Professional Documents
Culture Documents
UP Law Reviewer 2013 Constitutional Law 2 Bill of Rights PDF
UP Law Reviewer 2013 Constitutional Law 2 Bill of Rights PDF
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Police power prevails over contracts. [PNB v. Office of the Public Safety. – Agustin questions President Marcos’ Letter
President (1996)] of Instruction No. 229 compelling owners of motor vehicles
to install specific early warning devices to reduce road
Specific Coverage accidents.
(1) Public Health
(2) Public Morals Police power, public safety: The Court identified police
(3) Public Safety power as a dynamic agency, suitably vague and far from
(4) Public Welfare precisely defined, rooted in the conception that men in
organizing the state and imposing upon its government
Test of Reasonability limitations to safeguard constitutional rights did not
(1) Lawful subject intend to enable an individual citizen or a group of citizens
(2) Lawful means to obstruct unreasonably the enactment of such salutary
(3) Least restrictions of individual right measures calculated to communal peace, safety, good
order, and welfare. According to the Court, a heavy burden
The limit to police power is reasonability. The Court looks lies in the hands of the petitioner who questions the state’s
at the test of reasonability to decide whether it encroaches police power if it was clearly intended to promote public
on the right of an individual. So long as legitimate means safety. [Agustin v. Edu, (1979)]
can reasonably lead to create that end, it is reasonable.
[Morfe v. Mutuc (1968)]
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otherwise, the State’s power to legislate for the public REQUISITES FOR VALID EXERCISE
welfare might be seriously curtailed
(4) Taxes should be uniform and equitable [Sec. 28(1), Art. POLICE POWER
VI] Tests for Validity of Exercise of Police Power
(1) Lawful Subject: Interest of the general public (as
Judicial review for unconscionable and unjust tax amounting distinguished from a particular class required exercise).
to confiscation of property This means that the activity or property sought to be
The legislature has discretion to determine the nature, regulated affects the general welfare. [Taxicab
object, extent, coverage, and situs of taxation. But where a Operators v. Board of Transportation (1982)]
tax measure becomes so unconscionable and unjust as to (2) Lawful Means: Means employed are reasonably
amount to confiscation of property, courts will not hesitate necessary for the accomplishment of the purpose, and
to strike it down, for despite all its plenitude, the power to are not unduly oppressive. [Tablarin v. Gutierrez (1987)]
tax cannot override constitutional prescriptions. [Tan v. del (3) Least Restrictions of Individual Rights: It must also be
Rosario (1994)] evident that no other alternative for the
accomplishment of the purpose less intrusive of private
Specific Limitations rights can work. [White Light Corporation, et al v. City of
(1) Uniformity of taxation Manila (2009)]
General Rule: simply geographical uniformity, meaning it
operates with the same force and effect in every place EMINENT DOMAIN
where the subject of it is found Requisites
(1) Private property
Exception: Rule does not prohibit classification for (2) Genuine necessity - inherent/presumed in legislation,
purposes of taxation, provided the ff requisites are met: but when the power is delegated (e.g. local
(SNAGAE) government units), necessity must be proven.
(a) standards used are Substantial and Not Arbitrary (3) For public use - Court has adopted a broad definition of
(b) if the classification is Germane to achieve the legislative “public use,” following the U.S. trend
purpose (4) Payment of just compensation
(c) if that classification Applies to both present and future (5) Due process [Manapat v. CA (2007)]
conditions, other circumstances being equal
(d) applies Equally to members of the same class. [Pepsi TAXATION
Cola v. City of Butuan (1968)]. Equal protection clause: taxes should be uniform (persons
or things belonging to the same class shall be taxed at the
(2) Tax Exemptions same rate) and equitable (taxes should be apportioned
No law granting any tax exemption shall be passed among the people according to their ability to pay)
without the concurrence of a majority of all the
Members of Congress [Sec. 28 (4), Art. VI] Progressive system of taxation: The rate increases as the
tax base increases, with basis as social justice.
A corollary power but must be for a public purpose, Taxation as an instrument for a more equitable distribution
uniform and equitable and in conformity with the equal of wealth
protection clause
Delegated tax legislation: Congress may delegate law-
Tax exemptions are granted gratuitously and may be making authority when the Constitution itself specifically
revoked at will, except when it was granted for valuable authorizes it.
consideration
SIMILARITIES AND DIFFERENCES
May either be constitutional or statutory. SIMILARITIES (NACHURA)
(1) Inherent in the State (Exercised even without need of
If statutory, it has to have been passed by majority of all the express constitutional grant)
members of Congress [Sec. 28 (4), Art. VI] (2) Necessary and indispensable (State cannot be effective
without them)
Constitutional exemptions [sec. 28(3), Art. VI] (3) Method by which state interferes with private property
Requisite: Exclusive Use (4) Presuppose equivalent compensation
(a) Educational institutions (both profit and non-profit used (5) Exercised primarily by the legislature
actually, directly and exclusively for educational
purposes): Benefits redound to students, but only DIFFERENCES
applied to property taxes and not excise taxes Police Power Eminent Domain Taxation
(b) Charitable institutions: Religious and charitable
institutions give considerable assistance to the State in Compensation
the improvement of the morality of the people and the None Just None
care of the indigent and the handicapped (The altruistic compensation (The protection
(c) Religious property:Charitable Institutions, churches, and feeling that one (Full and fair given and public
parsonages or convents appurtenant thereto, mosques, has contributed equivalent of the improvements
non-profit cemeteries, and all lands, buildings and to the public property taken) instituted by the
improvements, actually, directly and exclusively used good required. State because of
for religious, charitable or educational purposes [NACHURA]) these taxes
[NACHURA])
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which the courts have the right to inquire into. [City of (1) Civil rights– rights that belong to an individual by virtue
Manila v. Chinese Community of Manila (1919)] of his citizenship in a state or community (e.g. rights to
property, marriage, freedom to contract, equal
When a statute or charter or by general law has conferred protection, etc.)
the right of eminent domain upon a private entity. [Tenorio (2) Political rights– rights that pertain to an individual’s
v. Manila Railroad Co (1912)] citizenship vis-à-vis the management of the
government (e.g. right of suffrage, right to petition
As Exercised By Congress As Exercised By Delegates government for redress, right to hold public office, etc.)
(3) Social and economic rights – rights which are intended
Extent of Power to insure the well-being and economic security of the
Pervasive and all- Can only be as broad as individual
encompassing the enabling law and the (4) Rights of the accused – civil rights intended for the
conferring authorities want protection of a person accused of any crime
it to be
BASES AND PURPOSE
Question of Necessity Bases:
Political question Justiciable question. RTC (1) Importance accorded to the dignity andworth of the
has to determine whether individual.
there is a genuine necessity (2) Protection against arbitrary actions of government and
for its exercise, as well as other members of society
what the property’s value
is. Purpose:
(1) To preserve democratic ideals
If not justiciable, there’s (2) To safeguard fundamental rights
grant of special authority (3) To promote the happiness of an individual
for special purpose
The Bill of Rights is designed to preserve the ideals of liberty,
equality and security "against the assaults of opportunism,
Re: Private Property
the expediency of the passing hour, the erosion of small
Delegate cannot encroachments, and the scorn and derision of those who
expropriate private have no patience with general principles." (Justice
property already devoted Cardozo, Nature of Judicial Process, 90-93; Tanada and
to public use Fernando, Constitution of the Philippines, 1952 ed., 71.)
[Philippine Blooming Mills Employees Organization v.
TAXATION Philippine Blooming Mills Co., Inc. (1973)]
(1) legislature (primarily)
(2) local legislative bodies [Sec. 5, Art. X] In the pithy language of Mr. Justice Robert Jackson, the
(3) President (to a limited extent, when granted delegated purpose of the Bill of Rights is to withdraw "certain
tariff powers under Sec. 28 (2) Art. VI subjects from the vicissitudes of political controversy, to
place them beyond the reach of majorities and officials,
and to establish them as legal principles to be applied by
the courts. One's rights to life, liberty and property, to free
speech, or free press, freedom of worship and assembly,
Private Acts and the Bill of and other fundamental rights may not be submitted to a
vote; they depend on the outcome of no elections." [West
Rights Virginia State Board of Education v. Barnette, 319 U.S. 624,
638]
IN GENERAL
It is a declaration and enumeration of a person's ACCOUNTABILITY
fundamental civil and political rights. It also Sec. 2, Art. III shall apply only against law officials or
imposessafeguards against violations by the government, people working as agents of government concerned about
by individuals, or by groups of individuals. being able to procure evidence. [People v. Marti (1991)]
“The Bill of Rights governs the relationship between the Sec. 3 of Art. XIII of the Constitution requires the State to
individual and the state. Its concern is not the relation give full protection to labor. We cannot be faithful to this
between individuals, between a private individual and duty if we give no protection to labor when the violator of
other individuals. What the Bill of Rights does is to declare its rights happens to be private parties like private
some forbidden zones in the private sphere inaccessible to employers. A private person does not have a better right
any power holder.” (Sponsorship Speech of Commissioner than the government to violate an employee's right to due
Bernas, Record of the Constitutional Commission, Vol. 1, p. process. To be sure, violation of the particular right of
674; July 17, 1986; Emphasis supplied) [People v. Marti employees to security of tenure comes almost always from
(1991)] their private employers. [Serrano v. NLRC (2000)]
It is generally self-executing.
Article III contains the chief protection for human rights but
the body of the Constitution guarantees other rights as
well.
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Equal Protection of the State. The rights and interests of the state in
these things are not simply political but also
proprietary in nature; and so the citizens may lawfully
CONCEPT be given preference over aliens in their use or
DEFINITION enjoyment.
Equal protection requires that all persons or things
similarly situated should be treated alike, both as to rights The Court upheld the Retail Trade Nationalization Law
conferred and responsibilities imposed. despite the objection that it violated the EP clause,
because there exists real and actual, positive and
Similar subjects, in other words, should not be treated fundamental differences between an alien and a national.
differently, so as to give undue favor to some and unjustly [Ichong v. Hernandez (1957)]
discriminate against others.
FILIPINO FEMALE DOMESTICS WORKING ABROAD
The guarantee means that no person or class of persons They are a class by themselves because of the special risks
shall be denied the same protection of laws which is to which their class was exposed. [Phil Association of
enjoyed by other persons or other classes in like Service Exporters v. Drilon (1988)]
circumstances. [City of Manila v. Laguio (2005) citing
Ichong v. Hernandez (1957)] LAND-BASED V. SEA-BASED FILIPINO OVERSEAS WORKERS
There is dissimilarity as to work environment, safety,
Scope danger to life and limb, and accessibility to social, civil and
Natural and juridical persons (the equal protection clause spiritual activities. [Conference of Maritime Manning
extends to artificial persons but only insofar as their Agencies v. POEA (1995)]
property is concerned.)
(1) A corporation as an artificial person is protected under QUALIFICATION FOR ELECTIVE OFFICE
the Bill of Rights against denial of due process, and it Disqualification from running in the same elective office
enjoys the equal protection of the law. [Smith, Bell and from which he retired of a retired elective
Co., v. Natividad (1919)] provincial/municipal official who has received payment of
(2) A corporation is also protected against unreasonable retirement benefits and who shall have been 65 y.o. at the
searches and seizures. [Stonehill v. Diokno (1967)] commencement of the term of office to which he seeks to
(3) It can only be proceeded against by due process of law, be elected is valid. [Dumlao v. Comelec (1980)]
and is protected against unlawful discrimination.
[Bache and Co. v. Ruiz (1971)] ELECTION OFFICIALS V. OTHER MUNICIPAL OFFICIALS
RA 8189 (Voters’ Registration Act) prohibits election
REQUISITES FOR VALID CLASSIFICATION officers from holding office in a particular city or
(1) It must rest on substantial distinctions which make real municipality for more than four (4) years. The classification
differences; is germane to the law since the risk sought to be
(2) It must be germane to the purpose of the law; addressedis cheating during elections. [De Guzman v.
