instant case, URPHI was accorded due process when its SEC has both regulatory and adjudicative functions, thus:
Chief Financial Officer gave its side on the imputed violation and
Under its regulatory responsibilities, the SEC may pass upon
informed the Commission that it will not be able to submit its
applications for, or may suspend or revoke (after due notice and
Annual Report (SEC Form 17-A) for the fiscal year ending on 31
hearing), certificates of registration of corporations, partnerships
December 2003 and requested for additional time to comply with
and associations (excluding cooperatives, homeowners
the said requirements. The Commission granted URPHI a non-
associations, and labor unions); compel legal and regulatory
extendible period of forty-seven (47) calendar days or until 15
compliances; conduct inspections; and impose fines or other
November 2004 within which to comply.
penalties for violations of the Revised Securities Act, as well as
In spite of the extension of time given, URPHI still failed to implementing rules and directives of the SEC, such as may be
submit the said reports. During the 06 July 2004 hearing where the warranted.
Chief Accountant and researcher of URPHI were present, both
Relative to its adjudicative authority, the SEC has original and
failed to present sufficient justifications for URPHI's inability to
exclusive jurisdiction to hear and decide controversies and cases
comply with its reporting obligations.
involving
It is also noteworthy to mention that URPHI's Registration of
–
Securities and Permit to Sell Securities to the Public had been
revoked on several occasions on account of the same deficiency. a. Intra-corporate and partnership relations between or
URPHI is aware of the SRC Rules and must suffer the consequences among the corporation, officers and stockholders and partners,
of its reported violations.30 including their elections or appointments;
b. State and corporate affairs in relation to the legal existence permit to sell them to the public cannot be considered a penalty
of corporations, partnerships and associations or to their but a withdrawal of a privilege, which regulatory power the SEC
franchises; and validly exercised after giving it due notice and opportunity to be
heard.
c. Investors and corporate affairs particularly in respect of
devices and schemes, such as fraudulent practices, employed by While URPHI correctly relied in BLTB Co., Inc. v. Cadiao35 to
directors, officers, business associates, and/or other stockholders, support its view that a motion for reconsideration is curative of a
partners, or members of registered firms; x x x defect in procedural due process only if a party is given sufficient
opportunity to explain his side of the controversy, the Court rejects
As can be gleaned from the aforequoted ruling, the revocation
URPHI's claim that it did not have the opportunity to explain the
of registration of securities and permit to sell them to the public is
substantive controversy of its violation of the SRC reportorial
not an exercise of the SEC's quasi-judicial power, but of its
requirements.36 Contrary to the claim that only the issue of
regulatory power. A "quasi-judicial function" is a term which
procedural due process was raised in its appeal with the SEC, URPHI
applies to the action, discretion, etc., of public administrative
also raised in its Memorandum dated January 3, 2005 the reasons
officers or bodies, who are required to investigate facts, or
why it failed to comply with the said requirements, and why
ascertain the existence of facts, hold hearings, and draw
revocation is inequitable under the circumstances.37
conclusions from them, as a basis for their official action and to
exercise discretion of a judicial nature.33 Although Section 13.1 of For the late filing of annual report and quarterly report, SEC
the SRC requires due notice and hearing before issuing an order of Memorandum Circular No. 6, Series of 2005, the Consolidated
revocation, the SEC does not perform such quasi-judicial functions Scale of Fines in effect at the time the offenses were committed,
and exercise discretion of a judicial nature in the exercise of such provides for the following administrative penalties:
regulatory power. It neither settles actual controversies involving
It bears emphasis that URPHI had committed several offenses
rights which are legally demandable and enforceable, nor
for failure to comply with the reportorial requirements for which it
adjudicates private rights and obligations in cases of adversarial
was fined and its registration of securities revoked. On May 29,
nature. Rather, when the SEC exercises its incidental power to
2003, the SEC issued an Order revoking URPHI's Registration of
conduct administrative hearings and make decisions, it does so in
Securities and Permit to Sell Securities to the Public for its failure
the course of the performance of its regulatory and law
to timely file its Year 2001 Annual Report and Year 2002 1st, 2nd
enforcement function.
and 3rd Quarterly Reports. Then, on October 24, 2003, the SEC
Significantly, unlike in Globe Telecom, Inc.34 where the Court granted URPHI's petition to lift the revocation, considering the
ruled that the fine imposed by the NTC without notice and hearing, current economic situation, its belated filing of the required annual
was null and void due to the denial of petitioner's right to due and quarterly reports, and its payment of the reduced fine of
process, the revocation of URPHI's registration of securities and ₱82,000.00. Despite the foregoing, URPHI failed again to submit its
2003 Annual Report, and Year 2004 1st, 2nd and 3rd Quarterly and its Order of Revocation dated December 8, 2004 are
Reports within the requested extension periods. REINSTATED.
Therefore, notwithstanding the belated filing of the said SO ORDERED.
reports, as well as the claim that public interest would be better
served if the SEC will merely impose penalties and allow it to
continue in order to become profitable again, the SEC cannot be
faulted for revoking once again URPHI's registration of securities
and permit to sell them to the public due to its repeated failure to
timely submit such reports. Needless to state, such continuing
reportorial requirements are pursuant to the state policies
declared in Section 238 of the SRC of protecting investors and
ensuring full and fair disclosure of information about securities and
their issuer.
All told, the CA erred in ruling that the SEC revoked URPHI's
registration of securities and permit to sell them to the public
without due process of law.1âwphi1 Quite the contrary, the
requirements of due notice and hearing under Sections 13 .1 and
54.1 of the SRC were substantially complied with. Due notice was
made through the Order dated July 27, 2004 stating that revocation
proceeding shall ensue if URPHI would still fail to submit the
reportorial requirements after the lapse of the 60-day suspension
period. Though no formal hearing was held, URPHI was still given
an opportunity to be heard through the letters dated September
13 and 18, 2004 before the Order of Revocation was issued, as well
as through its Notice of Appeal and Memorandum when it moved
to reconsider the said order.
WHEREFORE, the petition is GRANTED and the Decision dated
January 21, 2008 of the Court of Appeals in CA-G.R. SP No. 93337,
is REVERSED and SET ASIDE. In lieu thereof, the Resolution dated
December 15, 2005 of the Securities and Exchange Commission
SMPI completed the payments for the 130 Italia II lots in December
1995.6 In compliance with Section 37 of all the three Deeds of
Absolute Sale, BF Homes delivered the Transfer Certificates of Title
(TCTs) to SMPI but only for 110 of the 130 Italia II lots purchased by
SMPI.
While this board may have the competence to rule on the validity As early as August 1987, the Supreme Court already recognized the
of the sales transaction entered into by Orendain ostensibly in authority of the HLURB, as successor agency of the National
behalf of BF Homes, we decline to rule on the said issue in Housing Authority (NHA), to regulate, pursuant to PD 957 in
deference to the SEC or its successor-in-interest, which has first relation to PD 1344, the real estate trade, with exclusive
taken cognizance of the issue, applying the doctrine of primary jurisdiction to hear and decide cases "involving specific
jurisdiction. Thus, in Vidad vs. RTC of Negros Oriental, it was performance of contractual and statutory obligations filed by
held:chanRoblesvirtualLawlibrary buyers of subdivision lots . . . against the owner, developer, dealer,
broker or salesman" (Antipolo Realty Corp. vs. National Housing
While no prejudicial question strictly arises where one is a civil case Authority (153 SCRA). Then came the reiterative rulings in Solid
and the other is an administrative proceeding, in the interest of Homes vs. Pavawal (177 SCRA 72 [1989]), United Housing Corp. vs.
good order, it behooves the court to suspend its action on the cases Dayrit (181 SCRA 295 [1990]), and Realty Exchange Venture Corp.
before it pending the final outcome of the administrative vs. Sendino, 233 SCRA 665 [1994]. And as stressed in Realty
proceedings. The doctrine of primary jurisdiction does not warrant Exchange, citing C.T. Torres Enterprises, Inc. vs. Hibionada (191
a court to arrogate unto itself the authority to resolve a controversy SCRA 268 [1990], the HLURB, in the exercise of its adjudicatory
the jurisdiction over which is initially lodged with an administrative powers and functions, "must interpret and apply contracts,
body [of special competence]. determine the rights of the parties under these contracts and award
damages whenever appropriate."
Wherefore, the petition for review is denied and the decision of the
office below is affirmed.24 Given its clear statutory mandate, the HLURB's decision to await
chanrobleslaw for some other forum to decide - if ever one is forthcoming - the
issue on the authority of Orendain to dispose of subject lots before
SMPI appealed the foregoing Decision of the HLURB Board of it peremptorily resolves the basic complaint is unwarranted, the
Commissioners before the OP. The appeal was docketed as O.P. issues thereon having been joined and the respective position
Case No. 03-E-203. The OP, in its Decision25 dated January 27, 2004, papers and the evidence of the parties having been submitted. To
adjudged that the HLURB should have resolved HLURB Case No. us, it behooved the HLURB to adjudicate, with usual dispatch, the
REM-082400-11183:cralawlawlibrary right and obligations of the parties in line with its appreciation of
the obtaining facts and applicable law. To borrow from Mabuhay
Textile Mills Corp. vs. Ongpin(141 SCRA 437), it does not have to execute the corresponding deed may be accorded serious
rely on the findings of others to discharge this adjudicatory consideration were it not for its acceptance and retention of the
functions.26chanrobleslaw purchase price for the covered lots. As aptly argued in this appeal,
citing jurisprudence, estoppel attached to [BF Homes] when it
The OP then proceeded to resolve the question of whether or not accepted the benefits arising from the performance of SMPI of its
SMPI was entitled to the delivery of the 20 TCTs:cralawlawlibrary undertaking under the contract of sale. By the doctrine of estoppel,
There can be no quibbling about the following postulates: 1) The a party is barred from repudiating or canceling an otherwise
existence of a perfected deed of absolute sale covering the said defective or rescissible contract by his receipt of payments due
lots; 2) SMPI appears to be an innocent purchaser for value; 3) Full thereunder (Republic v. Acoje Mining Co., Inc., 7 SCRA 361; Angeles
payment and receipt by [BF Homes] of the stipulated purchase v. Calasanz, 135 SCRA 332); the bar of estoppel also precludes one
price; 4) Admission by the SEC of FBO's audited Closing Report; 5). who, by his conduct, had induced another to act in a particular
Termination of the rehabilitation proceedings, and 6) The manner, from adopting an inconsistent position that thereby
obligation of the owner or developer under Sec. 25 of PD 957 causes prejudice to another (Cruz vs. CA, 293 SCRA 239).
