The Supreme Court upheld the Sandiganbayan’s dismissal of graft and malversation charges against former Mexico, Pampanga Mayor Teddy Tumang and businessman William Colis. The Court found that the Office of the Ombudsman violated their right to a speedy disposition of cases due to inordinate delays in the preliminary investigation and filing of charges.
In Suarez Jr. y Banua v. People, the Supreme Court ruled that an accused is disqualified from plea bargaining for illegal sale of shabu if the crime involves 1.00 grams or above of the said dangerous drugs. However, failure to raise such disqualification in the pleadings before the trial and appellate courts, as well as the Supreme Court, may be deemed a waiver of such disqualification.
The Supreme Court found that Walter Manuel Prescot is a natural-born Philippine citizen, hence, he may not be legally deported. The Court found that the Oath of Allegiance executed by Prescott in 2008 when he re-acquired Philippine citizenship under Republic Act No. 9225 constitutes substantial compliance with the formal election requirements under Commonwealth Act No. 625. Further, his consistent and deliberate actions throughout his entire life evinced his loyalty, love, and fealty to the Philippines.
Prescott v. Bureau of Immigration [December 5, 2023] Read More »
In Calleja v. Executive Secretary, the Supreme Court addressed challenges to the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020. The Court upheld most provisions but struck down the proviso “which are not intended to cause death or serious physical harm” in Section 4, deeming it unconstitutional for being overbroad and infringing on freedom of expression.
Calleja vs. Executive Secretary [December 7, 2021] Read More »
In Sobrejuanite-Flores v. Pilando, Jr., the Supreme Court upheld the constitutionality of requiring psychologists seeking licensure without examination to complete 100 hours of professional education. This requirement ensures practitioners maintain updated knowledge, aligning with the Philippine Psychology Act’s standards for public safety and professional competence.
Sobrejuanite-Flores v. Pilando, Jr. [November 23, 2021] Read More »
In De Leon v. PLDT, the Supreme Court upheld PLDT’s redemption of preferred shares, ruling it lawful and compliant with the Constitution’s foreign ownership limits for public utilities. The Court also noted that the petitioner lacked sufficient interest to challenge PLDT’s corporate actions.
In Tiu v. Dizon, the Supreme Court held that Ruben Tiu’s detention remained lawful because the conditional pardon granted by former President Arroyo was incomplete without the necessary pardon papers. Additionally, Tiu’s classification as a penal colonist did not automatically reduce his sentence without presidential approval.
In In re Petition for Judicial Clemency of Manuel V. Romillo, Jr., the Supreme Court denied Judge Romillo’s request for reinstatement and retirement benefits, emphasizing its exclusive authority over judicial discipline and the inapplicability of executive clemency to judicial officials.
In re Petition for Judicial Clemency of Manuel V. Romillo, Jr. [December 8, 2008] Read More »
In People vs. Salle, Jr., the Supreme Court ruled that a conditional pardon cannot be granted to an accused while their appeal is pending, as the conviction is not yet final. This ensures the separation of powers, preventing executive interference in judicial matters.
In Torres vs. Gonzales, the Supreme Court ruled that a convict who violates the conditions of a conditional pardon can be rearrested and recommitted without a new court conviction. The President’s determination of such a violation is sufficient for recommitment, emphasizing the executive’s authority in pardon matters.