(3) It must not be limited to existing conditions only. COMELEC (2000)]
An ordinance was declared void because it taxes only
centrifugal sugar produced and exported by the Ormoc OFFICE OF THE OMBUDSMAN
Sugar Company and none other, such that if a new Allowing the Ombudsman to start an investigation based
sugar central is established in Ormoc, it would not be on an anonymous letter does not violate EP clause. The
subject to the ordinance. [Ormoc Sugar Co. v. Treasurer Office of the Ombudsman is different from other
of Ormoc City (1968)] investigatory and prosecutory agencies of government
(4) Apply equally to all members of the same class [People because those subject to its jurisdiction are public officials
v. Cayat (1939)] who, through official pressure and influence, can quash,
delay or dismiss investigations against them. [Almonte v.
EXAMPLES OF VALID CLASSIFICATION Vasquez (1995)]
All classifications made by law are generally presumed to
be valid unless shown otherwise by petitioner. [Lacson v. PRINT V. BROADCAST MEDIA
Executive Secretary (1999)] There are substantial distinctions between the two to
warrant their different treatment under BP 881
ALIENS [Telecommunications and Broadcast Attorneys of the Phil v.
General Rule: The general rule is that a legislative act may COMELEC (1998)]
not validly classify the citizens of the State on the basis of
their origin, race or parentage. STANDARDS FOR JUDICIAL REVIEW
Serrano v. Gallant Maritime introduced a modification in
Exceptions: equal protection jurisprudence by using the three-level
(1) In times of great and imminent danger, such as a review used in due process cases. In effect, the level of
threatened invasion or war, such a classification is review when it comes to equal protection challenges may
permitted by the Constitution when the facts so warrant follow the following format:
(e.g. discriminatory legislation against Japanese (1) Whether the State was justified in making a
citizens during WWII). classification at all. (three-level scrutiny)
(2) The political rights of aliens do not enjoy the same (a) Rational basis test – the classification should bear a
protection as that of citizens. reasonable relation to the government’s purpose
(3) Statutes may validly limit to citizens exclusively the
enjoyment of rights or privileges connected with the
public domain, the public works, or the natural resources
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Notes:
Important when there is no plausible difference Searches and Seizures
between the disadvantaged class and those not
disadvantaged. CONCEPT
The right of the people to be secure in their persons,
Also important when the government attaches a houses, papers, and effects against unreasonable searches
morally irrelevant and negative significance to a and seizures of whatever nature and for any purpose shall
difference between the advantaged and the be inviolable, and no search warrant or warrant of arrest
disadvantaged. shall issue except upon probable cause to be determined
personally by the judge after examination under oath or
(b) Strict scrutiny test – in which a legislative affirmation of the complainant and the witnesses he may
classification which impermissibly interferes with produce, and particularly describing the place to be searched
the exercise of a fundamental right or operates to and the persons or things to be seized. [Art. III, Sec. 2]
the peculiar disadvantage of a suspect class is
presumed unconstitutional. The burden is upon
NATURE
the government to prove that the classification is Personal
necessary to achieve a compelling state interest
It may be invoked only by the person entitled to it.
and that it is the least restrictive means to protect
[Stonehill v. Diokno (1967)]
such interest. It is applied when the classification
has a “suspect basis”.
It may be waived expressly or impliedly only by the person
whose right is invaded, not by one who is not duly
Suspect classes – A classification that violates a authorized to effect such waiver. [People v. Damaso (1992)]
fundamental right, or prejudices a person accorded
special protection by the Constitution (Serrano v. Directed Against the Government and Its Agencies (State
Gallant). May therefore include a classification
Action Requirement)
based on income.
The right cannot be set up against acts committed by
private individuals.The right applies as a restraint directed
(Compare to the US definition: classes subject to
only against the government and its agencies tasked with
such a history of purposeful unequal treatment or the enforcement of the law. The protection cannot extend
relegated to such a position of political to acts committed by private individuals so as to bring
powerlessness as to command extraordinary
them within the ambit of alleged unlawful intrusion by the
protection from the majoritarian political process. government. [People v. Marti (1991); See also Yrasuegui v.
Income classification will not trigger strict scrutiny.)
Philippine Airlines (2008)]
(c) Intermediate scrutiny test – Court accepts the What constitutes a reasonable or unreasonable search and
articulated purpose of the legislation but it closely
seizure in any particular case is purely a judicial question,
scrutinizes the relationship between the determinable from a consideration of the circumstances
classification and the purpose based on a spectrum involved. [Valmonte v. De Villa (1989)]
of standards, by gauging the extent to which
constitutionally guaranteed rights depend upon the Objections to the warrant of arrest must be made before
affected individual interest. In which the
the accused enters his plea. [People v. Codilla (1993); People
government must show that the challenged
v. Robles (2000)]
classification serves an important state interest and
that the classification is at least substantially related
SCOPE
to serving that interest. Applicable to certain sensitive Natural Persons
but not suspect classes; certain important but not It protects all persons including aliens [Qua Chee Gan v.
fundamental interest.
Deportation Board (1963)]
(2) Whether the classification was valid. (4-pronged test of
Artificial Persons
valid classification in People v. Cayat)
Artificial persons are protected to a limited extent. [Bache
and Co. Inc v. Ruiz (1971)] The opening of their account
Alternative thought: BERNAS (and Prof. De Vera) opines that
books is not protected, by virtue of police and taxing
in Serrano v. Gallant Maritime, the Court seems to imply powers of the State.
that the Test of Valid Classification is to be applied
underthe Rational Basis standard. Note that in Serrano,
WARRANT REQUIREMENT
where the Court applied Strict Scrutiny, the Test of Valid PURPOSE
Classification was mentioned but not applied. Note
(1)Search Warrant- to gain evidence to convict
however that the Serrano levels of scrutiny have not been
(2) Warrant of Arrest- to acquire jurisdiction
reapplied as of this writing. This issue has not yet been
clarified.
Must refer to one specific offense. [Asian Surety v. Herrera,
(1973); Castro v. Pabalan (1976)]
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(c) Such written deposition is necessary in order that A John Doe search warrant is valid. There is nothing to
the Judge may be able to properly determine the prevent issue and service of warrant against a party whose
existence or non-existence of the probable cause, name is unknown. [People v. Veloso (1925)]
to hold liable for perjury the person giving it if it will
be found later that his declarations are false GENERAL WARRANT
One that:
(d) It is axiomatic that the examination must be (1) Does not describe with particularity the things subject
probing and exhaustive, not merely routine or pro- of the search and seizure; and
forma, if the claimed probable cause is to be (2) Where probable cause has not been properly
established. established. It is a void warrant. [Nolasco v. Paño
(1985)]
(e) The examining magistrate must not simply rehash
the contents of the affidavit but must make his own Exception to General Warrants: General descriptions will
inquiry on the intent and justification of the not invalidate the entire warrant if other items have been
application. [Roan v. Gonzales (1984)] particularly described. [Uy v. BIR (2000)]
(4) On the basis of their personal knowledge of the facts Conduct of the Search [Sec. 7, Rule 126, ROC]
they are testifying to. (1) In the presence of a lawful occupant thereof or any
member of his family, OR
(5) The warrant must describe particularly the place to be (2) If occupant or members of the family are absent, in the
searched and the persons or things to be seized. presence of 2 witnesses of
(a) sufficient age
Requirement is primarily meant to enable the law (b) discretion
enforcers serving the warrant to —(1) readily identify the (c) residing in the same locality
properties to be seized and thus prevent them from seizing (3) Force may be used in entering a dwelling if justified by
the wrong items; and (2) leave said peace officers with no Rule 126 ROC.
discretion regarding the articles to be seized and thus
prevent unreasonable searches and seizures. [People v. Tee Failure to comply with Sec. 7 Rule 126 invalidates the
(2003)] search. [People v. Gesmundo (1993)]
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What must be considered is the balancing of the Scope: Outer clothing for concealed weapon, etc.
individual’s right to privacy and the public’s interest in the
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Test: WON a reasonably prudent man in the circumstances search. On the other hand, when the vehicle is stopped
would be warranted in the belief that his safety of that of and subjected to an extensive search, it would be
others was in danger [Terry v. Ohio, 392 U.S.(1968)]. constitutionally permissible only If the officers conducting
the search had reasonable or probable cause to believe,
The police officer should properly introduce himself and before the search, that either the motorist is a law offender
make initial inquiries, approach and restrain a person who or they will find the instrumentality or evidence pertaining
manifests unusual and suspicious conduct, in order to to a crime in the vehicle to be searched[Caballes v. Court of
check the latter’s outer clothing for possibly concealed Appeals (2002); People v. Libnao (2003)].
weapons. The apprehending police officer must have a
genuine reason, in accordance with the police officer’s PROPERTIES SUBJECT TO SEIZURE
experience and the surrounding conditions, to warrant the General Rule: Only the articles particularly described in the
belief that the person to be held has weapons or contraband warrant may be seized.
concealed about him [People v. Sy Chua (2003)]. (1) Property subject of an offense
(2) Stolen or embezzled property and other proceeds or
VALID EXPRESS WAIVER MADE VOLUNTARILY AND INTELLIGENTLY fruits of an offense
Requisites: (3) Used or intended to be used as a means of committing
(1) Must appear that right exists; an offense [Sec. 2 Rule 126, ROC]
(2) Person involved had actual/ constructive knowledge of
the existence of such right; Where the warrant authorized only the seizure of shabu,
(3) Said person had an actual interest to relinquish the and not marijuana, the seizure of the latter was held
right; unlawful. [People v. Salanguit (2001)]
(4) Waiver is limited only to the arrest;
(5) Waiver does not extend to search made as an incident It is not necessary that the property to be searched or
thereto, or to any subsequent seizure of evidence found seized should be owned by the person against whom the
in the search. [People v. Peralta (2004)] warrant is issued; it is sufficient that the property is within
his control or possession [Burgos v. Chief of Staff (1984)].
It was ruled that the right to be secure from unreasonable
search may be waived. Waiver may be express or implied. COMPARISON OF PROCEDURES IN OBTAINING SEARCH WARRANTS
When one voluntarily submits to a search or consents to AND ARREST WARRANTS
have it made of his person / premises, he is precluded from When warrant of arrest may issue – (a) By the Regional Trial
later complaining [People v. Kagui Malasugui (1936)]. Court – Within ten (10) days from the filing of the
complaint or information, the judge shall personally
It is the State that has the burden of proving, by clear and evaluate the resolution of the prosecutor and its
convincing evidence, that the necessary consent was supporting evidence. He may immediately dismiss the case
obtained and that it was voluntarily and freely given if the evidence on record clearly fails to establish probable
[Caballes v. Court of Appeals (2002)]. cause. If he finds probable cause, he shall issue a warrant
of arrest, or a commitment order if the accused has already
When accused checked in his luggage as passenger of a been arrested pursuant to a warrant issued by the judge
plane, he agreed to the inspection of his luggage in who conducted the preliminary investigation or when the
accordance with customs laws and regulations, and thus complaint or information was filed pursuant to section 7 of
waived any objection to a warrantless search [People v. this Rule. In case of doubt on the existence of probable
Gatward (1997)]. cause, the judge may order the prosecutor to present
additional evidence [Note: This is not found in the procedure
CUSTOMS SEARCH for a search warrant.] within five (5) days from notice and
Searches of vessel and aircraft for violation of immigration the issue must be resolved by the court within thirty (30)
and smuggling laws [Papa v. Mago (1968)]. days from the filing of the complaint of information. [Rule
112, Sec. 6]
EXIGENT AND EMERGENCY CIRCUMSTANCES
The raid and seizure of firearms and ammunition at the
height of the 1989 coup-de-etat, was held valid, Requisites for issuing search warrant – A search warrant
considering the exigent and emergency situation. The shall not issue except upon probable cause in connection
military operatives had reasonable ground to believe that a with one specific offense to be determined personally by
crime was being committed, and they had no opportunity the judge after examination under oath or affirmation of
to apply for a search warrant from the courts because the the complainant and the witness he may produce, and
latter were closed. Under such urgency and exigency, a particularly describing the place to be searched and the
search warrant could be validly dispersed with [People v. de things to be seized which may be anywhere in the
Gracia (1994)]. Philippines. [Rule 126, Sec. 4]
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(1)Personally evaluate the report and the supporting of facts or circumstances that the person to be arrested
documents submitted by the fiscal regarding the has committed it;
existence of probable cause and, on the basis thereof,
issue a warrant of arrest; or Requisites:
(2)If he finds no probable cause, he may disregard the (1) Offense had JUST been committed;
fiscal's report and require the submission of supporting (2) Person making the arrest has probable cause to believe
affidavits of witnesses to aid him in arriving at a based on personal knowledge.
conclusion as to the existence of probable cause.