to "deliver the title of the lot or units to the buyer upon [full]
payment of the lot or unit." Significantly, Orendain signed the three deeds of sale adverted to
covering 130 lots in 1992 and 1993, or during FBO's watch as
Given the foregoing perspective, the question thus formulated receiver. Yet, [BF Homes] opted to fully implement the transactions
should be answered in the affirmative. [BF Homes'] challenge covered by two of these deeds and partially implement the third by
against the validity of the conveying deed on the ground of delivering the titles to 110 lots. In net effect, [BF Homes] did
inadequacy of the purchase price cannot be given cogency. As a recognize the authority of Orendain to execute those contracts. But
matter of law, lesion or inadequacy of cause shall not invalidate a if Orendain was indeed bereft of authority during the time material,
contract, save in cases specified by law or unless there has been as [BF Homes] would have this Office believe, how explain (sic) its
fraud, mistake or undue influence (Art. 1355, Civil Code). Thus, [BF inaction to recover damages against one it veritably depicts as an
Homes'] allegation about the inadequacy of price for the twenty impostor?
(20) lots, even if true, cannot invalidate the sale in question, absent
a showing that such sale is a case exempted by law from the x x x x
operation of said article or that fraud, mistake or undue influence
attended the sale (Auyong Hian vs. CTA, 59 SCRA 110). Much has been made about the sale of the 130 lots not having been
approved by the SEC. It bears to stress in this regard that the
[BF Homes'] posture regarding the invalidity of the same sales Closing Report which, doubtless includes the said sale, had been
transaction owing to Orendain's alleged lack of authority to confirmed and admitted by the SEC Hearing Panel. It may be that
the Commission en banc did not specifically confirm and approve had ruled with finality on the issue of Orendain's authority to sell
the sale. But neither did it interpose objection thereto, let alone the 130 Italia II lots to SMPI:
disapprove the same. Be that as it may, the presumptive validity Presidential Decree No. 957 was issued on 12 July 1976. It was
and enforceability of such sale must be posited.27 promulgated to cover questions that relate to subdivisions and
chanrobleslaw condominiums. Its object is to provide for an appropriate
government agency, the HLURB, to which all parties aggrieved in
The OP denied the claims for damages of both parties for the enforcement of contractual rights with respect to said category
insufficiency of evidence but awarded attorney's fees in the of real estate may take course.
amount of PI00,000.00 to SMPI, which was compelled to litigate. In
the end, the OP decreed:cralawlawlibrary In the case of JESUS LIM ARRANZA vs. B.F. HOMES, INC., the
IN VIEW OF ALL THE FOREGOING, judgment is hereby entered Supreme Court said:
ordering BF Homes, Inc., to deliver to San Miguel Properties, Inc., Section 3 ofP.D. No. 957 empowered the National Housing
the corresponding titles to the lots subject of the instant case, free Authority (NHA) with the "exclusive jurisdiction to regulate the
from all liens aind encumbrances, except to the subdivision real estate trade and business." On 2 April
restrictions referred to in the conveying deed of sale, and to pay
the latter the sum of P100,000.00 as and. by way of attorneys' fees. 1978, P.D. No. 1344 was issued to expand the jurisdiction of the
All other claims and counterclaims are hereby DISMISSED. The NHA to include the following:
decision of the HLURB dated 28 March 2003 is accordingly SECTION 1. In the exercise of its functions to regulate the real
REVERSED and SET ASIDE.28chanrobleslaw estate trade and business and in addition to its powers provided
for in Presidential Decree No. 957, the National Housing Authority
BF Homes filed a Motion for Reconsideration but it was denied by shall have exclusive jurisdiction to hear and decide cases of the
the OP in a Resolution29 dated March 26, 2004. following nature:chanRoblesvirtualLawlibrary
Aggrieved, BF Homes sought recourse from the Court of Appeals by A. Unsound real estate business
way of a Petition for Review30 under Rule 43 of the Revised Rules practices;ChanRoblesVirtualawlibrary
of Court, which was docketed as CA-G.R. SP No. 83631. In its
Decision31dated January 31, 2005, the Court of Appeals agreed with B. Claims involving refund and any other claims filed by
the OP that the HLURB had the primary and exclusive jurisdiction subdivision lot or condominium unit buyer against the project
to resolve the complaint for specific performance and damages of owner, developer, dealer, broker or salesman; and
SMPI and should not have suspended the proceedings until the SEC
C. Cases involving specific performance of contractual and
statutory obligations filed by buyers of subdivision lot or detrimental to the interest of the public and/or of the stockholder,
condominium unit asainst the owner, developer, dealer, broker or partners, members of associations or organizations registered
salesman. (Emphasis supplied.) with the Commission;ChanRoblesVirtualawlibrary
Thereafter, the regulatory and quasi-judicial functions of the NHA (b) Controversies arising out of intra-corporate or partnership
were transferred to the Human Settlements Regulatory relations, between and among stockholders, members, or
Commission (HSRC) by virtue of Executive Order No. 648 dated 7 associates; between any or all of them and the corporation,
February 1981. Section 8 thereof specifies the functions of the partnership or association of which they are stockholders,
NHA that were transferred to the HSRC including the authority to members or associates, respectively; and between such
hear and decide "cases on unsound real estate business practices; corporation, partnership or association and the state insofar as it
claims involving refund filed against project owners, developers, concerns their individual franchise or right to exist as such entity;
dealers, brokers or salesmen and cases of specific and
performance." Executive Order No. 90 dated 17 December 1986
renamed the HSRC as the Housing and Land Use Resulatory (c) Controversies in the election or appointments of directors,
Board (HLURB). (Underscoring supplied.) trustees, officers or managers of such corporations, partnerships
Certainly, in the instant case, [SMPI] is a buyer within the or associations.
contemplation of P.D. 957. Clearly, the acquisition of the one In the ARRANZA case, the Supreme Court said that:
hundred thirty (130) lots was for a valuable consideration. For the SEC to acquire jurisdiction over any controversy under
these provisions, two elements must be considered: (1) the status
The jurisdiction of the SEC, on the other hand, is defined by P.D. or relationship of the parties; and (2) the nature of the Question
No. 902-A, as amended, as follows: that is the subject of their controversy.
Sec. 5. In addition to the regulatory and adjudicative functions of
the Securities and Exchange Commission over corporations, The first element requires that the controversy must arise "out of
partnerships and other forms of associations registered with it as intra-corporate or partnership relations between and among
expressly granted under existing laws and decrees, it shall have stockholders, members or associates; between any or all of them
original and exclusive jurisdiction to hear and decide cases and the corporation, partnership or association of which they are
involving. stockholders, members or associates, respectively; and between
such corporation, partnership or association and the State in so
(a) Devices or schemes employed by or any acts, of the board of far as it concerns their individual franchises.
directors, business associates, its officers or partnership, In the instant case, [SMPI] is not a stockholder, member or
amounting to fraud and misrepresentation which may be associate of [BF Homes]. It is a lot buyer in the subdivision
developed by [BF Homes.] end in view of protecting the interests of the investing public and
creditors. On the other hand, the HLURB has jurisdiction over
The second element requires that the dispute among the parties matters relating to observance of laws governing corporations
be intrinsically connected with the regulation or the internal affairs engaged in the specific business of development of subdivisions and
of the corporation, partnership or association. condominiums. The HLURB and the SEC being bestowed with
distinct powers and functions, the exercise of those functions by one
In the case at hand, [SMPI's] complaint before the HLURB is for shall not abate the performance by the other of its own functions.
specific performance to enforce its rights as purchaser of As respondent puts it, "there is no contradiction between P.D. No.
subdivision lots as regards the delivery of twenty (20) TCTs. 902-A and P.D. No. 957."
Certainly, the issue in this case is not related to the "regulation" of Hence, the powers of the HLURB can not be in derogation of the
[BF Homes] or to [BF Homes'] "internal affairs." SEC's authority. P.D. Nos. 902-A and 957 are laws in pari materia.
This is because P.D. No. 902-A relates to all corporations, while P.D.
As a matter of fact, Section 25 of PD 957 provides: No. 957 pertains to corporations engaged in the particular business
Section 25. Issuance of Title. The owner or developer shall deliver of developing subdivisions and condominiums.
the title of the lot or unit to the buyer upon full payment of the lot
or unit. No fee, except those required for the registration of the Next, this brings us to the collateral issue of whether or not HLURB
deed of sale in the Registry of Deeds, shall be collected for the properly suspended the proceeding until SEC shall have resolved
issuance of such title. In the event a mortgage over the lot or unit with finality the issue of authority of Mr. Orendain.
is outstanding at the time of the issuance of the title to the buyer,
the owner or developer shall redeem the mortgage or the Given the foregoing perspective, the collateral issue thus
corresponding portion thereof within six months from such formulated should be answered in the negative. Furthermore, in
issuance in order that the title over any fully paid lot or unit may several cases decided by the Supreme Court, the High Court has
be secured and delivered to the buyer in accordance herewith, consistently ruled that the NHA or the HLURB has jurisdiction over
(underscoring supplied.) complaints arising from contracts between the subdivision
In the above-mentioned case of Arranza, the Supreme Court also developer and the lot buyer or those aimed at compelling the
said: subdivision developer to comply with its contractual and statutory
P.D. No. 902-A, as amended, defines the jurisdiction of the SEC; obligations.
while P.D. No. 957, as amended, delineates that of the HLURB.