[Beltran v. Makasiar (1988)] Note: There must be a large measure of immediacy
between the time the offense is committed and the time of
Existence of Probable Cause: Such facts and circumstances the arrest. If there was an appreciable lapse of time
which would lead a reasonably discreet and prudent man between arrest and commission of crime, warrant of arrest
to believe that an offense has been committed by the must be secured. [Nachura]
person sought to be arrested. [Webb v. De Leon (1995)]
Warrantless arrest of accused for selling marijuana 2 days
Determination of probable cause personally by the judge after he escaped is invalid. [People v. Kimura (2004)]
as to warrant of arrest:
(1) On the basis of the witnesses’ personal knowledge of the The warrantless arrest only 3 hours after the killing was
facts they are testifying to. held valid since personal knowledge was established as to
(2) The arrest warrant must describe particularly the person the fact of death and facts indicating that the accused
to be seized. killed the victim. [People v. Gerente (1993)]
(a) By stating the name of the person to be arrested.
(b) If not known, then a “John Doe warrant” may be issued, Personal Knowledge: Experience of an officer which gives
with some descriptio persona that will enable the officer the idea that there is probable cause that the person
to identify the accused. caught is responsible. It has been ruled that “personal
knowledge of facts” in arrests without a warrant must be
John Doe Warrant: Warrants issued against 50 John Does, based on probable cause, which means an actual belief or
none of whom the witnesses could identify, were reasonable grounds of suspicion. [Cadua v. Court of
considered as “general warrants” and thus void. Appeals (1999)]
[Pangandaman v. Casar (1988)]
There is no personal knowledge when the commission of a
REQUISITES OF A VALID WARRANTLESS ARREST [RULE 113, SEC. 5, crime and identity of the accused were merely furnished by
RULES ON CRIMINAL PROCEDURE] an informant, or when the location of the firearm was given
by the wife of the accused. It is not enough that there is
(1) When in his presence, the person to be arrested has reasonable ground to believe that the person to be
committed, is actually committing, or is attempting to arrested has committed a crime. That a crime has actually
commit an offense; (in flagrante delicto) been committed is an essential precondition. [People v.
Burgos (1986)]
Rebellion is a continuing offense. Therefore a rebel may be
arrested without a warrant at any time of the day or the (3) When the person to be arrested is a prisoner who has
night as he is deemed to be in the act of committing escaped from a penal establishment or place where he
rebellion. [Umil v. Ramos (1991)] is serving final judgment or is temporarily confined
while his case is pending, or has escaped while being
Though kidnapping with serious illegal detention is transferred from one confinement to another
deemed a continuing crime, it can be considered as such
only when the deprivation of liberty is persistent and Additional Exceptions (Not in the Rules):
continuing from one place to another. [Parulan v. Dir of (1) When the right is voluntarily waived (estoppel).
Prisons (1968)] (2) Violent insanity.
Hot Pursuit: The arrest of the accused inside his house Appellant is estopped from questioning the illegality of the
following hot pursuit of the person who committed the arrest when he voluntarily submitted himself to the
offense in flagrante was held valid. [People v. De Lara jurisdiction of the court by entering a plea of not guilty and
(1994)] by participating in the trial. [People v. Salvatierra (1997)]
Buy-Bust: A buy-bust operation is a valid in flagrante Failure to raise the question of admissibility during the trial
arrest. The subsequent search of the person arrested and is waiver of the right to assert inadmissibility on appeal.
the premises within his immediate control is valid as an [Manalili v. CA (1997)]
incident to a lawful arrest. [People v. Hindoy (2001)]
Scope of Waiver: Waiver is limited to the illegal arrest. It does
Exception to buy-bust: Instead of arresting the suspect not extend to the search made as an incident thereto, or
after the sale in a buy-bust op, the officer returned to the the subsequent seizure of evidence allegedly found during
police headquarters and filed his report. It was only in the the search [People v. Peralta (2004]]
evening that he, without warrant, arrested the suspect at
his house where dried marijuana leaves were found and ADMINISTRATIVE ARRESTS
seized. This is unlawful arrest. [People v. Rodrigueza (1992)] General Rule: Only the judge has the power to issue a
warrant after the proper procedure has been duly taken.
(2) When an offense has just been committed and he has
probable cause to believe based on personal knowledge
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The censor serves therefore as the political, moral, social SUBSEQUENT PUNISHMENT
and artistic arbiter for the people, usually applying only his Concept:
own subjective standards in determining what is good and Freedom of speech includes freedom after speech. Without
what isnot. this assurance, the citizen would hesitate to speak for fear
he might be provoking the vengeance of the officials he
General rules: has criticized (chilling effect).
(1) Any system of prior restraints of expression comes to
the Court bearing a heavy presumption against its If criticism is not to be conditioned on the government’s
constitutionality, giving the government a heavy burden consent, then neither should it be subject to the
to show justification for the imposition of such government’s subsequent chastisement.
restraint. [New York v. United States (1971)]
(2)There need not be total suppression. Even restriction of Examples of Valid Subsequent Restraints:
circulation constitutes censorship. [Grosjean v. (1) Libel. Every defamatory imputation is presumed to be
American Press Co., 297 US 233] malicious. [Alonzo v. CA (1995)]
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Report of official conduct is privileged and covered by press SC ruled that for his act to be contemptuous, the danger
freedom must cause a serious imminent threat to the
Where the defamation is alleged to have been directed at a administration of justice. Itcannot be inferred that such act
group/class, it is essential that the statement must be so has "a dangerous tendency" to belittle the court or
sweeping or all-embracing as to apply to every individual undermine the administration of justice for the writer
in that group or class, or sufficiently specific so that each merely exercised his constitutional right to petition the
individual in the class or group can prove that the government for redress of a legitimate grievance.
defamatory statement specifically pointed to him, so that [Cabansag v. Fernandez (1957)]
he can bring the action separately, if need be. [Newsweek v.
IAC (1986)] Freedom of Expression and Obscenity
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parade may pass or the meeting may be held. [Primicias v. association, or group of persons concerned, be declared as
Fugoso (1948)] a terrorist and outlawed organization, association, or
group of persons by the said Regional Trial Court. [Sec. 17,
Absent any clear and present danger of a substantive evil, Human Security Act]
peaceable assembly in public places like streets or parks
cannot be denied. [J.B.L. Reyes v. Bagatsing (1983)] The right to associate is not absolute. [People v. Ferrer
(1972)]
The Calibrated Pre-emptive Response (CPR), insofar as it
would purport to differ from or be in lieu of maximum The right to self-organization shall not be denied to
tolerance, is NULL and VOID.
government employees. [Art. IX-B, Sec. 2(5)]
CPR serves no valid purpose if it means the same thing as
maximum tolerance (Sec. 3 [c] of B.P. 880), and is illegal if The right of the people, including those employed in the
it means something else. Accordingly, what is to be public and private sectors, to form unions, associations, or
followed is and should be that mandated by the law itself, societies for purposes not contrary to law shall not be
namely, maximum tolerance. abridged. [Art. III, Sec. 8]
B.P. 880 not unconstitutional It shall guarantee the rights of all workers to self-
B.P. No. 880 is not an absolute ban of public assemblies organization, collective bargaining and negotiations, and
but a restriction that simply regulates the time, place and peaceful concerted activities, including the right to strike in
manner of the assemblies. The law is not vague or accordance with law. They shall be entitled to security of
overbroad. There is, likewise, no prior restraint, since the tenure, humane conditions of work, and a living wage.
content of the speech is not relevant to the regulation. A They shall also participate in policy and decision-making
fair and impartial reading of B.P. No. 880 thus readily processes affecting their rights and benefits as may be
shows that it refers to all kinds of public assemblies that provided by law. [Art. XIII, Sec. 3(2), par. 2]
would use public places.
FACIAL CHALLENGES AND THE OVERBREADTH
Freedom Parks
DOCTRINE
B.P. 880 provides that every city and municipality must set
aside a freedom park within six months from the law’s
General Rule: A party can question the validity of a statute
effectivity in 1985. Section 15 of the law provides for an
only if, as applied to him, it is unconstitutional.
alternative forum through the creation of freedom parks
where no prior permit is needed for peaceful assembly and
Exception: Facial Challenges
petition at any time. Without such alternative forum, to
deny the permit would in effect be to deny the right to
FACIAL CHALLENGES
peaceably assemble.
A facial challenge is allowed to be made to a vague
statute and to one which is overbroad because of possible
Permit Application
“chilling effect” upon protected speech. The theory is that
There is a need to address the situation adverted to by
“[w]hen statutes regulate or proscribe speech and no
petitioners where mayors do not act on applications for a
readily apparent construction suggests itself as a vehicle
permit and when the police demand a permit and the
for rehabilitating the statutes in a single prosecution, the
rallyists could not produce one, the rally is immediately
transcendent value to all society of constitutionally
dispersed.
protected expression is deemed to justify allowing attacks
on overly broad statutes with no requirement that the
In such a situation, as a necessary consequence and part of
person making the attack demonstrate that his own
maximum tolerance, rallyists who can show the police an
conduct could not be regulated by a statute drawn with
application duly filed on a given date can, after two (2)
narrow specificity.”
days from said date, rally in accordance with their
application without the need to show a permit, the grant of
The possible harm to society in permitting some
the permit being then presumed under the law, and it will
unprotected speech to go unpunished is outweighed by
be the burden of the authorities to show that there has
the possibility that the protected speech of others may be
been a denial of the application, in which case the rally
deterred and perceived grievances left to fester because of
may be peacefully dispersed following the procedure of
possible inhibitory effects of overly broad statutes.
maximum tolerance prescribed by the law. [Bayan v.
Ermita (2006)]
This rationale does not apply to penal statutes. Criminal
statutes have general in terrorem effect resulting from
Freedom of Association and Self-Organization
their very existence, and, if facial challenge is allowed for
Proscription of Terrorist Organizations, Association, or Group this reason alone, the State may well be prevented from
of Persons. – Any organization, association, or group of enacting laws against socially harmful conduct. In the area
persons organized for the purpose of engaging in of criminal law, the law cannot take chances as in the area
terrorism, or which, although not organized for that of free speech.[Concurring Opinion of Justice Mendoza in
purpose, actually uses the acts to terrorize mentioned in Estrada v. Sandiganbayan (2001)]
this Act or to sow and create a condition of widespread and
extraordinary fear and panic among the populace in order OVERBREADTH DOCTRINE
to coerce the government to give in to an unlawful demand A governmental purpose may not be achieved by means
shall, upon application of the Department of Justice before which sweep unnecessarily broadly and thereby invade the
a competent Regional Trial Court, with due notice and area of protected freedoms.
opportunity to be heard given to the organization,
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A plain reading of PP 1017 shows that it is not primarily necessary to avoid the danger." In this case, an attempt to
directed to speech, rather it covers a spectrum of conduct. overthrow the Government by force is a sufficient evil for
It is a call upon the AFP to prevent or suppress all forms of Congress to prevent. It is the existence of the conspiracy
lawless violence. Facial challenge on the ground of which creates the danger. [Dennis v. US (1951)]
overbreadth is a very strong medicine. Petitioners did not
show that there is no instance when PP1017 may be valid. MILLER TEST (CCA-SL)
[David vs. Arroyo (2006)] To determine obscenity:
(1) Whether the average person, applying Contemporary
TESTS Community standards would find that the work, taken
DANGEROUS TENDENCY TEST as a whole, Appeals to prurient interest
If the words uttered create a dangerous tendency of an evil (2) Whether the work depicts or describes in a patently
which the State has the right to prevent, then such words offensive way, sexual conduct Specifically defined by
are punishable. [Cabansag v. Fernandez (1957)] the applicable state law
(3) Whether the work, taken as a whole, Lacks serious,
It is sufficient if the natural tendency and the probable literary, artistic, political, or scientific value [Miller v. CA
effect of the utterance were to bring about the substantive (1973) also applied in Fernando v. CA (2006)]
evil that the legislative body seeks to prevent. [People v.
Perez(1956)] O’ BRIEN TEST (C-GUN)
To determine whether Content- Based or Content-
CLEAR AND PRESENT DANGER TEST Neutral:
The question in every case is whether the words used are (1) If it is within the Constitutional power of the
used in such circumstances and are of such a nature as to Government
create a clear and present danger that they will bring (2) If it furthers an important or substantial Government
about the substantive evils that Congress has a right to interest
prevent. It is a question of proximity and degree. [Schenck (3) If the Government interest is Unrelated to the
v. United States (1919)] suppression of free expression
(4) If the incidental restriction is No greater than is
This rule requires that “the danger created must not only essential to the furtherance of that interest
be clear and present but also traceable to the ideas
expressed”. [Gonzales v. COMELEC (1969)] COMELEC banned the publication of surveys 15 and 7 days
prior to election concerning national and local candidates,
Note: This test has been adopted by the Philippine SC lock, respectively. The SC held that this regulation is content-
stock and barrel and is the test most applied to cases re: based because applying the 3rd prong of the O-Brien Test,
freedom of expression. it actually suppresses a whole class of expression, while
allowing the expression of opinion concerning the same
BALANCING OF INTEREST TEST subject matter by other opinion takers. The prohibition
When a particular conduct is regulated in the interest of may be for a limited time, but the curtailment of the right
public order, and the regulation results in an indirect, of expression is direct, absolute, and substantial. [SWS v.
conditional and partial abridgement of speech, the duty of COMELEC (2001)]
the courts is to determine which of the two conflicting
interests demands greater protection. [American STATE REGULATION OF DIFFERENT TYPES OF MASS
Communications Assoc. v. Douds, 339 US 282] MEDIA
(1) The ownership and management of mass media shall
The test is applied when two legitimate values not
be limited to citizens of the Philippines, or to corporations,
involving national security crimes compete.[Gonzales v.
cooperatives or associations, wholly-owned and managed
COMELEC (1969)]
by such citizens.
DIRECT INCITEMENT TEST
The Congress shall regulate or prohibit monopolies in
The constitutional guarantees of free speech and free
press do not permit a State to forbid or proscribe advocacy commercial mass media when the public interest so
requires. No combinations in restraint of trade or unfair
of the use of force or of law violation except where such
competition therein shall be allowed.
advocacy is directed to inciting or producing imminent
lawless action and is likely to incite or produce such action.
(2) The advertising industry is impressed with public
[Brandenburg v. Ohio (395 U.S. 444)]
interest, and shall be regulated by law for the protection of
consumers and the promotion of the general welfare.
Political discussion even among those opposed to the
present administration is within the protective clause of
freedom of speech and expression. The same cannot be Only Filipino citizens or corporations or associations at
least seventy per centum of the capital of which is owned
construed as subversive activities per se or as evidence of
by such citizens shall be allowed to engage in the
membership in a subversive organization. [Salonga v. Cruz
advertising industry.
Paño(1986)]
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The Court pronounced that the freedom of broadcast contract with these TV stations and radio stations at its
media is lesser in scope than the press because of their own expense. [UNIDO v. COMELEC (1981)]
pervasive presence in the lives of people and because of
their accessibility to children. The television camera is a powerful weapon which
intentionally or inadvertently can destroy an accused and
MOVIE CENSORSHIP his case in the eyes of the public.
When MTRCB rated the movie, “Kapit sa Patalim” as fit
“For Adults Only”, SC ruled that there was no grave abuse Considering the prejudice it poses to the defendant’s right
of discretion. to due process as well as to the fair and orderly
administration of justice, and considering further that the
Censorship is allowable only under the clearest proof of a freedom of the press and the right of the people to
clear and present danger of a substantive evil to public information may be served and satisfied by less distracting,
safety, morals, health or any other legitimate public degrading and prejudicial means, live radio and television
interest: coverage of the court proceedings shall not be allowed. No
(1) There should be no doubt what is feared may be traced video shots or photographs shall be permitted during the
to the expression complained of. trial proper.Video footages of court hearings for news
(2) Also, there must be reasonable apprehension about its purposes shall be limited and restricted. [Secretary of
imminence. It does not suffice that the danger is only Justice v. Sandiganbayan (2001)]
probable. [Gonzales v. Kalaw-Katigbak (1985)]
RADIO CENSORSHIP
Limited intrusion into a person’s privacy is permissible The SC does not uphold claim that Far Eastern had no
when that person is a public figure and the information right to require the submission of the manuscript. It is the
sought to be published is of a public character. duty of Far Eastern to require the submission of a
manuscript as a requirement in broadcasting speeches.
What is protected is the right to be free from unwarranted Besides, laws provide for such actions:
publicity, from the wrongful publicizing of the private
affairs of an individual which are outside the realm of Act 8130. Franchise for Far Eastern; radio to be open to the
public concern. [Ayer Productions v. Capulong, supra] general public but subject to regulations
TELEVISION CENSORSHIP Comm. Act 98. Sec. of Interior and/or the Radio Board is
P.D. 1986 gave MTRCB the power to screen, review and empowered to censor what is considered “neither moral,
examine all television programs. educational or entertaining, and prejudicial to public
interest.” The Board can forfeit the license of a
By the clear terms of the law, the Board has the power to broadcasting station.
“approve, delete, or prohibit the exhibition and/or
television broadcasts of television programs. The law also Sec. of the Interior, Dept. Order 13. Requires submission of
directs the Board to apply contemporary Filipino culture daily reports to Sec. of Interior/Radio Board re: programs
values as standard to determine those which are before airing. For speeches, a manuscript or short gist
objectionable for being immoral, indecent, contrary to law must be submitted. [Santiago v. Far Eastern Broadcasting
and/or good customs injurious to the prestige of the (1941)]
Republic of the Philippines and its people, or with a
dangerous tendency to encourage the commission of a Strict rules have also been allowed for radio because of its
violence or of a wrong or a crime. pervasive quality and because of the interest in the
protection of children. [FCC v. Pacifica Foundation (1978)]
The law gives the Board the power to screen, review and
examine ALL “television programs” whether religious, COMMERCIAL SPEECH
public affairs, news documentary, etc. (Ubilex non Commercial speech is unprotected speech. Commercial
distinguit nec distinguere de bemos-when the law does not advertising in the U.S. has been accorded First
make any exception, courts may not except something Amendment protection but not in the same level of
therefrom). [Iglesia ni Cristo v. CA (1996)] protection given to political speech. One case set down the
requirements for protection of commercial speech:
Also, notwithstanding the fact that freedom of religion has (1) speech must not be false, misleading or proposing an
been accorded a preferred status, Iglesiani Cristo’s illegal activity;
program is still not exempt from MTRCB’s power to review. (2) government interest sought to be served by regulation
Freedom of expression and of the press has not been must be substantial;
declared of preferred status. [MTRCB v. ABS-CBN (2005)] (3) the regulation must advance government interest; and
(4) the regulation must not be overbroad. [Bernas]
On the program of Dating Daan, Soriano made crude
remarks like “lihitimong anak ng demonyo, sinungaling, PRIVATE V. GOVERNMENT SPEECH
etc.” MTRCB preventively suspended him and his show. Parliamentary immunity guarantees the members the
SC held that the State has a compelling interest to protect freedom of expression without fear of being made
the minds of the children who are exposed to such responsible in criminal or civil actions before courts or
materials. [Soriano v. Laguardia (2009)] forum outside of Congress. But this does not protect them
from responsibility from the legislative body. The members
The SC could not compel TV stations and radio stations, may nevertheless be questioned in Congress itself.
being indispensable parties, to give UNIDO free air time as
they were not impleaded in this case. UNIDO must seek a For unparliamentary conduct, members of the Congress
have been, or could be censured, committed to prison,
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even expelled by the votes of their colleagues. [Osmeña v. charitable, or educational purposes shall be exempt from
Pendatun (1960)] taxation. [Art. VI, Sec. 28 (3)]
Freedom of Religion The government promotes the full growth of the faculties
of every child. For this purpose, the government will
establish, whenever possible:
No law shall be made respecting an establishment of (1) Schools in every barrio, municipality and city where
religion; or prohibiting the free exercise thereof. The free optional religious instruction shall be taught as part of
exercise and enjoyment of religious profession and the curriculum at the option of the parent or guardian.
worship, without discrimination or preference, shall forever xxx [Art. 359, Civil Code]
be allowed. No religious test shall be required for the
exercise of civil or political rights. [Art. III, Sec. 5] (4) Public aid to religion
No public money or property shall be appropriated,
NON-ESTABLISHMENT CLAUSE applied, paid, or employed, directly or indirectly, for the
CONCEPT use, benefit, or support of any sect, church, denomination,
The clause prohibits excessive government entanglement sectarian institution, or system of religion, or of any priest,
with, endorsement or disapproval of religion [Victoriano v. preacher, minister, other religious teacher, or dignitary as
Elizalde Rope Workers Union (1974); Lynch v. Donnelly, 465 such, except when such priest, preacher, minister, or
US 668 (1984) O'Connor, J., concurring); Allegheny County v. dignitary is assigned to the armed forces, or to any penal
Greater Pittsburg ACLU (1989)] institution, or government orphanage or leprosarium.[Art. VI,
Sec. 29(2)]
BASIS
Rooted in the separation of Church and State [Sec. 2(5),
Jurisprudence
Art. IX-C; Sec. 5(2), Sec. 29(2) Art. VI, 1987 Consti]
Religious activities with secular purpose/character.—
Postage stamps depicting Philippines as the site of a
ACTS NOT PERMITTED BY NON-ESTABLISHMENT CLAUSE
significant religious event – promotes Philippine tourism
(1) Prayer and Bible-reading in public schools [Engel v.
[Aglipay vs. Ruiz, (1937)]
Vitale (1967); Abington School District v. Schemp (1963)]
(2) Financial subsidy for parochial schools[Lemon vs.
Government sponsorship of town fiestas. – has secular
Kurtzman (1971)]
character [Garces vs. Estenzo (1981)]
(3) Religious displays in public spaces: Display of granite
monument of 10 commandments in front of a
Book lending program for students in parochial schools. –
courthouse is unconstitutional for being unmistakably
benefit to parents and students [Board of Education vs.
non-secular. [Glassroth vs. Moore, 335 F.3d 1282 (11th
Allen, 392 U.S. 236]
Cir. 2003)]
(4) Mandatory religious subjects or prohibition of secular
Display of crèche in a secular setting – depicts origins of
subjects (evolution) in schools [Epperson vs. Arkansas
the holiday [Lynch vs. Donnely (1984)]
(1968)]
(5) Mandatory bible reading in school (a form of preference
Financial support for secular academic facilities(i.e library
for belief over non-belief) [School District vs. Schempp
and science center) in parochial schools – has secular use
(1963)]
[Tilton vs. Richardson (403 U.S. 672)]
(6) Word “God” in the Pledge of Allegiance: religious vs
atheist students [Newdow vs. US (2003)]
Exemption from zoning requirements to accommodate
unique architectural features of religious buildings i.e
ACTS PERMITTED BY THE ESTABLISHMENT CLAUSE
Mormon’s tall pointed steeple [Martin vs. Corporation of the
Constitutionally created
Presiding Bishop (434 Mass. 141)]
(1) Tax exemption
Charitable institutions, churches and personages or FREE EXERCISE CLAUSE
convents appurtenant thereto, mosques, non-profit DUAL ASPECT
cemeteries, and all lands, buildings, and improvements, (1) Freedom to believe - absolute
actually, directly, and exclusively used for religious, (2) Freedom to act on one’s belief – subject to regulation
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CONSCIENTIOUS OBJECTOR
Ground for exemption from compulsory military service;
LAWS AND ACTS JUSTIFIED UNDER FREE EXERCISE CLAUSE expanded version provides exemption even to those who
(1) Exemption from flag salute in school [Ebralinag vs. object war based on non-religious beliefs i.e. non-theist
Division Superintendent of Schools of Cebu (1993)]
(2) Freedom to propagate religious doctrines Criteria:
The power to tax the exercise of the privilege is the (1) There must be belief in God or a parallel belief
power to control or suppress its enjoyment [American occupying a central place in the believer’s life
Bible Society vs. City of Manila (1957)] (2) Religion must involve a moral code transcending
(3) Exemption from union shop individual belief; cannot be purely subjective
Congress acted merely to relieve persons of the burden (3) Demonstrable sincerity in belief must be shown, but
imposed by union security agreements. court cannot inquire into its truth or reasonableness
(4) Non-disqualification of religious leaders from local [United States v. Seeger, 380 U.S. 163 (1965)]
government office [Pamil v. Teleron (1978)] (4) There must be some associational ties. [Estrada v.