These two quasi-judicial agencies exercise functions that are Hence, the HLURB should take jurisdiction over respondent's
distinct from each other. The SEC has authority over the operation complaint because it pertains to matters within the HLURB's
of all kinds of corporations, partnerships or associations with the
competence and expertise. The proceedings before the HLURB OR DETERMINED BY THE HLURB THAT WOULD HAVE
should not be suspended.32chanrobleslaw JUSTIFIED THE REMAND OF THE CASE.
2. IN ANY EVENT, [BF HOMES] AND THE COURT OF APPEALS'
The Court of Appeals, however, differed from the OP Decision by CLAIMED DOCTRINE OF PRIMARY JURISDICTION IS
ordering the; remand of the case to the HLURB in recognition of the FOREVER BARRED AS IT COULD NOT BE INVOKED FOR THE
doctrine of primary jurisdiction. The dispositive portion of the FIRST TIME ON APPEAL.
Decision of the appellate court reads: 3. EVEN ASSUMING ARGUENDO THAT THE DOCTRINE OF
WHEREFORE, the questioned Decision of the Office of the PRIMARY JURISDICTION IS STILL INVOCABLE, IT IS
President [is] AFFIRMED with modification. The case is REMANDED NONETHELESS INAPPLICABLE SINCE THE PARTIES HAD DULY
to the Housing and Land Use Regulatory Board for continuation of AMPLIFIED THEIR RESPECTIVE CAUSES OF ACTION AND
proceedings with dispatch.33 DEFENSES VIA THEIR SUBMISSION OF PLEADINGS AND
SMPI filed a Motion for Partial Reconsideration (Re: Decision dated POSITION PAPERS BEFORE THE HLURB, AND UPON WHICH
January 31, 2005)34 insofar as the Court of Appeals remanded the THE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT DECIDED ON THE MERITS.
case to the HLURB for further proceedings. The appellate court
denied said Motion in a Resolution35 dated August 9, 2005. II.
SMPI now comes before this Court,. through the instant Petition, EVEN THEN, THE COURT OF APPEALS COMMITTED GRAVE, SERIOUS
assailing the aforementioned Decision and Resolution of the Court AND REVERSIBLE ERROR WHEN IT REMANDED THE CASE TO THE
of Appeals based on the following assignment of errors: HLURB FOR FURTHER "PRESENTATION OF EVIDENCE" DESPITE THE
I. DECISION ON THE MERITS OF THE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT IN
THAT:
THE COURT OF APPEALS' DECISION DATED 31 JANUARY 2005 1. THE ISSUE HERE BEING A SIMPLE QUESTION OF LAW ON
REMANDING THE CASE TO THE HLURB IS CONSTITUTIONALLY WHETHER OR NOT SMPI WAS ENTITLED TO THE DELIVERY
FLAWED AND A PATENT NULLITY CONSIDERING THAT: IT OF THE BALANCE OF 130 FULLY PAID LOTS/TITLES OR
MISERABLY FAILED TO DISCUSS CLEARLY AND DISTINCTLY THE EQUIVALENT TO TWENTY (20) TITLES, THE COURT OF
LEGAL BASIS AND/OR JUSTIFICATION FOR REMANDING THE CASE APPEALS SHOULD HAVE AFFIRMED THE DECISION ON THE
TO THE HLURB AS MANDATED BY SECTION 14, ARTICLE VIII, 1987 MERITS OF THE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT.
CONSTITUTION. 2. IN FACT, THE RELEVANT FACTS OF THE CASE, E.G. FULL
1. WORSE, THE COURT OF APPEALS FAILED TO IDENTIFY THE PAYMENT OF THE PURCHASE PRICE OF THE SUBJECT LOTS
FACTUAL MATTERS THAT IT CLAIMS NEED STILL BE TRIED IN FAVOR OF [BF HOMES] AND NON-DELIVERY TO SMPI OF
THE TITLES OVER THE SUBJECT LOTS BY [BF HOMES], WERE
UNDISPUTED AND MORE SO ADMITTED BY THE PARTIES IN 1. THE SUBJECT SALE TRANSACTIONS, DULY APPROVED AND
THEIR RESPECTIVE HLURB POSITION PAPERS AND OTHER CONFIRMED BY THE SEC PER ITS ORDERS DATED 07
PLEADINGS FOR WHICH NO TRIABLE EVIDENTIARY MATTER NOVEMBER 1994 AND 31 JULY-1996, ARE PRESUMED VALID
IS LEFT TO BE RESOLVED BY THE HLURB. AND REGULAR SINCE THESE WERE OFFICIAL ACTS OF SEC-
3. INDEED, THE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT, PER ITS DECISION APPOINTED RECEIVER MR. FLORENCIO B. ORENDAIN.
DATED 27 JANUARY 2004, CORRECTLY RESOLVED THIS 2. IN FACT, SEC RECEIVER ORENDAIN'S ACTS CANNOT BE
SIMPLE ISSUE, AND FORTUNATELY IN FAVOR OF SMPI, IMPUGNED BY [BF HOMES] SINCE UNDER SECTION 9, RULE
BASED ON THE PLEADINGS AND POSITION PAPERS FILED BY 9, INTERIM RULES OF PROCEDURE GOVERNING INTRA-
THE PARTIES IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 5, RULE VI, CORPORATE CONTROVERSIES AND SECTION 17, RULE 4,
HLURB RULES. THE COURT OF APPEALS OUGHT TO HAVE INTERIM RULES OF PROCEDURE ON CORPORATE
SIMILARLY ENFORCED THIS HLURB RULE. REHABILITATION, WHICH OPERATES RETROACTIVELY BEING
4. FURTHER PROCEEDINGS BEFORE THE HLURB IS DILATORY, A PROCEDURAL RULE, RECEIVERS ENJOY IMMUNITY FROM
UNNECESSARY, SUPERFLUOUS AND CIRCUITOUS. SUITS ARISING FROM THE EXERCISE OF THEIR FUNCTIONS
HIERARCHICALLY (sic), THE HLURB IS PRECLUDED AND AND DUTIES.
BARRED FROM REOPENING, MUCH LESS REVERSING THE 3. NONETHELESS, [BF HOMES] IS ESTOPPED FROM REFUSING
DECISION OF THE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT. TO DELIVER THE REMAINING 20 TCTs SINCE IT HAD
5. THE COURT OF APPEALS' STANCE IS TANTAMOUNT TO A RE- PREVIOUSLY DELIVERED TO SMPI 110 TCTs OUT OF 130
OPENING OF THE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT'S DECISION, TCTs FOR WHICH [BF HOMES] HAD DULY .RECEIVED FULL
HENCE WOULD WREAK HAVOC TO THE DOCTRINE OF PAYMENT THEREFOR IN THE TOTAL AMOUNT
SUBSTANTIAL RES JUDICATA. PHP104,600,402.47.36 CONSEQUENTLY, [BF HOMES] IS
6. IF AT ALL, THE HLURB NEED ONLY BE DIRECTED TO RESOLVE OBLIGED TO DELIVER THE TITLES TO SMPI PURSUANT TO
SMPI'S PENDING MOTION FOR EXECUTION, AND NOT SECTION 25, P.D. 957.
CONDUCT FURTHER PROCEEDINGS FOR RECEPTION OF THE 4. THE MATTER OF THE PURCHASE PRICE IS IRRELEVANT
PARTIES' EVIDENCE THAT ARE UNSPECIFIED. CONSIDERING THE BIG VOLUME INVOLVED. IN FACT, THE
AVERAGE PURCHASE PRICE OF THE LOTS IN THE AMOUNT
III. OF PHP2,500.00 PER SQ. M. IS VALID AND REASONABLE
SINCE THE SALE INVOLVED A TOTAL OF 130 LOTS
THE COURT OF APPEALS COMMITTED GRAVE, SERIOUS AND AMOUNTING TO PHP 104,600,402.47.
REVERSIBLE ERROR WHEN IT FAILED AND/OR REFUSED TO AFFIRM 5. EVEN ASSUMING ARGUENDO THAT THERE MAY BE
THE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT'S DECISION DATED 27 JANUARY SUBSTANTIAL DISPARITY BETWEEN THE AVERAGE
2004 IN THAT: PURCHASE PRICE OF PHP2.500/SQ.M. AND THE MARKET
VALUE AT PHP3,500/SQ.M. AS [BF HOMES] CLAIMS, MERE condominium unit against the owner, developer, dealer,
INADEQUACY OF THE PURCHASE PRICE, STANDING ALONE broker or salesman." (Emphases ours.)