Escritor (2003)]
Dean Pangalangan: There should be no distinction
between ordinary believer and the Pope; if the former can
hold office, why not the latter.
(5) Working hours from 7:30am to 3:30pm without break Liberty of Abode and
during Ramadan [Re: Request of Muslim Employees in
the Different Courts of Iligan City (2005)] Freedom of Movement
(6) Exemption from administrative charge on immorality The liberty of abode and of changing the same within the
Cohabiting with a married man with church sanction limits prescribed by law shall not be impaired except upon
evidenced by a document of “Declaration of Pledging lawful order of the court. Neither shall the right to travel be
Faithfulness” [Estrada v. Escritor (2003)] impaired except in the interest of national security, public
safety or public health, as may be provided by law. [Art. III,
BENEVOLENT NEUTRALITY DOCTRINE Sec. 6]
Gives room for accommodating religion, holding that the
wall is instead meant to protect the church from the state.
"Liberty" as understood in democracies, is not license; it is
It allows interaction between the church and state, but is "Liberty regulated by law."
strict re: state action, which would threaten the integrity of
religious commitment.
LIMITATIONS
WHO MAY IMPAIR AND WHEN RIGHTS MAY BE CURTAILED
The breach in the wall between church and state is
Liberty of abode
allowed in order to uphold religious liberty, which is the Who: courts (lawful order)
integral purpose of the religion clauses. The purpose of When:within limits prescribed by law
accommodation is to remove the burden on a person’s
exercise of his religion. The executive of a municipality does not have the right to
force citizens of the Philippine Islands to change their
Although morality contemplated in laws is secular,
domicile from one locality to another. [Villavicencio vs.
benevolent neutrality could allow for accommodation of Lukban (1919)]
morality based on religion, provided it does not offend
compelling state interests. [Estrada v. Escritor (2003)] Right to travel
Who: courts (lawful order) or by the appropriate executive
TESTS
officer.
CLEAR AND PRESENT DANGER
Used for religious speech
When: in the interest of national security (Human Security
Act), public safety or public health (quarantine)
In orderto justify restraint the court must determine
whether the expression presets a clear and present danger
Relocation of Manguinaes, a nomadic people, is a proper
ofany substantive evil, which the state has a right restraint to their liberty. It is for their advancement in
toprevent. [American Bible Society v City of Manila (1957) civilization and so that material prosperity may be assured.
citing Tañada and Fernando on the Constitution of the
[Rubi vs. Provincial Board (1919)]
Philippines, Vol. 1, 4th ed., p. 297]
Restraint on right to travel of accused on bail is allowed to
BENEVOLENT NEUTRALITY-COMPELLING STATE INTEREST
avoid the possibility of losing jurisdiction if accused travels
Under the Benevolent Neutrality doctrine, this is the proper abroad. [Manotok vs. CA (1986)]
test where conduct arising from religious belief is involved.
(1) Has the gov’t action created a burden on the free RIGHT TO TRAVEL
exercise? Court must look into sincerity (but not truth) WATCH LIST ORDER
of belief.
Issued against accused in criminal cases (irrespective of
(2) Is there a compelling state interest to justify the nationality in RTC or below), any person with pending case
infringement?
in DOJ
(3) Are the means to achieve the legitimate state objective
the least intrusive? [Escritor, supra]
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Scope: All statutes [includes those of local application and The limitations recognized to the right of information are:
private laws], presidential decreesand executive orders by (1) National security matter including state secrets
President acting under power either directly conferred by regarding military and diplomatic matters, inter-
the Constitution or validly delegated by the legislature, government exchanges prior to the conclusion of
and administrative rules and regulations for implanting treaties and executive agreements.
existing laws, charter of a city, circulars by Monetary Board (2) Trade secrets and banking transactions
Internal regulations and letter of instructions concerning (3) Criminal Matters
guidelines for subordinates and not the public are not (4) Other confidential matters. [Neri v. Senate (2008) citing
included Chavez v. President Commission on Good Government]
Effectivity: Fifteen days after publication unless a different DIPLOMATIC NEGOTIATIONS
effectivity date is fixed by the legislature [Tañada v. Tuvera Diplomatic secrets (Diplomatic Negotiations Privilege):
(1986)] Secrecy of negotiations with foreign countries is not
violative of the right to information. Diplomacy has a
ACCESS TO COURT RECORDS confidential nature. While the full text [of the JPEPA] may
SECTION 1. Court personnel shall not disclose to any not be kept perpetually confidential, it is in line with the
unauthorized person any confidential information acquired public interest that the offers exchanged during
by them while employed in the judiciary, whether such negotiations continue to be privileged information.
information came from authorized or unauthorized Furthermore, the information sought includes docs
sources. produced and communicated by a party external to the
PHL gov’t. However, such privilege is merely presumptive,
Confidential information means information not yet made and will not apply to all cases. [Akbayan v. Aquino (2008)]
a matter of public record relating to pending cases, as well
as information not yet made public concerning the work of COURT HEARINGS
any justice or judge relating to pending cases, including Right of accused over right to public information:
notes, drafts, research papers, internal discussions, With the possibility of losing not only the precious liberty
internal memoranda, records of internal deliberations and but also the very life of an accused, it behooves all to make
similar papers. absolutely certain that an accused receives a verdict solely
on the basis of a just and dispassionate judgment, a verdict
The notes, drafts, research papers, internal discussions, that would come only after the presentation of credible
internal memoranda, records of internal deliberations and evidence testified to by unbiased witnesses unswayed by
similar papers that a justice or judge uses in preparing a any kind of pressure, whether open or subtle, in
decision, resolution or order shall remain confidential even proceedings that are devoid of histrionics that might
after the decision, resolution or order is made public. detract from its basic aim to ferret veritable facts free from
[Canon II Confidentiality Code of Conduct for Court improper influence, and decreed by a judge with an
Personnel (AM No. 03-06-13-SC)] unprejudiced mind unbridled by running emotions or
passions. [Re: Request for Live Radio-TV Coverage of the
Decisions are matters of public concern and interest. Trial in the Sandiganbayan of the Plunder Cases against
former President Joseph Ejercito Estrada, Secretary of Justice
Pleadings and other documents filed by parties to a case Hernando Perez v. Joseph Ejercito Estrada, A.M. No. 00-1-4-
need not be matters of public concern or interest. They are 03-SC, June 29, 2001]
filed for the purpose of establishing the basis upon which
the court may issue an order or a judgment affecting their
rights and interest.
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expropriated per current tax declaration. [Biglang-Awa v. (4) Property must be devoted to public use or otherwise
Judge Bacalla (2000); Bardillon v. Barangay Masili of informally appropriated or injuriously affected
Calamba, Laguna (2003)] (5) Utilization of the property must be in such a way as to
oust the owner and deprive him of beneficial enjoyment
SCOPE AND LIMITATIONS of the property. [Republic v. Castellvi (1974)]
All Private Property capable of ownership may be
expropriated, except money and choses in action. Even DUE PROCESS
services may be subject to eminent domain. [Republic v. Hearing or procedure for determination of propriety of the
PLDT (1969)] expropriation or the reasonableness of the compensation
must be provided. [Belen v. CA (1991)]
Exercise of right to eminent domain is strictly construed
against the State or its agent because such right is EXPANSIVE CONCEPT OF “PUBLIC USE”
necessarily in derogation of private rights. [Jesus is Lord The idea that "public use" means "use by the public" has
Christian School Foundation v. Municipality of Pasig (2005)] been discarded. At present, whatever may be beneficially
employed for the general welfare satisfies the requirement
NECESSITY of public use. [Heirs of Juancho Ardona vs. Reyes (1983)]
The foundation of the right to exercise eminent domain is
genuine necessity and that necessity must be of public That only a few benefits from the expropriation does not
character. Government may not capriciously or arbitrarily diminish its public-use character, inasmuch as pubic use
choose which private property should be expropriated. now includes the broader notion of indirect public benefit or
[Lagcao v. Judge Labra (2004)] advantage [Filstream International vs. CA (1998)]
Congress - political question Private bus firms, taxicab fleets, roadside restaurants, and
other private businesses using public streets and highways
Delegate do not diminish in the least bit the public character of
(a) Grant of special authority for special purpose- political expropriations for roads and streets. The lease of store
question spaces in underpasses of streets built on expropriated land
(b) Grant of general authority- justiciable question [City of does not make the taking for a private purpose. Airports
Manila v. Chinese Community of Manila (1919)] and piers catering exclusively to private airlines and
shipping companies are still for public use. The
When the power is exercised by the legislature, the expropriation of private land for slum clearance and urban
question of necessity is generally a political question. development is for a public purpose even if the developed
[Municipality of Meycauyan, Bulacan v. Intermediate area is later sold to private homeowners, commercial firms,
Appellate Court (1988)] entertainment and service companies, and other private
concerns. [Heirs of Ardona vs. Reyes (1983)]
The RTC has the power to inquire into the legality of the
exercise of the right of eminent domain and to determine JUST COMPENSATION
whether there is a genuine necessity for it. [Bardillon v. It is the just and complete equivalent of the loss which the
Barangay Masili of Calamba, Laguna (2003)] owner of the thing expropriated has to suffer by reason of
the expropriation.
PRIVATE PROPERTY
Private property already devoted to public use cannot be Full and fair equivalent of the property taken; it is the fair
expropriated by a delegate of legislature acting under a market value of the property. [Province of Tayabas vs. Perez
general grant of authority. [City of Manila v. Chinese (1938)]
Community (1919)]
DETERMINATION
Generally, all private property capable of ownership may Basis:
be expropriated, except money and chooses in action. Fair Market Value
[Republic v. PLDT (1969)] Price fixed by a buyer desirous but not compelled to buy
and a seller willing but not compelled to sell.
A chose in action is a proprietary right in personam, such as
debts owned by another person, a share in a joint-stock Must includeconsequential damages (damages to other
company, or a claim for damages in tort; it is the right to interest of the owner attributable to the expropriation) and
bring an action to recover a debt, money or thing [Black’s deduct consequential benefits (increase of value of other
Law Dictionary] interests attributable to new use of the former property).
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Presidential Decrees merely serve as guide/factors for the beneficiary. [Sta. Rosa Realty & Development Corp. v. Court
courts in determining just compensation [EPZA vs. Dulay, of Appeals (2001)]
148 SCRA 305]
Private property shall not be taken for public use without
Findings of court appointed commissioners regarding the just compensation. [Art. III, Sec. 9]
determination of just compensation are not binding to
courts [Republic v. Santos (1986); Republic (MECS) v. IAC
(1990)] The State may, in the interest of national welfare or
defense, establish and operate vital industries and, upon
The court may substitute its own estimate of the value of payment of just compensation, transfer to public
the property only for valid reasons: (a) the commissioners ownership utilities and other private enterprises to be
have applied illegal principles to the evidence submitted to operated by the government. [Art. XII, Sec. 18]
them; (b) they have disregarded a clear preponderance of
evidence; or (c) where the amount allowed is either grossly The State shall, by law, undertake an agrarian reform
inadequate or excessive. [National Power Corporation v. De program founded on the right of farmers and regular
la Cruz (2007)] farmworkers who are landless, to own directly or collectively
the lands they till or, in the case of other farmworkers, to
When determined receive a just share of the fruits thereof.
General: At the time of the filing of the case
To this end, the State shall encourage and undertake the
Exception: If the value of the property increased because of just distribution of all agricultural lands, subject to such
the use to which the expropriator has put it, the value is priorities and reasonable retention limits as the Congress
that of the time of the taking. [NAPOCOR v. CA (1996)] may prescribe, taking into account ecological,
developmental, or equity considerations, and subject to the
Legal interest: 6%, time when payment is due to actual payment of just compensation.
payment
In determining retention limits, the State shall respect the
EFFECT OF DELAY right of small landowners. The State shall further provide
Just compensation means not only the correct amount to incentives for voluntary land-sharing. [Art. XIII, Sec. 4]
be paid to the owner of the land but also payment within a
reasonable time from its taking [Eslaban v. De Onorio
(2001)] The State shall, by law, and for the common good,
undertake, in cooperation with the private sector, a
General rule on delay of payment: continuing program of urban land reform and housing
For non-payement, the remedy is the demand of payment which will make available at affordable cost, decent housing
of the fair market value of the property and not the and basic services to under-privileged and homeless citizens
recovery of possession of the expropriated lots. [Republic of in urban centers and resettlement areas.
the Philippines v. Court of Appeals (2002); Reyes v. National
Housing Authority (2003)] It shall also promote adequate employment opportunities
to such citizens. In the implementation of such program
Exception: the State shall respect the rights of small property owners.
When the government fails to pay just compensation [Art. XIII, Sec. 9]
within five years from the finality of the judgment in the
expropriation proceedings, the owners concerned shall The National assembly may authorize, upon payment of
have the right to recover possession of their property. just compensation, the expropriation of private lands to be
[Republic of the Philippines v. Vicente Lim (2005)] subdivided into small lots and conveyed at cost to
deserving citizens. [Art. XIV, Sec. 13]
ABANDONMENT OF INTENDED USE AND RIGHT OF
REPURCHASE
If the expropriator (government) does not use the property
for a public purpose, the property reverts to the owner in fee
simple. [Heirs of Moreno vs. Mactan-Cebu International Contracts Clause
Airport (2005)]
No law impairing the obligation of contracts shall be
MISCELLANEOUS APPLICATION
passed. [Art. III, Sec. 10]
“TAKING” UNDER SOCIAL JUSTICE CLAUSE
Agrarian Reform (Art. XIII, Sec. 4):This provision is an
exercise of the police power of the State through eminent APPLICATION OF THE CONTRACT CLAUSE
domain (Association of Small Landowners vs. Secretary of Impairment is anything that diminishes the efficacy of the
Agrarian Reform) as it is a means to regulate private contract. [Clements v. Nolting (1922)]
property.
REQUISITES:
Retention limits prescribed by the Comprehensive (1) Substantial impairment
Agrarian Reform Law is also form of taking under the (a) change the terms of legal contract either in time or
power of eminent domain. The taking contemplated is not mode of performance
a mere limitation on the use of the land, but the surrender (b) impose new conditions
of the title to and physical possession of the excess and all (c) dispenses with expressed conditions
beneficial rights accruing to the owner in favor of the (d) authorizes for its satisfaction something different from
that provided in the terms
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(2) Affects rights of parties with reference to each other, and three thousand (P3,000.00) pesos a month if residing
and not with respect to non-parties. [Philippine Rural outside Metro Manila, and (b) who do not own real
Electric Cooperatives Association v. Secretary, DILG property with an assessed value of more than fifty
(2003)] thousand (P50,000.00) pesos shall be exempt from the
payment of legal fees.
CONTEMPORARY APPLICATION OF THE CONTRACT
CLAUSE The legal fees shall be a lien on any judgment rendered in
WHEN NON-IMPAIRMENT CLAUSE PREVAILS: the case favorably to the indigent litigant, unless the court
(1) against power of taxation otherwise provides.
(2) regulation on loans
To be entitled to the exemption herein provided, the
New regulations on loans making redemption of property litigant shall execute an affidavit that he and his
sold on foreclosure stricter are not allowed to apply immediate family do not earn a gross income
retroactively. [Co v. Philippine National Bank (1982)] abovementioned, nor they own any real property with the
assessed value aforementioned, supported by an affidavit
WHEN NON-IMPAIRMENT CLAUSE YIELDS: of a disinterested person attesting to the truth of the
(1) Invalid exercise of police power i.e zoning regulation litigant's affidavit.
[Presley v. Bel-Air Village Association (1991)], premature
campaign ban [Chavez v. COMELEC (2004)], liquidation Any falsity in the affidavit of a litigant or disinterested
of a chartered bank [Philippine Veterans Bank person shall be sufficient cause to strike out the pleading
Employees Union v. Philippine Veterans Bank (1990)] of that party, without prejudice to whatever criminal
(2) Statute that exempts a party from any one class of liability may have been incurred. [Rule 141, Sec. 18, Rules of
taxes Court]
(3) Against freedom of religion [Victoriano v. Elizalde Rope
Workers (1974)] Indigent party. — A party may be authorized to litigate his
(4) Judicial or quasi-judicial order action, claim or defense as an indigent if the court, upon an
ex parte application and hearing, is satisfied that the party
The non-impairment clause is a limit on legislative power, is one who has no money or property sufficient and
and not of judicial or quasi-judicial power. The approval of available for food, shelter and basic necessities for himself
the Rehabilitation Plan by the Securities and Exchange and his family.
Commission is an exercise of adjudicatory power by an
administrative agency and thus the non-impairment Such authority shall include an exemption from payment
clause does not apply. Neither does it impair the power to of docket and other lawful fees, and of transcripts of
contract. [BPI v. SEC (2007)] stenographic notes which the court may order to be
furnished him. The amount of the docket and other lawful
Note:Timber licenses, permits, and license agreements are fees which the indigent was exempted from paying shall
the principal instruments by which the State regulates the be a lien on any judgment rendered in the case favorable
utilization and disposition of forest resources to the end to the indigent, unless the court otherwise provides.
that public welfare is promoted. They are not deemed
contracts within the purview of the due process of law Any adverse party may contest the grant of such authority
clause. [Oposa v. Factoran (1993)]
at any time before judgment is rendered by the trial court.
If the court should determine after hearing that the party
LIMITATIONS declared as an indigent is in fact a person with sufficient
It is ingrained in jurisprudence that the constitutional
income or property, the proper docket and other lawful
prohibition does not prohibit every change in existing laws. fees shall be assessed and collected by the clerk of court.
To fall within the prohibition, the change must not only If the payment is not made within the time fixed by the
impair the obligation of the existing contract, but the
court, execution shall issue or the payment thereof,
impairment must be substantial. Moreover, the law must without prejudice to such other sanctions as the court may
effect a change in the rights of the parties with reference to
impose. [Rule 3, Sec. 21, Rules of Court]
each other, and not with respect to non-parties. [Philippine
Rural Electric Cooperatives Association v. Secretary, DILG
(2003)] RA NO. 9999
FREE LEGAL ASSISTANCE ACT OF 2010
Legal services- any activity which requires the application of
law, legal procedure, knowledge, training and experiences
which shall include, among others, legal advice and
Legal Assistance and Free counsel, and the preparation of instruments and contracts,
including appearance before the administrative and quasi-
Access to Courts judicial offices, bodies and tribunals handling cases in
court, and other similar services as may be defined by the
Supreme Court.
Free access to the courts and quasi-judicial bodies and
adequate legal assistance shall not be denied to any
person by reason of poverty. [Art. III, Sec. 11] Section 4. Requirements for Availment. - For purposes of
availing of the benefits and services as envisioned in this
Act, a lawyer or professional partnership shall secure a
SEC. 18. Indigent litigants exempt from payment of legal certification from the Public Attorney's Office (PAO), the
fees.—Indigent litigants (a) whose gross income and that of Department of Justice (DOJ) or accredited association of
their immediate family do not exceed four thousand the Supreme Court indicating that the said legal services
(P4,000.00) pesos a month if residing in Metro Manila, to be provided are within the services defined by the
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Supreme Court, and that the agencies cannot provide the (1) He has a right to remain silent;
legal services to be provided by the private counsel. (2) That any statement he makes may be used as evidence
against him; and
For purpose of determining the number of hours actually (3) That he has a right to the presence of an attorney,
provided by the lawyer and/or professional firm in the either retained or appointed.
provision of legal services, the association and/or
organization duly accredited by the Supreme Court shall RA 7438, RIGHTS OF PERSONS UNDER CUSTODIAL
issue the necessary certification that said legal services INVESTIGATION
were actually undertaken. Section 1. Statement of Policy. - It is the policy of the Senate
to value the dignity of every human being and guarantee
Section 5. Incentives to Lawyers. - For purposes of this Act, full respect for human rights
a lawyer or professional partnerships rendering actual free
legal services, as defined by the Supreme Court, shall be Section 2. Rights of Persons Arrested, Detained or Under
entitled to an allowable deduction from the gross income, Custodial Investigation; Duties of Public Officers. –
the amount that could have been collected for the actual free Any public officer or employee, or anyone acting under his
legal services rendered or up to ten percent (10%) of the gross order or his place, who arrests, detains or investigates any
income derived from the actual performance of the legal person for the commission of an offense:
profession, whichever is lower: Provided, That the actual (1) shall inform the latter, in a language known to and
free legal services herein contemplated shall be exclusive understood by him,
of the minimumsixty (60)-hour mandatory legal aid services (2) of his rights to remain silentand
rendered to indigent litigants as required under the Rule (3) to have competent and independent counsel,
on Mandatory Legal Aid Services for Practicing Lawyers, preferably of his own choice,
under BAR Matter No. 2012, issued by the Supreme Court. (4) who shall at all times be allowed to confer privately
with the person arrested, detained or under custodial
Note: The significance of having an explicit “free access” investigation.
provisions in the Constitution may be gathered from the (5) If such person cannot afford the services of his own
rocky road which “free access” seems to have traveled in counsel, he must be provided with a competent and
American jurisprudence. The American constitution does independent counsel by the investigating officer.
not have an explicit free access provision and, hence, its
free access doctrine has been developed as implicit from AVAILABILITY
both the equal protection clause and the due process (1) When the person is already under custodial
clause. [Bernas] investigation
(2) Custodial investigation involves any questioning
initiated by law enforcement
(3) During “critical pre-trial stages” in the criminal process
Rights of Suspects CUSTODIAL INVESTIGATION
Involves any questioning initiated by law enforcement
(1) Any person under investigation for the commission of an
offense shall have the right to be informed of his right When the investigation is no longer a general inquiry unto
to remain silent and to have competent and an unsolved crime but has begun to focus on a particular
independent counsel preferably of his own choice. If suspect, as when the suspect has been taken into police
the person cannot afford the services of counsel, he custody and the police carries out a process of
must be provided with one. These rights cannot be interrogation that lends itself to eliciting incriminating
waived except in writing and in the presence of statements. [People vs. Mara (1994)]
counsel.
(2) No torture, force, violence, threat, intimidation, or any Includes issuing an invitation to a person under
other means which vitiate the free will shall be used investigationin connection with an offense he is suspected
against him. Secret detention places, solitary, to have committed. [Sec. 2, RA 7438]
incommunicado, or other similar forms of detention are
prohibited. CRITICAL PRE-TRIAL STAGE
(3) Any confession or admission obtained in violation of Any critical confrontation by the prosecution at pretrial
this or Section 17 hereof shall be inadmissible in proceedingswhere the results might well determine his
evidence against him. fate andwhere the absence of counsel might derogate
(4) The law shall provide for penal and civil sanctions for from his right to a fair trial. [U.S. vs. Wade (1967)]
violations of this section as well as compensation to the
rehabilitation of victims of torture or similar practices, SHOW - UP AND POLICE LINE-UP
and their families. [Art. III, Sec. 12] General: No right to counsel
In Miranda v. Arizona: The Federal Supreme Court made it Out-of-court identification like a “show up” (accused is
clear that what is prohibited is the "incommunicado brought face to face with the witness for identification), or
interrogation of individuals in a police dominated “police line-up” (suspect is identified by witness from a
atmosphere, resulting in self- incriminating statements group of persons gathered for that purpose)
without full warnings of constitutional rights.”
Exception: Right to counsel if accusatory
MIRANDA RIGHTS
The person under custodial investigation must be warned The moment there is a move or even an urge of said
that: investigators to elicit admissions or confessions or even
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RIGHT AGAINST SELF-INCRIMINATION UNDER ART. III, SEC. 12 (1) Must be in writing
The warning of the right to remain silent must be (2) Made in the presence of counsel [Art. III, Sec. 12]
accompanied by the explanation that anything said can
and will be used against the individual in court. RA 7438, RIGHTS OF PERSONS UNDER CUSTODIAL INVESTIGATION
Section 2. Rights of Persons Arrested, Detained or Under
This warning is needed in order to make him aware not Custodial Investigation; Duties of Public Officers. –
only of the privilege to remain silent, but also of the (e) Any waiver by a person arrested or detained under the
consequences of forgoing it. provisions of Article 125 of the Revised Penal Code, or
under custodial investigation, shall be in writing and
RIGHT TO COUNSEL signed by such person in the presence of his counsel;
Rights of Persons Arrested, Detained or Under Custodial otherwise the waiver shall be null and void and of no
Investigation; Duties of Public Officers. – effect.