AND WITHOUT PROOF OF ACTUAL FRAUD, CANNOT
INVALIDATE THE PARTIES' SALES CONTRACT PER ARTICLE Per Executive Order No. 64841 dated February 7, 1981, the powers
1355, NEW CIVIL CODE. of the NHA were transferred to the Human Settlements Regulatory
6. IF AT ALL, [BF HOMES'] REMEDY IS TO FILE THE Commission, which, pursuant to Executive Order No. 90 dated
APPROPRIATE ACTION FOR RECONVEYANCE WITH THE December 17, 1986, was subsequently renamed as
REGULAR COURT, ABSENT WHICH, IT IS LEGALLY BOUND TO HLURB.42 In Siasoco v. Narvaja,43 the Court highlighted the
DELIVER TO SMPI THE SUBJECT TITLES. exclusive jurisdiction of the HLURB over complaints for specific
7. ACCORDINGLY, SINCE SMPI WAS CONSTRAINED TO performance in certain real estate transactions
LITIGATE DUE TO [BF HOMES'] UNJUSTIFIED REFUSAL TO Under the Executive Order creating it, the HLURB has exclusive
DELIVER THE SUBJECT TITLES, SMPI IS ENTITLED TO THE jurisdiction to "hear and decide cases of unsound real estate
PAYMENT OF ATTORNEY'S FEES.37 business practices; claims involving refund filed against project
owners, developers, dealers, brokers, or salesmen; and cases of
The Petition is meritorious. specific performance." Accordingly, in United Housing Corporation
v. Dayrit, we ruled that it is the HLURB, not the trial court, which
Presidential Decree No. 95738 dated July 12, 1976 conferred has jurisdiction over complaints for specific performance filed
exclusive jurisdiction to regulate the real estate trade and business against subdivision developers to compel the latter to execute
upon the National Housing Authority (NHA).39 Presidential Decree deeds of absolute sale and to deliver the certificates of title to
No. 134440dated April 2, 1978 expanded the quasi-judicial powers buyers. (Emphases supplied.)
of NHA by providing as follows:
Section 1. In the exercise of its functions to regulate the real estate The Court reiterated in Bank of the Philippines Islands v. ALS
trade and business and in addition to its powers provided for in Management and Development Corporation44 that
Presidential Decree No. 957, the National Housing Authority shall [T]he jurisdiction of the HLURB over cases enumerated in Section 1
have exclusive jurisdiction to hear and decide cases of the of PD No. 1344 is exclusive. Thus, we have ruled that the board
following nature: Unsound real estate business practices; Claims has sole jurisdiction in a complaint of specific performance for the
involving refund and any other claims filed by subdivision lot or delivery of a certificate of title to a buyer of a subdivision lot; for
condominium unit buyer against the project owner, developer, claims of refund regardless of whether the sale is perfected or not;
dealer, broker or salesman; and and for determining whether there is a perfected contract of sale.
A. Cases involving specific performance of contractual and (Emphases supplied.)
statutory obligations filed by buyers of subdivision lot or
under Section 1 of Presidential Decree No. 1344 and its technical
It is clear from the plain language of Section 1 of Presidential competence and expertise over the subject matter. The HLURB was
Decree No. 1344 and aforecited jurisprudence that the HLURB had called upon to determine the contractual obligations of BF Homes
exclusive jurisdiction over the complaint for specific performance and SMPI, as seller and buyer of subdivision lots, respectively,
filed by SMPI against BF Homes for the delivery of the remaining 20 under the terms and conditions of the Deeds of Absolute Sale in
TCTs. relation to the provisions of Presidential Decree No. 957. In
contrast, the proceedings before the SEC involved the receivership
In fact, in the instant case, the HLURB did exercise jurisdiction over of BF Homes, an intra-corporate matter, as pointed out by the
and did take cognizance of the complaint of SMPI. Arbiter Balasolla Court of Appeals. While the HLURB and SEC proceedings may be
received pleadings and evidences from the parties, and after the related (i.e., Orendain executed the Deeds of Absolute Sale of the
period for filing position papers and draft decisions by the parties 130 Italia II lots as receiver of BF Homes), the two cases could
had lapsed, deemed the case submitted for decision. However, at proceed independently of one another. A ruling by the SEC that
this stage, Arbiter Balasolla demurred, and instead of deciding the Orendain did not have or had exceeded his authority as receiver in
case, suspended the proceedings until the SEC ruled on the issue of executing the Deeds of Absolute Sale is not absolutely
whether or not Orendain, the receiver of BF Homes, had authority determinative of the fate of the complaint for specific performance
to execute the Deeds of Absolute Sale over the 130 Italia II lots in of SMPI before the HLURB. It would not automatically result in the
favor of SMPI. On appeal, the HLURB Board of Commissioners nullification or rescission of the said Deeds or justify the refusal of
affirmed the suspension of proceedings. BF Homes to deliver the 20 TCTs to SMPI as there would be other
issues which need to be considered, such as the good faith or bad
When the case was appealed to the OP by SMPI, and then to the faith of SMPI as buyer, ratification by BF Homes of the
Court of Appeals by BF Homes, both the OP and the Court of Deeds, etc., and the HLURB is not obliged to suspend its
Appeals sustained the jurisdiction of HLURB over the complaint for proceedings until all of these issues are resolved or decided by
specific performance filed by SMPI, the only difference being that other courts/tribunals. HLURB could already make a preliminary
the OP proceeded to resolve the case on the merits based on the finding on the validity of the Deeds of Absolute Sale executed by
evidence on record while the appellate court remanded the case to Orendain for the purpose of ascertaining the right of SMPI to the
the HLURB for further proceedings. delivery of the 20 TCTs. The HLURB is behooved to settle the
controversy brought before it with dispatch if only to achieve the
The OP and the Court of Appeals are correct that the HLURB, in the purpose of Presidential Decree No. 957, to wit
exercise of its exclusive jurisdiction, did not have to suspend the
proceedings and should have went ahead to resolve the complaint The provisions of P.D No. 957 were intended to encompass all
for specific performance filed by SMPI given its statutory mandate questions regarding subdivisions and condominiums. The intention
was to provide for an appropriate government agency, the HLURB, requiring the special knowledge, experience, and services of the
to which all parties - buyers and sellers of subdivision and administrative tribunal to determine technical and intricate
condominium units - may seek remedial recourse. The law matters of fact, and a uniformity of ruling is essential to comply
recognized, too, that subdivision and condominium development with the purposes of the regulatory statute
involves public interest and welfare and should be brought to a 48
administered." However, said doctrine is not an absolute or
body, like the HLURB, that has technical expertise. In the exercise inflexible rule. The Court recognized several exceptions in Republic
of its powers, the HLURB, on the other hand, is empowered to v. Lacap,
interpret and apply contracts, and determine the rights of private [T]he doctrine of exhaustion of administrative remedies and the
parties under these contracts. This ancillary power, generally corollary doctrine of primary jurisdiction, which are based on
judicial, is now no longer with the regular courts to the extent that sound public policy and practical considerations, are not inflexible
the pertinent HLURB laws provide.45 rules. There are many accepted exceptions, such as: (a) where
Nonetheless, the Court disagrees with the Court of Appeals and there is estoppel on the part of the party invoking the doctrine; (b)
finds no more need to remand the case to the HLURB. where the challenged administrative act is patently illegal,
amounting to lack of jurisdiction; (c) where there is unreasonable
To recall, the parties were able to file pleadings and submit delay or official inaction that will irretrievably prejudice the
evidence before Arbiter Balasolla. The case was already deemed complainant; (d) where the amount involved is relatively small so
submitted for resolution with Arbiter Balasolla stopping short only as to make the rule impractical and oppressive; (e) where the
of actually rendering a decision. Taking into account that the question involved is purely legal and will ultimately have to be
necessary pleadings and evidence of the parties are already on decided by the courts of justice; (f) where judicial intervention is
record, returning the instant case to the HLURB for further urgent; (g) when its application may cause great and irreparable
proceedings will simply be circuitous and inconsistent with the damage; (h) where the controverted acts violate due process; (i)
summary nature of HLURB proceedings.46 The Court keeps in mind when the issue of non-exhaustion of administrative remedies has
the shared objective of Rule 1, Section 2 of the 1996 Rules of been rendered moot; (j) when there is no other plain, speedy and
Procedure of the HLURB, as amended, and Rule 1, Section 6 of the adequate remedy; (k)when strong public interest is involved; and,
Revised Rules of Court to promote a just, speedy, and inexpensive (1) in quo warranto proceedings, x x x. (Emphases
disposition/determination of every action.47 supplied.)chanrobleslaw
Pursuant to the doctrine of primary jurisdiction, "the courts cannot The contractual relationship between BF Homes as owner and
or will not determine a controversy involving a question which is SMPI as buyer of subdivision lots is governed by Presidential Decree
within the jurisdiction of an administrative tribunal, where the No. 957 and is undeniably imbued with public interest. Hence, it is
question demands the exercise of sound administrative discretion crucial that the dispute between them be resolved as swiftly as
possible. In Spouses Chua v. Ang,50 the Court declared that "public
interest and welfare are involved in subdivision and condominium Thus, considering the peculiar circumstances attendant in the
development, as the terms of Presidential Decree Nos. 957 and instant case, this Court sees the cogency to exercise its plenary
1344 expressly reflect, x x x Shelter is a basic human need whose power:
fulfillment cannot afford any kind of delay." "It is a rule of procedure for the Supreme Court to strive to settle
the entire controversy in a single proceeding leaving no root or
Even if the case is no longer remanded, BF Homes cannot claim branch to bear the seeds of future litigation. No useful purpose will
denial of due process. "The essence of due process is to be heard, be served if a case or the determination of an issue in a case is
and, as applied to administrative proceedings, this means a fair and remanded to the trial court only to have its decision raised again to
reasonable opportunity to explain one's side, or an opportunity to the Court of Appeals and from there to the Supreme Court (citing
seek a reconsideration of the action or ruling complained of. Board of Commissioners vs. Judge Joselito de la Rosa and Judge
Administrative due process cannot be fully equated with due Capulong, G.R. Nos. 95122-23).