(a) Any person arrested detained or under custodial
investigation shall at all times be assisted by counsel; BURDEN OF PROVING VOLUNTARINESS OF WAIVER [PEOPLE V.
otherwise the waiver shall be null and void and of no JARA, 1986]
effect. [RA 7438, Rights of Persons under Custodial Presumption against the waiver
Investigation; Section 2.] Burden of proof: prosecution
prosecution must prove with strongly convincing evidence to
Essence: when a counsel is engaged by anyone acting on the satisfaction of this Court that indeed the accused:
behalf of the person under investigation, or appointed by (1) Willingly and voluntarily submitted his confession and
the court upon petition by said person or by someone on (2) Knowingly and deliberately manifested that he was not
his behalf. [People v. Espiritu (1999)] interested in having a lawyer assist him during the
taking of that confession.
Competent and independent counsel preferably of the
suspects own choice
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Rights of the Accused (h) To have speedy, impartial and public trial.
(d) To testify as a witness in his own behalf but subject to BAIL AS A MATTER OF RIGHT VS. MATTER OF DISCRETION
cross-examination on matters covered by direct Matter of right Matter of Discretion
examination. His silence shall not in any manner
prejudice him. Bail is a matter of (1) In case the evidence of guilt is
right in all cases not strong. In such a case,
(e) To be exempt from being compelled to be a witness punishable by according to People v. San
against himself. reclusion perpetua. Diego (1966), the court's
discretion to grant bail must be
(f) To confront and cross-examine the witnesses against exercised in the light of a
him at the trial. Either party may utilize as part of its summary of the evidence
evidence the testimony of a witness who is deceased, presented by the prosecution.
out of or cannot with due diligence be found in the Thus, the order granting or
Philippines, unavailable, or otherwise unable to testify, refusing bail must contain a
given in another case or proceeding, judicial or summary of the evidence for
administrative, involving the same parties and subject the prosecution followed by the
matter, the adverse party having the opportunity to conclusion on whether or not
cross-examine him. the evidence of guilt is strong
(Note: it is not the existence of
(g) To have compulsory process issued to secure the guilt itself which is concluded
attendance of witnesses and production of other but the strength of the
evidence in his behalf. probability that guilt exists).
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(2) In extradition proceedings. The accused cannot present evidence before the
Extradition courts do not prosecution does so, even if the accused pleads guilty. It
render judgments of conviction violates the presumption of innocence. [Alejandro vs.
or acquittal so it does not Pepito (1980)]
matter WON the crimes the
accused is being extradited for The presumption of regularity (in official duties) cannot by
is punishable by reclusion itself prevail over the presumption of innocence of the
perpetua[US Gov’t. v. Judge accused. But where it is not the sole basis for conviction,
Puruganan and Mark Jimenez the presumption of regularity of performance of official
(2002)] functions may prevail over the constitutional presumption
of innocence. [People vs. Acuram (2000)]
WHEN AVAILABLE
General rule:From the very moment of arrest (which may be Equipoise Rule
before or after the filing of formal charges in court) up to Where the evidence adduced by the parties is evenly
the time of conviction by final judgment (which means balanced, the constitutional presumption of innocence
after appeal). should tilt the balance in favor of the accused. [Corpuz vs.
People (1991)]
No charge need be filed formally before one can file for
bail, so long as one is under arrest. [Heras Teehankee v. In order that circumstantial evidence may warrant
Rovica (1945)] conviction, the following requisites must concur:
(1) There is more than one circumstance
Arraignment of the accused is not essential to the approval (2) The facts from which the inferences are derived are
of the bail bond. When bail is authorized, it should be proven
granted before arraignment. Otherwise the accused may (3) The combination of all the circumstances is such as to
be precluded from filing a motion to quash. Also, the court produce conviction beyond reasonable doubt. [People
will be assured of the presence of the accused at the v. Bato (1998)]
arraignment precisely by grating bail and ordering his
presence at any stage of the proceeding. [Lavides v. CA RIGHT TO BE HEARD
(2000)] Any person under investigation for the commission of an
offense shall have the right to be informed of his right to
Exceptions: remain silent and to have competent and independent
(1) When charged with an offense punishable by reclusion counsel preferably of his own choice. If the person cannot
perpetua. afford the services of counsel, he must be provided with
(2) Traditionally, the right to bail is not available to the one. These rights cannot be waived except in writing and in
military, as an exception to the bill of rights. [People v. the presence of counsel. [Art. III, Sec. 12]
Reyes (1992)]
It means the accused is amply accorded legal assistance
STANDARDS FOR FIXING BAIL extended by a counsel who commits himself to the cause
RULE 114. Sec. 9. Amount of bail; guidelines. – The judge of the defense and acts accordingly. It is an efficient and
who issued the warrant or granted the application shall fix truly decisive legal assistance, and not simply a
a reasonable amount of bail considering primarily, but not perfunctory representation. [People v. Bermas (1999)]
limited to, the following factors:
(a) Financial liability of the accused to give bail; ASSISTANCE OF COUNSEL
(b) Nature and circumstance of the offense; RA 7438. Rights of Persons under Custodial Investigation.
(c) Penalty for the offense charged; SEC. 2. Rights of Persons Arrested, Detained or Under
(d) Character and reputation of the accused; Custodial Investigation; Duties of Public Officers. – (a) Any
(e) Age and health of the accused; person arrested detained or under custodial investigation
(f) Weight of the evidence against the accused; shall at all times be assisted by counsel;
(g) Probability of the accused appearing at the trial;
(h) Forfeiture of other bail;
Elements of the Right to Counsel
(i) The fact that the accused was a fugitive from justice (1) Court’s duty to inform the accused of right to counsel
when arrested; and
before being arraigned;
(j) Pendency of other cases where the accused is on bail. (2) It must ask him if he desires the services of counsel;
Excessive bail shall not be required. (3) If he does, and is unable to get one, the Court must
give him one; if the accused wishes to procure private
"Discretion is with the court called upon to rule on the counsel, the Court must give him time to obtain one.
question of bail. We must stress, however, that where (4) Where no lawyer is available, the Court may appoint
conditions imposed upon a defendant seeking bail would any person resident of the province and of good repute
amount to a refusal thereof and render nugatory the for probity and ability.
constitutional right to bail, we will not hesitate to exercise
our supervisory powers to provide the required remedy. RIGHT TO BE INFORMED
[Dela Camara v. Enage (1971)] Procedural due process requires that the accused must be
informed why he is being prosecuted and what charge he
PRESUMPTION OF INNOCENCE must meet. [Vera vs. People, supra]
The requirement of proof beyond reasonable doubt is a
necessary corollary of the constitutional right to be Note: Description, not designation of offense, is controlling
presumed innocent. [People vs. Dramavo (1971)]
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RIGHT OF CONFRONTATION An issue has been raised as to WON petitioner could waive
This is the basis of the right to cross-examination. his right to be present during trial.
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The privilege of the writ of habeas corpus shall not be RESTRAINT OF LIBERTY
suspended except in cases of invasion or rebellion when Not only physical restraint, any restraint on freedom of
the public safety requires it. [Art. III, Sec. 15] action is sufficient i.e (1) curtailed freedom of movement by
the condition that he must get approval of respondents for
any travel outside Metro Manila, (2) abridged liberty of
The President shall be the Commander-in-Chief of all abode because prior approval of respondent is required in
armed forces of the Philippines and whenever it becomes case petitioner wants to change place of residence, (3)
necessary, he may call out such armed forces to prevent or abridged freedom of speech due to prohibition from taking
suppress lawless violence, invasion or rebellion. any interviews inimical to national security, and (4)
petitioner is required to report regularly to respondents or
In case of invasion or rebellion, when the public safety their reps. [Moncupa v. Enrile (1986)]
requires it, he may, for a period not exceeding sixty days,
suspend the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus or place Note: Even if the party to whom the writ is addressed has
the Philippines or any part thereof under martial law. illegally parted with the custody of a person before the
Within forty-eight hours from the proclamation of martial application for the writ is no reason why the writ should not
law or the suspension of the privilege of the writ of habeas issue. [Villavicencio v. Lukban (1919)]
corpus, the President shall submit a report in person or in
writing to the Congress. Test for valid suspension of the privilege of the writ:
arbitrariness, not correctness
The Congress, voting jointly, by a vote of at least a majority
of all its Members in regular or special session, may revoke Conditions for valid suspension:
such proclamation or suspension, which revocation shall (1) Presence of invasion, insurrection or rebellion
not be set aside by the President. (2) Public safety requires it [Lansang v. Garcia (1971)]
Upon the initiative of the President, the Congress may, in
the same manner, extend such proclamation or
suspension for a period to be determined by the Congress,
if the invasion or rebellion shall persist and public safety
requires it.
Writ of Amparo, Habeas Data
The Congress, if not in session, shall, within twenty-four
and Kalikasan
hours following such proclamation or suspension, convene WRIT OF AMPARO
in accordance with its rules without need of a call. The petition for a writ of amparo is a remedy available to
The Supreme Court may: 1) review, 2) in an appropriate any person whose right to life, liberty and security is
proceeding; 3) filed by any citizen, 4) the sufficiency of the violated or threatened with violation by an unlawful act or
factual basis of the proclamation of martial law or the omission of a public official or employee, or of a private
suspension of the privilege of the writ or the extension individual or entity. [Sec. 1, The Rule on the Writ of Amparo]
thereof, and 5) must promulgate its decision thereon
within thirty days from its filing. Basis
The Supreme Court shall have the following powers: xxx
A state of martial law does not suspend the operation of (5) Promulgate rules concerning the protection and
the Constitution, nor supplant the functioning of the civil
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enforcement of constitutional rights, xxx. Such rules shall Filing Enforceability Returnable
provide a simplified and inexpensive procedure for the
speedy disposition of cases, shall be uniform for all courts (3) Any RTC of
of the same grade, and shall not diminish, increase, or the place where
modify substantive rights. Xxx [Art. VIII, Sec. 5] the threat, act or
omission was
PETITION FOR WRIT committed or
Form any of its
The petition shall be signed and verified. [Sec. 5] elements
occurred
Contents
The petition shall allege the following: Docket fees: None [Sec. 4]
(1) The personal circumstances of the petitioner
(2) The name and personal circumstances of the Return
respondent responsible for the threat, act or omission, Within 72 hours after service of the writ, the respondent
or, if the name is unknown or uncertain, the respondent shall file a verified written return together with supporting
may be described by an assumed appellation affidavits which shall, among other things, contain his
(3) The right to life, liberty and security of the aggrieved defenses. A general denial is not allowed. [Sec. 9]
party violated or threatened with violation by an
unlawful act or omission of the respondent, and how Hearing
such threat or violation is committed with the Summary or court may call for a preliminary conference;
attendant circumstances detailed in supporting given same priority as petition for habeas corpus [Sec. 13]
affidavits
(4) The investigation conducted, if any, specifying the Burden of proof
names, personal circumstances, and addresses of the Substantial evidence
investigating authority or individuals, as well as the
manner and conduct of the investigation, together with Defense:
any report Private individual – ordinary diligence; public official –
(5) The actions and recourses taken by the petitioner to extraordinary diligence, no presumption of regularity of
determine the fate or whereabouts of the aggrieved duties [Sec. 17]
party and the identity of the person responsible for the
threat, act or omission The Manalo brothers were abducted, detained, and
(6) The relief prayed for. tortured repeatedly by the military. After their escape, they
filed a petition for the privilege of the Writ of Amparo. The
The petition may include a general prayer for other just Supreme Court granted the petition and held that there
and equitable reliefs. [Sec. 5] was a continuing violation of the Manalos’ right to security.
Where to file
The petition may be filed on any day and at any time [Sec. As regards the relief granted, the Court held that the
3] production order under the Amparo rule is different from a
search warrant and may be likened to the production of
documents or things under Rule 27.1, ROC. [Secretary of
Filing Enforceability Returnable National Defense v. Manalo (2008)]
RTC of the place Before the
where the threat, issuing court or WRIT OF HABEAS DATA (SEE PREVIOUS DISCUSSION)
act or omission judge The writ of habeas data is an independent and summary
was committed remedy designed to protect the image, privacy, honor,
or any of its information, and freedom of information of an individual,
elements and to provide a forum to enforce one’s right to the truth
occurred and to informational privacy.
Sandiganbayan (1) Before the
or any of its issuing court or There must be a nexus between right to privacy and right
Anywhere in the
justices any justice to life, liberty and security.