process in its strict judicial sense, for in the former a formal or trial-
type hearing is not always necessary, and technical rules of "We have laid down the rule that the remand of the case or of an
procedure are not strictly applied."51 In the instant case, SMPI and issue to the lower court for further reception of evidence is not
BF Homes were afforded the opportunity to present and address necessary where the Court is in position to resolve the dispute
each other's arguments through an exchange of pleadings, as well based on the records before it and particularly where the ends of
as to submit their respective evidence before Arbiter Balasolla. To justice would not be subserved by the remand thereof (Escudem
recall, the case was already submitted for decision before Arbiter vs. Dulay, 158 SCRA 69). Moreover, the Supreme Court is clothed
Balasolla, meaning, there is nothing more left for the parties to with ample authority to review matters, even those not raised on
submit or do. To remand the case and repeat the entire process appeal if it finds that their consideration is necessary in arriving at
once again before the HLURB Arbiter will not only be impractical, a just disposition of the case."
but also unreasonable and oppressive for SMPI. On many occasions, the Court, in the public interest and for the
expeditious administration of justice, has resolved actions on the
Relevant herein are the following pronouncements of the Court merits instead of remanding them to the trial court for further
in Ching v. Court of Appeals52: proceedings, such as where the ends of justice would not be
[T]he Supreme Court may, on certain exceptional instances, resolve subserved by the remand of the case.
the merit:? of a case on the basis of the records and other evidence
before it, most especially when the resolution of these issues Consequently, the Court proceeds to resolve the primary issue in
would best serve the ends of justice and promote the speedy this case: Whether or not SMPI is entitled to the delivery of the
disposition of cases. remaining 20 TCTs for the lots it purchased from BF Homes.
under Sec. IV and otherwise upon compliance by the VENDEES of
The Court answers affirmatively. all obligations therein, the VENDOR will convey to the VENDEE all
rights and interests of the former and to the Unit, subject hereof
Section 25 of Presidential Decree No. 957 explicitly mandates that together with the interest in the common area and in the
"[t]he owner or developer shall deliver the title of the [subdivision] Condominium Corporation appurtenant to such unit x x x."
lot or [condominium] unit to the buyer upon full payment of the lot
or unit." Sec. 25, P.D. 957 - Issuance of Title. - The owner or developer shall
deliver the title of the lot or unit to the buyer upon full payment
Section 3 of all the three Deeds of Absolute Sale also reads: of the lot or unit x x x. In the event a mortgage over the lot or unit
3. [BF Homes] likewise covenants to deliver to [SMPI] the is outstanding at the time of the issuance of the title to the buyer,
properties free and clear of tenants, if any, and shall submit any the owner or developer shall redeem the mortgage or the
and all titles, documents and/or papers which may be required to corresponding portion thereof within six months from such
effect the transfer of the properties to [SMPI][.]53chanrobleslaw issuance in order that the title over any paid lot or unit may be
secured and delivered to the buyer in accordance herewith."
In the case at bench, SMPI submitted adequate proof showing full Petitioner also attempts to justify its failure to deliver the
payment to and receipt by BF Homes of the purchase price for the certificate of title of private respondent Teng by claiming that it
130 Italia II lots as fixed in the Deeds of Absolute Sale.54 BF Homes used the title as part collateral for the additional loan NHA had
expressly admitted receipt of some payments, while it remained extended for the construction of the fifth floor.
silent as to the others without presenting controverting evidence.
The Court observes the frequent allusion of petitioner to its
Upon full payment by SMPI of the purchase price for the 130 Italia predicament brought about by the abandonment of the project by
II lots to BF Homes, it became mandatory upon BF Homes to deliver the first contractor. But such is irrelevant in light of Sec. 25 of P.D.
the TCTs for said lots to SMPI. As the Court held in G.O.A.L., Inc. v. 957 as well as of the Contract to Sell of the parties. While we
Court of Appeals55: empathize with petitioner in its financial dilemma we cannot
Upon full payment of the agreed price, petitioner is mandated by make innocent parties suffer the consequences of the former's
law to deliver the title of the lot or unit to the buyer. Both the lack of business acumen. Upon full payment of a unit, petitioner
"Contract to Sell" of petitioner and private respondents, and Sec. loses all its rights and interests to the unit in favor of the buyer, x
25 of P.D. 957 state - x x. (Emphases supplied.)
Sec. III (Contract to Sell). - Title and Ownership of Unit. Upon full
payment by the vendees of the full amount of the purchase price To justify its refusal to deliver the remaining 20 TCTs to SMPI, BF
stipulated under Sec. Ill hereof, the assessments and expenses Homes asserts that 1) the Deeds of Absolute Sale were undated
and not notarized; 2) Orendain did not have or exceeded his Art. 1405. Contracts infringing the Statute of Frauds, referred to in
authority as receiver in entering into the contracts of sale of the No. 2 of Article 1403, are ratified by the failure to object to the
Italia II lots with SMPI; and 3) the consideration for the said Italia II presentation of oral evidence to prove the same, or by the
lots were grossly inadequate and disadvantageous for BF Homes. acceptance of benefit under them.
The Court is not persuaded. The contracts of sale of the 130 Italia II lots between BF Homes and
SMPI were actually reduced into writing into the three Deeds of
Article 1358(1) of the Civil Code requires that "[a]cts and contracts Absolute Sale which were signed by the representatives of the two
which have for their object the creation, transmission, modification corporations. The only defect was that the Deeds were not
or extinguishment of real rights over immovable property" must notarized and, therefore, were not public documents as required
appear in a public document; and sales of real property or of an by Article 1358(1) of the Civil Code. Cenido v. Spouses
interest therein shall be governed by Article 1403(2) and 1405 of Apacionado56 involved a closely similar situation and the Court
the same Code. Pertinent portions of Articles 1403(2) and 1405 of adjudged therein that
the Civil Code are reproduced below: The sale of real property should be in writing and subscribed by the
Art. 1403. The following contracts are unenforceable, unless they party charged for it to be enforceable. The "Pagpapatunay" is in
are ratified: writing and subscribed by Bonifacio Aparato, the vendor; hence,
it is enforceable under the Statute of Frauds. Not having been
x x x x subscribed and sworn to before a notary public, however, the
"Pagpapatunay" is not a public document, and therefore does not
(2) Those that do not comply with the Statute of Frauds as set forth comply with Article 1358, Paragraph 1 of the Civil Code.
in this number. In the following cases an agreement hereafter
made shall be unenforceable by action, unless the same, or some The requirement of a public document in Article 1358 is not for
note or memorandum, thereof, be in writing, and subscribed by the the validity of the instrument but for its efficacy. Although a
party charged, or by his agent; evidence, therefore, of the conveyance of land is not made in a public document, it does not
agreement cannot be received without the writing, or a secondary affect the validity of such conveyance. Article 1358 does not
evidence of its contents: require the accomplishment of the acts or contracts in a public
x x x x instrument in order to validate the act or contract but only to
insure its efficacy, so that after the existence of said contract has
(e) An agreement of the leasing for a longer period than one year, been admitted, the party bound may be compelled to execute the
or for the sale of real property or of an interest therein; proper document, x x x.
xxxx
x x x x and indispensable. Consequently, the effect of non-compliance
with the requirement of the Statute is simply that no action can
The private conveyance of the house and lot is therefore valid be enforced unless the requirement is complied with. Clearly, the
between Bonifacio Aparato and respondent spouses, x x x For form required is for evidentiary purposes only. Hence, if the parties
greater efficacy of the contract, convenience of the parties and to permit a contract to be proved, without any objection, it is then
bind third persons, respondent spouses have the right to compel just as binding as if the Statute has been complied with.
the vendor or his heirs; to execute the necessary document to
properly convey the property The purpose of the Statute is to prevent fraud and perjury in the
enforcement of obligations depending for their evidence on the
Also instructive is the following discussion of the Court in Swedish unassisted memory of witnesses, by requiring certain enumerated
Match v. Court of Appeals,57 on the Statute of Frauds contracts and transactions to be evidenced by a writing signed by
the party to be charged.
The Statute of Frauds embodied in Article 1403, paragraph (2), of
the Civil Code requires certain contracts enumerated therein to be However, for a note or memorandum to satisfy the Statute, it must
evidenced by some note or memorandum in order to be be complete in itself and cannot rest partly in writing and partly in
enforceable. The term "Statute of Frauds" is descriptive of statutes parol. The note or memorandum must contain the names of the
which require certain classes of contracts to be in writing. The parties, the terms and conditions of the contract, and a description
Statute does not deprive the parties of the right to contract with of the property sufficient to render it capable of identification. Such
respect to the matters therein involved, but merely regulates the note or memorandum must contain the essential elements of the
formalities of the contract necessary to render it enforceable. contract expressed with certainty that may be ascertained from the
Evidence of the agreement cannot be received without the note or memorandum itself, or some other writing to which it
writing or a secondary evidence of its contents. refers or within which it is connected, without resorting to parol
evidence.
The Statute, however, simply provides the method by which the
contracts enumerated therein may be proved but does not x x x x
declare them invalid because they are not reduced to writing. By
law, contracts are obligatory in whatever form they may have been The Statute of Frauds is applicable only to contracts which are
entered into, provided all the essential requisites for their validity executory and not to those which have been consummated either
are present. However, when the law requires that a contract be in totally or partially. If a contract has been totally or partially
some form in order that it may be valid or enforceable, or that a performed, the exclusion of parol evidence would promote fraud
contract be proved in a certain way, that requirement is absolute or bad faith, for it would enable the defendant to keep the
benefits already derived by him from the transaction in litigation, Chairman of FBO Networks Management, Inc., the appointed
and at the same time, evade the obligations, responsibilities or receiver of BF Homes.
liabilities assumed or contracted by him thereby. This rule,
however, is predicated on the fact of ratification of the contract Under Section 6(d) of Presidential Decree No. 902-A, otherwise
within the meaning of Article 1405 of the Civil Code either (1) by known as the SEC Reorganization Act, the management committee
failure to object to the presentation of oral evidence to prove the or rehabilitation receiver is empowered to take custody and control
same, or (2) by the acceptance of benefits under them. x x x. of all existing assets and properties of such corporations under
(Emphases supplied.)chanrobleslaw management; to evaluate the existing assets and liabilities,
earnings and operations of such corporations; to determine the
Based on the afore-quoted jurisprudence, the Deeds of Absolute best way to salvage and protect the interest of investors and
Sale are enforceable. First, the Deeds are already in writing and creditors; to study, review and evaluate the feasibility of continuing
signed by the parties, and only lack notarization, a formality which operations, and restructure and rehabilitate such entities if
SMPI could compel BF Homes to comply with. As private determined to be feasible by the SEC.58 The acts of the receiver,
documents, the Deeds are still binding between the parties and the being an appointed officer of the SEC,59 enjoy the presumption of
conveyance of the 130 Italia II lots by BF Homes to SMPI by virtue regularity.60
of said Deeds is valid. And second, the Deeds were already ratified
as BF Homes had accepted the benefits from said contracts when In the instant case, the acts of FBO Networks Management, Inc., as
it received full payment from SMPI of the purchase price for the receiver of BF Homes, undertaken through Orendain, including the
130 Italia II lots. The Deeds were also substantially performed sale of the 130 Italia II lots to SMPI in 1992 and 1993, are so far
considering that BF Homes had previously delivered to SMPI the presumed to have been regularly performed absent evidence to
TCTs for 110 out of the 130 lots, only refusing to deliver the TCTs the contrary. While BF Homes questioned the acts of
for the remaining 20 lots. Orendain/FBO Networks Management, Inc. as receiver before the
SEC, the SEC terminated the rehabilitation proceedings without
BF Homes cannot insist on the lack of authority of Orendain as definitively ruling on the same and recognized the transfer of
receiver to sign the Deeds of Absolute Sale for the 130 Italia II lots. jurisdiction over such subject matter to the Regional Trial Courts
While it is true the SEC revoked the appointment of Orendain as (RTC) with the passage of Republic Act No. 8799, otherwise known
rehabilitation receiver of BF Homes in 1989, the SEC thereafter as the Securities Regulation Code. There is no showing herein
immediately appointed FBO Networks Management, Inc., in whether BF Homes pursued before the RTC any case to nullify or
replacement as receiver. Orendain was the Chairman of FBO invalidate the alleged unauthorized or irregular acts of
Networks Management, Inc. Hence, when Orendain signed the Orendain/FBO Networks Management, Inc. as receiver.
Deeds of Absolute Sale for the 130 Italia II lots, he did so as
Moreover, even assuming for the sake of argument that [I]n our considered opinion, the doctrine of estoppel precludes
Orendain/FBO Networks Management, Inc. did act without or BISTRANCO from repudiating an obligation voluntarily assumed by
beyond his/its authority as receiver in entering into the contracts it, after having accepted benefits therefrom.' To countenance such
of sale of the 130 Italia II lots with SMPI, then the said contracts repudiation would be contrary to equity and would put a premium
were merely unenforceable and could be ratified, Article 1403(1) on fraud or misrepresentation, which this Court will not sanction.
of the Civil Code provides:
ARTICLE 1403. The following contracts are unenforceable, unless Furthermore, the averment of BF Homes of inadequacy of the
they are ratified purchase price for the 130 Italia II lots deserves scant
consideration. Section 3(p), Rule 131 of the Revised Rules of Court
(1) Those entered into in the name of another person by one who presumes that private transactions have been fair and regular. The
has been given no authority or legal representation, or who has only evidence submitted by BF Homes in support of its claim is the
acted beyond his powers[.] appraisal report which valued the lots at P3,500.00 and P3,000.00
As the OP observed, BF Homes ratified the Deeds of Absolute Sale per square meter. The appraisal report, however, does not
with SMPI by accepting full payment from SMPI of the purchase necessarily prove that the purchase price for the lots agreed upon
price for the 130 Italia II lots, and fully implementing the in the Deeds of Absolute Sale, averaged at P2,500.00 per square
transaction covered by the first two Deeds and partially meter, is grossly inadequate and disadvantageous to BF Homes.
implementing the third by delivering the TCTs for 110 of the 130 There are considerations for which sellers may agree to sell their
lots. property for less than the market value, such as the urgent financial
need of the seller, cash or immediate payment, and/or the high
Receiving full payment for the 130 Italia II lots from SMPI also number of properties purchased at the same time. In this case,
estops BF Homes from denying the authority of Orendain/FBO SMPI explained that it was granted a lower purchase price because
Networks Management, Inc. to enter into the Deeds of Absolute it bought the Italia II lots in volume, and BF Homes was unable to
Sale. The Court applies by analogy its declarations in Bisaya Land repudiate said explanation.
Transportation, Inc. v. Sanchez,61 which involved the acts of a
court-appointed receiver for an estate: Finally, as to the award of attorney's fees, Article 2208 of the Civil
Furthermore, it is clear that BISTRANCO received material benefits Code allows the recovery of attorney's fees and expenses of
from the contracts of agency of Sanchez, based upon the monthly litigation, other than judicial costs, even in the absence of
statements of income of BISTRANCO, upon which the commissions stipulation, "[w]here the defendant acted in gross and evident bad
of Sanchez were based, x x x. faith in refusing to satisfy the plaintiffs plainly valid, just and
demandable claim." SMPI obviously had a valid and demandable
x x x x claim against BF Homes, which unjustifiably and inexcusably
refused to comply with the mandate in Presidential Decree No. 957 encourage those with proper qualifications and excellent abilities
and undertaking in the Deeds of Absolute Sale to deliver the titles to join and remain in government service.3 Accordingly, public
to the subdivision lots upon complete payment for said properties. health workers (PHWs) were granted the following allowances and
The sudden refusal of BF Homes to deliver the last 20 TCTs, after benefits, among others:
having previously delivered the other 110 TCTs, constitutes bad
faith and justifies the award of attorney's fees in favor of SMPI, Section 20. Additional Compensation. - Notwithstanding Section 12
which was forced to litigate to enforce its rights. The amount of of Republic Act No. 6758, public health workers shall receive the
P100,000.00 awarded by the OP as attorney's fees is just and following allowances: hazard allowance, subsistence allowance,
reasonable under the circumstances. longevity pay, laundry allowance and remote assignment
WHEREFORE, premises considered, the Petition for Review allowance.
on Certiorari of San Miguel Properties, Inc. is GRANTED. The
Decision dated January 31, 2005 and Resolution dated August 9, Section 21. Hazard Allowance. - Public health workers in hospitals,
2005 of the Court of Appeals in CA-G.R. SP No. 83631 ordering the sanitaria, rural health units, main health centers, health infirmaries,
remand of the case to the Housing and Land Use Regulatory Board barangay health stations, clinics and other health-related
is REVERSED and SET ASIDE; and the Decision dated January 27, establishments located in difficult areas, strife-torn or embattled
2004 of the Office of the President in O.P. Case No. 03-E-203 areas, distressed or isolated stations, prisons camps, mental
is REINSTATED. hospitals, radiation exposed clinics, laboratories or disease-
infested areas or in areas declared under state of calamity or
SO ORDERED. emergency for the duration thereof which expose them to great
danger, contagion, radiation, volcanic activity/eruption,
G.R. No. 207145 July 28, 2015 occupational risks or perils to life as determined by the Secretary
of Health or the Head of the unit with the approval of the Secretary
GIL G. CAWAD, Petitioners, of Health, shall be compensated hazard allowances equivalent to
vs. at least twenty-five percent (25%) of the monthly basic salary of
FLORENCIO B. ABAD, Respondents. health workers receiving salary grade 19 and below, and five
percent (5%) for health workers with <="" b="">
On March 26, 1992, Republic Act (RA) No. 7305, otherwise known
as The Magna Carta of Public Health Workerswas signed into law in Section 22. Subsistence Allowance. - Public health workers who are
order to promote the social and economic well-being of health required to render service within the premises of hospitals,
workers, their living and working conditions and terms of sanitaria, health infirmaries, main health centers, rural health units
employment, to develop their skills and capabilities to be better and barangay health stations, or clinics, and other health-related
equipped to deliver health projects and programs, and to establishments in order to make their services available at any and
all times, shall be entitled to full subsistence allowance of three (3) xxxx
meals which may be computed in accordance with prevailing
circumstances as determined by the Secretary of Health in 7.1.1. Eligibility to Receive Hazard Pay.- All public health workers
consultation with the Management-Health Worker's Consultative covered under RA 7305 are eligible to receive hazard pay when the
Councils, as established under Section 33 of this Act: Provided, That nature of their work exposes them to high risk/low risk hazards for
representation and travel allowance shall be given to rural health at least fifty percent (50%) of their working hours as determined
physicians as enjoyed by municipal agriculturists, municipal and approved by the Secretary of Health or his authorized
planning and development officers and budget officers. representatives.
6.3. Longevity Pay.- A monthly longevity pay equivalent to five c. Those public health workers who are out of
percent (5%)of the present monthly basic pay shall be paid to station shall be entitled to per diems in place of
public health workers for every five (5) years of continuous, Subsistence Allowance. Subsistence Allowance may
efficient and meritorious services rendered as certified by the Head also be commuted.
of Agency/Local Chief Executives commencing after the approval of
the Act. (April 17, 1992) xxxx
7.2.3 Rates of Subsistence Allowance 7.0. Hazard Pay. - Hazard pay is an additional compensation for
performing hazardous duties and for enduring physical hardships
a. Subsistence allowance shall be implemented at in the course of performance of duties.
not less than Ph₱50.00 per day or Ph₱1,500.00 per
month as certified by head of agency. As a general compensation policy, and in line with Section 21 of R.