Philippines
Court of Appeals thereof, OR
or any of its (2) Any RTC of RIGHT TO INFORMATIONAL PRIVACY V. LEGITIMATE STATE INTEREST
justices the place where The determination of whether the privilege of the writ
the threat, act or of habeas data, being an extraordinary remedy, may be
omission was granted in this case entails a delicate balancing of the
committed or alleged intrusion upon the private life of Gamboa and the
any of its relevant state interest involved. [Gamboa v. P/Ssupt.
elements Marlou C. Chan, et al., (2012)]
occurred
SC or any of its (1) Before the WRIT OF KALIKASAN
justices issuing court or Remedy against violation or threat of violation of
any justice constitutional right to a balanced and healthful ecology by
thereof an unlawful act or omission of a public official or
(2) Before the employee, or private individual or entity, involving
Sandiganbayan environmental damage of such magnitude as to prejudice
Anywhere in the
or CA or any of the life, health or property of inhabitants in two or more
Philippines
their justices, OR cities or provinces
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FOREIGN LAWS
WHO MAY FILE: The privilege which exists as to private papers, cannot be
Natural or juridical persons, NGO or public interest groups maintained in relation to “records required by law to be
in behalf of persons whose right is violated kept in order that there may be suitable information of
transactions which are the appropriate subjects of
WHO HAS JURISDICTION governmental regulation and the enforcement of
Supreme Court or Court of Appeals restrictions validly established. [Shapiro v. US (1948)]
DOCKET FEES: None In recent cases, the US Supreme Court has struck down
certain registration requirements that presented real and
WHEN IS WRIT ISSUED: appreciable risk of self-incrimination. These involved
Within three (3) days from the date of filing of the petition, statues directed at inherently suspect groups in areas
if the petition is sufficient in form and substance permeated by criminal statutes, a circumstance which laid
the subjects open to real risk of self-incrimination. [Bernas]
RETURN OF RESPONDENT
Within a non-extendible period of ten (10) days after The great majority of persons who file income tax returns
service of the writ, the respondent shall file a verified do not incriminate themselves by disclosing their
return which shall contain all defenses; all defenses not occupation. [US v. Sullivan (1927)]
raised are deemed waived
APPLICATION
HEARING General Rule: The privilege is available in any proceedings,
Preliminary conference; same prioprity as other writs [no even outside the court, for they may eventually lead to a
more than 60 days]; criminal prosecution.
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A private person who contracts obligations of this sort In this case the Court took into account, in lowering the
toward the Army cannot, by law that we know of, either penalty to reclusion perpetua of the accused most of whom
civil or military be compelled to fulfill them by were already death row convicts, the deplorable sub-
imprisonment and deportation from his place of residence, human conditions of the National Penitentiary where the
we deem it wholly improper to sustain such means of crime was committed. [People vs. dela Cruz (1953)]
compulsion which are not justified either by law or by the
contract. [In Re Brooks (1901)] What is Prohibited: Cruel and unusual punishment.
Unusual punishment is not prohibited especially if it makes
Domestic services are always to be remunerated, and no the penalty less severe.
agreement may subsist in law in which it is stipulated that
any domestic service shall be absolutely gratuitous, unless What is a cruel punishment?
it be admitted that slavery may be established in this (1) Involves torture or lingering death [Legarda v. Valdez
country through a covenant entered into between (1902)]
interested parties. [de los Reyes v. Alojado (1910)] (2) Not only severe, harsh or excessive but flagrantly and
plainly oppressive
A former court stenographer may be compelled under pain (3) Wholly disproportionate to the nature of the offense as
of contempt to transcribe stenographic notes he had failed to shock the moral sense of the community [People v.
to attend to while in service. x xx such compulsion is not Estoista (1953)]
the condition of enforced compulsory service referred to by
the Constitution. Note: The constitutional limit must be reckoned on the
basis of the nature and mode of punishment measured in
Fernando, J. concurring opinion: terms of physical pain
The matter could become tricky should a stenographer
stubbornly refuse to obey and the court insist on keeping RA 9346 (JUNE 24, 2006): AN ACT PROHIBITING THE
him in jail. The detention could then become punitive and IMPOSITION OF DEATH PENALTY IN THE PHILIPPINES
give rise to the issue of involuntary servitude. [Aclaracion v. Sec. 1. The imposition of the penalty of death is hereby
Gatmaitan (1975)] prohibited. Accordingly, R.A. No. 8177, otherwise known as
the Act Designating Death by Lethal Injection is hereby
POLITICAL PRISONERS repealed. R.A. No. 7659, otherwise known as the Death
If the petitioners are political prisoners subject to the civil Penalty Law, and all other laws, executive orders and
jurisdiction of ordinary courts of justice if they are to be decrees, insofar as they impose the death penalty are
prosecuted at all, the army has no jurisdiction, nor power, hereby repealed or amended accordingly.
nor authority, from all legal standpoints, to continue
holding them in restraint. They are entitled, as a matter of The import of the grant of power to Congress to restore the
fundamental right, to be immediately released, any death penalty requires:
allegation as to whether the war was ended or not. (1) that Congress define or describe what is meant by
[Raquiza v. Bradford (1945)] heinous crimes
(2) that Congress specify and penalize by death, only crimes
Sec. 19 of CA No. 682 authorizes that the political that qualify as heinous in accordance with the definition
prisoners in question "may be released on bail, even prior or description set in the death penalty bill and/or
to the presentation of the corresponding information," and designate crimes punishable by reclusion perpetua to
this may be done "existing provisions of law to the contrary death in which latter case, death can only be imposed
notwithstanding." We must assume that the discretion upon the attendance of circumstances duly proven in
granted must be construed in the sense that the same may court that characterize the crime to be heinous in
be exercised in cases wherein it was not heretofore granted accordance with the definition or description set in the
by law. And it is reasonable to assume that the discretion death penalty bill
granted is to the effect that the People's Court may (3) that Congress, in enacting this death penalty bill be
exercise jurisdiction to order the release on bail of political singularly motivated by “compelling reasons involving
prisoners "even prior to the presentation of the heinous crimes.”
corresponding information." [Duran v. Abad Santos (1945)]
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For a death penalty bill to be valid, a positive manifestation ordinance, conviction or acquittal under either shall
in the form of higher incidence of crime should first be constitute a bar to another prosecution for the same act.
perceived and statistically proven following the suspension [Art. III, Sec. 21]
of the death penalty [is not required in Sec. 19 (1)]. Neither
does the said provision require that the death penalty be TERMINATION OF JEOPARDY
resorted to as a last recourse when all other criminal (1) By acquittal
reforms have failed to abate criminality in society. [People (2) By final conviction
v. Echegaray (1997)] (3) By dismissal without express consent of accused
(4) By “dismissal” on the merits
Sec 19 (2) as worded, already embodies constitutional
authorization for the Commission on Human Rights to take REQUISITES
action in accordance with Art XIII Sec 18. There is a (1) Court of competent jurisdiction;
command addressed to Congressed to pass whatever civil (2) A Complaint/Information sufficient in form and
or penal legislation might be required for the subject. substance to sustain a conviction;
[Bernas] (3) Arraignment and plea by the accused;
(4) Conviction, acquittal, or dismissal of the case without
the express consent, of the accused. [Rule 117, Sec. 7;
People vs. Obsania (1968)]
Non-Imprisonment for Debts WHEN SUBSEQUENT PROSECUTION IS BARRED
(1) Same offense
No person shall be imprisoned for debt or non-payment (2) Attempt of the same offense
of a poll tax. [Art. III, Sec. 20] (3) Frustration of the same offense
(4) Offense necessarily included in the 1st offense (All the
SCOPE elements of the 2nd constitute some of the elements of
(1) Debt – any civil obligation arising from a contract. It the 1st offense)
includes even debts obtained through fraud since no (5) Offense that necessarily includes the 1st offense (All
distinction is made in the Constitution. [Ganaway v. the elements of the 1st constitute some of the elements
Quillen (1922)] of the 2nd offense)
(2) Poll Tax – a specific sum levied upon any person
belonging to a certain class without regard to property EXCEPTIONS
or occupation (e.g. community tax). (1) The graver offense developed due to "supervening
facts" arising from the same act or omission
A tax is not a debt since it is an obligation arising from law. constituting the former charged.
Hence, its non-payment maybe validly punished with (2) The facts constituting the graver charge became
imprisonment. known or were discovered only after the filing of the
former complaint or information.
Santos refused to pay 16 pesos for Ramirez’s cedula as (3) The plea of guilty to the lesser offense was made
payment for what Santos owed Ramirez. Thus, Ramirez without the consent of the fiscal and the offended
was convicted and imprisoned for estafa. Upon demand for party.
release, the Court held that the imprisonment was correct
since it was for estafa and not involuntary servitude or WHEN DEFENSE OF DOUBLE JEOPARDY IS AVAILABLE
imprisonment for debt. [Ramirez v. de Orozco (1916)] (1) Dismissal based on insufficiency of evidence;
(2) Dismissal because of denial of right to speedy trial;
The obligation incurred by the debtor, as shown by the (3) Accused is discharged to be a state witness.
receipt, was to pay an ordinary contractual obligation.
Since the guardianship proceeding was civil in nature, the MOTIONS FOR RECONSIDERATION AND APPEALS
Court did not allow enforcement of the civil obligation by The accused cannot be prosecuted a second time for the
an order of imprisonment. [In re Tamboco (1917)] same offense and the prosecution cannot appeal a
judgment of acquittal. [Kepner v. US (1904)]
No person may be imprisoned for debt in virtue of a civil
proceeding. [Makapagal v. Santamaria (1930)] Provided, that the judge considered the evidence, even if
the appreciation of the evidence leading to the acquittal is
A person may be imprisoned as a penalty for a crime erroneous, an appeal or motion for reconsideration by the
arising from a contractual debt and imposed in a proper prosecution will not be allowed. [People v. Judge Velasco
criminal proceeding. Thus, the conversion of a criminal fine (2000)]
into a prison term does not violate the provision because in
such a case, imprisonment is imposed for a monetary No error, however, flagrant, committed by the court
obligation arising from a crime. [Ajeno v. Judge Insero against the state, can be reserved by it for decision by the
(1976)] Supreme Court when the defendant has once been placed
in jeopardy and discharged even though the discharge was
the result of the error committed. [People v. Ang Cho (1945)
citing State v. Rook]
Double Jeopardy A mere verbal dismissal is not final until written and
signed by the judge. [Rivera, Jr. v. People (1990)]
No person shall be twice put in jeopardy of punishment for
the same offense. If an act is punished by a law and an
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When an accused appeals his conviction, he waives his The prohibition applies only to criminal legislation which
right to the plea of double jeopardy. If the accused had affects the substantial rights of the accused. [Phil. National
been prosecuted for a higher offense but was convicted for Bank v. Ruperto (1960)]
a lower offense, he has technically been acquitted of the
higher offense. His appeal would give the Court the right to It applies to criminal procedural law prejudicial to the
impose a penalty higher than that of the original conviction accused. [US v. Gomez (1908)]
imposed on him. [Trono v. US (1905)]
It is improper to apply the prohibition to an executive
Double jeopardy provides three related protections: proclamation suspending the privilege of the writ of
(1) Against a second prosecution for the same offense after habeas corpus. [Montenegro v. Castañeda (1952)]
acquittal;
(2) Against a second prosecution for the same offense after BILLS OF ATTAINDER
conviction; and A bill of attainder is a legislative act which inflicts
(3) Against multiple punishments for the same offense. punishment without judicial trial. If the punishment be less
[People v. Dela Torre (2002)] than death, the act is termed a bill of pains and penalties.
Within the meaning of the Constitution, bills of attainder
DISMISSAL WITH CONSENT OF ACCUSED include bills of pains and penalties. [Cummings v. Missouri
Provisional dismissal.—A case shall not be provisionally (1867)]
dismissed except with the express consent of the accused
and with notice to the offended party. [Rule 117, Sec. 8 (1)] It is a general safeguard against legislative exercise of the
judicial function, or trial by legislature. [US v. Brown (1965)]
When the case is dismissed other than on the merits, upon
motion of the accused personally, or through counsel, such
dismissal is regarded as “with express consent of the
accused”, who is therefore deemed to have waived the
right to plea double jeopardy.
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