A. No. 7305, Hazard Pay may be granted to PHWs only if the nature
xxxx of the duties and responsibilities of their positions, their actual
services, and location of work expose them to great danger,
d. Part-time public health workers/consultants are occupational risks, perils of life, and physical hardships; and only
entitled to one-half (1/2)of the prescribed rates during periods of actual exposure to hazards and hardships.
received by full-time public health workers.6
xxxx
On July 28, 2008, the Fourteenth Congress issued Joint Resolution
No. 4, entitled Joint Resolution Authorizing the President of the 8.3 The Subsistence Allowance shall be ₱50for each day of actual
Philippines to Modify the Compensation and Position Classification full-time service, or ₱25for each day of actual part-time service.
System of Civilian Personnel and the Base Pay Schedule of Military
and Uniformed Personnel in the Government, and for other xxxx
Purposes, approved by then President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on
June 17,2009, which provided for certain amendments in the 9.0 Longevity Pay (LP)
Magna Carta and its IRR.
9.1 Pursuant to Section 23 of R.A. No. 7305, a PHW may be granted
On September 3, 2012, respondents DBM and CSC issued one of LP at 5% of his/her current monthly basic salary, in recognition of
the two assailed issuances, DBM-CSC Joint Circular No. 1, Series of every 5 years of continuous, efficient, and meritorious services
2012, to prescribe the rules on the grant of Step Increments due to rendered as PHW. The grant thereof is based on the following
meritorious performance and Step Increment due to length of criteria:
service.7 Specifically, it provided that "an official or employee
authorized to be granted Longevity Pay under an existing law is not 9.1.1 The PHW holds a position in the agency plantilla of regular
eligible for the grant of Step Increment due to length of positions; and
service."8 Shortly thereafter, on November29, 2012, respondents
DBM and DOH then circulated the other assailed issuance, DBM- 9.1.2 He/She has rendered at least satisfactory performance and
DOH Joint Circular No. 1, Series of 2012, the relevant provisions of has not been found guilty of any administrative or criminal case
which state: within all rating periods covered by the 5-year period.
In a letter9 dated January 23, 2013 addressed to respondents C) REQUIRED THAT LONGEVITY PAY BE GRANTED
Secretary of Budget and Management and Secretary of Health, ONLY TO PHWs WHO HOLD PLANTILLA AND
petitioners expressed their opposition to the Joint Circular cited REGULAR POSITIONS; AND
above on the ground that the same diminishes the benefits granted
by the Magna Carta to PHWs. D) MADE THE JOINT CIRCULAR EFFECTIVE ON
JANUARY 1, 2013, BARELY THREE (3) DAYS AFTER IT
Unsatisfied, petitioners, on May 30, 2013, filed the instant petition WAS PUBLISHED IN A NEWSPAPER OF GENERAL
raising the following issues: CIRCULATION ON DECEMBER 29, 2012, IN
VIOLATION OF THE RULES ON PUBLICATION.
I.
II.
WHETHER RESPONDENTS ENRIQUE T. ONA AND FLORENCIO B.
ABAD ACTED WITH GRAVE ABUSE OF DISCRETION AND VIOLATED WHETHER RESPONDENTS FRANCISCO T. DUQUE AND FLORENCIO
SUBSTANTIVE DUE PROCESS WHEN THEY ISSUED DBM-DOH JOINT B. ABAD ACTED WITH GRAVE ABUSE OF DISCRETION WHEN THEY
CIRCULAR NO. 1, S. 2012 WHICH: ISSUED DBM-CSC JOINT CIRCULAR NO. 1, S. 2012 DATED
SEPTEMBER 2, 2012 WHICH PROVIDED THAT AN OFFICIAL OR
A) MADE THE PAYMENT OF HAZARD PAY EMPLOYEE ENTITLED TO LONGEVITY PAY UNDER EXISTING LAW
DEPENDENT ON THE ACTUAL DAYS OF EXPOSURE SHALL NO LONGER BE GRANTED STEP INCREMENT DUE TO LENGTH
TO THE RISK INVOLVED; OF SERVICE.
IV.
WHETHER RESPONDENT ONA WAS REMISS IN IMPLEMENTING THE who are already being granted Longevity Pay. As a result,
MANDATE OF THE MAGNA CARTA WHEN HE DID NOT INCLUDE THE petitioners claim that the subject circulars are void for being an
MAGNA CARTA BENEFITS IN THE DEPARTMENT'S YEARLY BUDGET. undue exercise of legislative power by administrative bodies.
It is likewise beyond the territory of a writ of prohibition since SECTION 7.1.1. Eligibility to Receive Hazard Pay. - All public health
generally, the purpose of the same is to keep a lower court within workers covered under RA 7305 are eligible to receive hazard pay
the limits of its jurisdiction in order to maintain the administration when the nature of their work exposes them to high risk/low risk
of justice in orderly channels. It affords relief against usurpation of hazards for at least fifty percent (50%) of their working hours as
jurisdiction by an inferior court, or when, in the exercise of determined and approved by the Secretary of Health or his
jurisdiction, the inferior court transgresses the bounds prescribed authorized representatives.21
by the law, or where there is no adequate remedy available in the
ordinary course of law.20 Second, fixing the Subsistence Allowance at ₱50 for each day of
full-time service and ₱25 for part-time service was also merely a
Be that as it may, We proceed to discuss the substantive issues reiteration of the limits prescribed by the Revised IRR, validly issued
raised in the petition in order to finally resolve the doubt over the by the Secretary of Health pursuant to Section 3522 of RA No. 7305,
Joint Circulars' validity. For proper guidance, the pressing issue of the pertinent portions of which states:
whether or not the joint circulars regulating the salaries and
Section 7.2.3 Rates of Subsistence Allowance As can be gleaned from the aforequoted provision, petitioners
failed to show any real inconsistency in granting longevity pay to
a. Subsistence allowance shall be implemented at not less than PHWs holding regular plantilla positions. Not only are they based
Ph₱50.00 per day or Ph₱1,500.00 per month as certified by head on the same premise, but the intent of longevity pay, which is paid
of agency. to workers for every five (5) years of continuous, efficient and
meritorious services, necessarily coincides with that of
xxxx regularization. Thus, the assailed circular cannot be invalidated for
its issuance is consistent with, and germane to, the purposes of the
d. Part-time public health workers/consultants are entitled to one- law.
half (1/2)of the prescribed rates received by full-time public health
workers. Anent petitioners' contention that the DBM-DOH Joint Circular is
null and void for its failure to comply with Section 3523 of RA No.
Third, the condition imposed by the DBM-DOH Joint Circular 7305 providing that its implementing rules shall take effect thirty
granting longevity pay only to those PHWs holding regular plantilla (30) days after publication in a newspaper of general circulation, as
positions merely implements the qualification imposed by the well as its failure to file a copy of the same with the University of
Revised IRR which provides: the Philippines Law Center-Office of the National Administrative
Register (UP Law Center-ONAR), jurisprudence as well as the
6.3. Longevity Pay. - A monthly longevity pay equivalent to five circumstances of this case dictate otherwise.
percent (5%) of the present monthly basic pay shall be paid to
public health workers for every five (5) years of continuous, Indeed, publication, as a basic postulate of procedural due process,
efficient and meritorious services rendered as certified by the Head is required by law in order for administrative rules and regulations
of Agency/Local Chief Executives commencing after the approval of to be effective.24 There are, however, several exceptions, one of
the Act. (April 17, 1992) which are interpretative regulations which "need nothing further
than their bare issuance for they give no real consequence more
6.3.1. Criteria for Efficient and Meritorious Service A Public Worker than what the law itself has already prescribed."25 These
shall have: regulations need not be published for they add nothing to the law
and do not affect substantial rights of any person.26
a. At least a satisfactory performance rating within the rating
period. Thus, in Association of Southern Tagalog Electric Cooperatives, et.
al. v. Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC),27wherein several orders
b. Not been found guilty of any administrative or criminal case issued by the ERC were sought to be invalidated for lack of
within the rating period. publication and non-submission of copies thereof to the UP Law
Center - ONAR, it has been held that since they merely interpret RA of the Guidelines for Receiving and Publication of Rules and
No. 7832 and its IRR, particularly on the computation of the cost of Regulations Filed with the U.P. Law Center states:
purchased power, without modifying, amending or supplanting the
same, they cannot be rendered ineffective, to wit: 9. Rules and Regulations which need not be filed with the U.P. Law
Center, shall, among others, include but not be limited to, the
When the policy guidelines of the ERC directed the exclusion of following:
discounts extended by power suppliers in the computation of the
cost of purchased power, the guidelines merely affirmed the plain a. Those which are interpretative regulations and those merely
and unambiguous meaning of "cost" in Section 5, Rule IX of the IRR internal in nature, that is, regulating only the personnel of the
of R.A. No. 7832."Cost" is an item of outlay, and must therefore Administrative agency and not the public.
exclude discounts since these are "not amounts paid or charged for
the sale of electricity, but are reductions in rates. xxxx
xxxx Furthermore, the policy guidelines of the ERC did not create a new
obligation and impose a new duty, nor did it attach a new disability.
Thus, the policy guidelines of the ERC on the treatment of discounts As previously discussed, the policy guidelines merely interpret R.A.
extended by power suppliers "give no real consequence more than No. 7832 and its IRR, particularly on the computation of the cost of
what the law itself has already prescribed." Publication is not purchased power. The policy guidelines did not modify, amend or
necessary for the effectivity of the policy guidelines. supplant the IRR.
As interpretative regulations, the policy guidelines of the ERC on Similarly, in Republic v. Drugmaker's Laboratories, Inc.,28 the
the treatment of discounts extended by power suppliers are also validity of circulars issued by the Food and Drug Administration
not required to be filed with the U.P. Law Center in order to be (FDA) was upheld in spite of the non-compliance with the
effective. Section 4, Chapter 2, Book VII of the Administrative Code publication, prior hearing, and consultation requirements for they
of 1987 requires every rule adopted by an agency to be filed with merely implemented the provisions of Administrative Order No.
the U.P. Law Center to be effective. However, in Board of Trustees 67, entitled "Revised Rules and Regulations on Registration of
of the Government Service Insurance System v. Velasco, this Court Pharmaceutical Products" issued by the DOH, in the following wise:
pronounced that "not all rules and regulations adopted by every
government agency are to be filed with the UP Law Center." A careful scrutiny of the foregoing issuances would reveal that AO
Interpretative regulations and those merely internal in nature are 67, s. 1989 is actually the rule that originally introduced the BA/BE
not required to be filed with the U.P. Law Center. Paragraph 9 (a) testing requirement as a component of applications for the
issuance of CPRs covering certain pharmaceutical products. As
such, it is considered an administrative regulation - a legislative rule pay on the basis of PHW's status in the plantilla of regular positions
to be exact - issued by the Secretary of Health in consonance with were already prescribed and authorized by pre-existing law. There
the express authority granted to him by RA 3720 to implement the is really no new obligation or duty imposed by the subject circular
statutory mandate that all drugs and devices should first be for it merely reiterated those embodied in RA No. 7305 and its
registered with the FDA prior to their manufacture and sale. Revised IRR. The Joint Circular did not modify, amend nor supplant
Considering that neither party contested the validity of its issuance, the Revised IRR, the validity of which is undisputed. Consequently,
the Court deems that AO 67, s. 1989 complied with the whether it was duly published and filed with the UP Law Center -
requirements of prior hearing, notice, and publication pursuant to ONAR is necessarily immaterial to its validity because in view of the
the presumption of regularity accorded to the government in the pronouncements above, interpretative regulations, such as the
exercise of its official duties.42 DBM-DOH circular herein, need not be published nor filed with the
UP Law Center - ONAR in order to be effective. Neither is prior
On the other hand, Circular Nos. 1 and 8, s. 1997 cannot be hearing or consultation mandatory.
considered as administrative regulations because they do not: (a)
implement a primary legislation by providing the details thereof; Nevertheless, it bears stressing that in spite of the immateriality of
(b) interpret, clarify, or explain existing statutory regulations under the publication requirement in this case, and even assuming the
which the FDA operates; and/or (c) ascertain the existence of necessity of the same, its basic objective in informing the public of
certain facts or things upon which the enforcement of RA 3720 the contents of the law was sufficiently accomplished when the
depends. In fact, the only purpose of these circulars is for the FDA DBM-DOH Joint Circular was published in the Philippine Star, a
to administer and supervise the implementation of the provisions newspaper of general circulation, on December 29, 2012.29
of AO 67, s. 1989, including those covering the BA/BE testing
requirement, consistent with and pursuant to RA 3720.43 As to petitioners' allegation of grave abuse of discretion on the part
Therefore, the FDA has sufficient authority to issue the said of respondent DOH Secretary in failing to include the Magna Carta
circulars and since they would not affect the substantive rights of benefits in his department's yearly budget, the same is belied by
the parties that they seek to govern - as they are not, strictly the fact that petitioners themselves specifically provided in their
speaking, administrative regulations in the first place - no prior petition an account of the amounts allocated for the same in the
hearing, consultation, and publication are needed for their validity. years 2012 and 2013.30
In this case, the DBM-DOH Joint Circular in question gives no real Based on the foregoing, it must be recalled that administrative
consequence more than what the law itself had already prescribed. regulations, such as the DBM-DOH Joint Circular herein, enacted by
As previously discussed, the qualification of actual exposure to administrative agencies to implement and interpret the law they
danger for the PHW's entitlement to hazard pay, the rates of ₱50 are entrusted to enforce are entitled to great respect.31 They
and ₱25 subsistence allowance, and the entitlement to longevity partake of the nature of a statute and are just as binding as if they
have been written in the statute itself. As such, administrative Circular cannot be applied to the DBM-CSC Joint Circular insofar as
regulations have the force and effect of law and enjoy the the requirements on publication and submission with the UP Law
presumption of legality. Unless and until they are overcome by Center - ONAR are concerned. Thus, while it was well within the
sufficient evidence showing that they exceeded the bounds of the authority of the respondents to issue rules regulating the grant of
law,32 their validity and legality must be upheld. step increments as provided by RA No. 6758, otherwise known as
the Compensation and Position Classification Act of 1989, which
Thus, notwithstanding the contention that the Joint Resolution No. pertinently states:
4 promulgated by Congress cannot be a proper source of delegated
power, the subject Circular was nevertheless issued well within the Section 13. Pay Adjustments. - Paragraphs (b) and (c), Section 15 of
scope of authority granted to the respondents. The issue in this Presidential Decree No. 985 are hereby amended to read as
case is not whether the Joint Resolution No. 4 can become law and, follows:
consequently, authorize the issuance of the regulation in question,
but whether the circular can be struck down as invalid for being xxxx
tainted with grave abuse of discretion. Regardless, therefore, of the
validity or invalidity of Joint Resolution No. 4, the DBMDOH Joint (c) Step Increments- Effective January 1, 1990 step increments shall
Circular assailed herein cannot be said to have been arbitrarily or be granted based on merit and/or length of service in accordance
capriciously issued for being consistent with prior issuances duly with rules and regulations that will be promulgated jointly by the
promulgated pursuant to valid and binding law. DBM and the Civil Service Commission,
Distinction must be made, however, with respect to the DBM-CSC and while it was duly published in the Philippine Star, a newspaper
Joint Circular, the contested provision of which states: of general circulation, on September 15, 2012,33the DBM-CSC Joint
Circular remains unenforceable for the failure of respondents to
6.5 An official or employee authorized to be granted Longevity Pay file the same with the UP Law Center - ONAR.34 Moreover, insofar
under an existing law is not eligible for the grant of Step Increment as the DBM-DOH Joint Circular similarly withholds the Step
Due to Length of Service. Increment due to length of service from those who are already
being granted Longevity Pay, the same must likewise be declared
A review of RA No. 7305 and its Revised IRR reveals that the law unenforceable.[35
does not similarly impose such condition on the grant of longevity
pay to PHWs in the government service. As such, the DBM-CSC Note also that the DBM-DOH Joint Circular must further be
Joint Circular effectively created a new imposition which was not invalidated insofar as it lowers the hazard pay at rates below the
otherwise stipulated in the law it sought to interpret. minimum prescribed by Section 21 of RA No. 7305 and Section
Consequently, the same exception granted to the DBM-DOH Joint 7.1.5 (a) of its Revised IRR as follows:
SEC. 21. Hazard Allowance. - Public health worker in hospitals, least" used in both the law and the rules.36 Thus, the following rates
sanitaria, rural health units, main centers, health infirmaries, embodied in Section 7.2 of DBM-DOH Joint Circular must be struck
barangay health stations, clinics and other health-related down as invalid for being contrary to the mandate of RA No. 7305
establishments located in difficult areas, strife-torn or embattled and its Revised IRR:
areas, distresses or isolated stations, prisons camps, mental
hospitals, radiation-exposed clinics, laboratories or disease- 7.2.1 For PHWs whose positions are at SG-19 and below, Hazard
infested areas or in areas declared under state of calamity or Pay shall be based on the degree of exposure to high risk or low risk
emergency for the duration thereof which expose them to great hazards, as specified in sub-items 7 .1.1 and 7 .1.2 above, and the
danger, contagion, radiation, volcanic activity/eruption number of workdays of actual exposure over 22 workdays in a
occupational risks or perils to life as determined by the Secretary month, at rates not to exceed 25% of monthly basic salary. In case
of Health or the Head of the unit with the approval of the Secretary of exposure to both high risk and low risk hazards, the Hazard Pay
of Health, shall be compensated hazard allowance equivalent to at for the month shall be based on only one risk level, whichever is
least twenty-five percent (25%)of the monthly basic salary of more advantageous to the PHW.
health workers receiving salary grade 19 and below, and five
percent (5%) for health workers with salary grade 20 and above. 7.2.2 PHWs whose positions are at SG-20 and above may be
entitled to Hazard Pay at 5% of their monthly basic salaries for all
xxxx days of exposure to high risk and/or low risk hazards. However,
those exposed to high risk hazards for 12 or more days in a month
7.1.5. Rates of Hazard Pay may be entitled to a fixed amount of ₱4,989.75 per month.
a. Public health workers shall be compensated hazard allowances WHEREFORE, premises considered, the instant petition is PARTLY
equivalent to at least twenty five (25%)of the monthly basic salary GRANTED. The DBM-DOH Joint Circular, insofar as it lowers the
of health workers, receiving salary grade 19 and below, and five hazard pay at rates below the minimum prescribed by Section 21
percent (5%)for health workers with salary grade 20 and above. of RA No. 7305 and Section 7.1.5 (a) of its Revised IRR, is declared
This may be granted on a monthly, quarterly or annual basis. INVALID. The DBM-CSC Joint Circular, insofar as it provides that an
official or employee authorized to be granted Longevity Pay under
It is evident from the foregoing provisions that the rates of hazard an existing law is not eligible for the grant of Step Increment Due
pay must be at least25% of the basic monthly salary of PWHs to Length of Service, is declared UNENFORCEABLE. The validity,
receiving salary grade 19 and below, and 5% receiving salary grade however, of the DBM-DOH Joint Circular as to the qualification of
20 and above. As such, RA No. 7305 and its implementing rules actual exposure to danger for the PHW's entitlement to hazard pay,
noticeably prescribe the minimum rates of hazard pay due all PHWs the rates of ₱50 and ₱25 subsistence allowance, and the
in the government, as is clear in the self-explanatory phrase "at
entitlement to longevity pay on the basis of the PHW' s status in
the plantilla of regular positions, is UPHELD.
SO ORDERED.