LAWYERS LEAGUE FOR A BETTER PHILIPPINES VS.

AQUINO
GR No. 73478
MAY 22, 1986
(There is no “Full-Text” of this case. This is a Minute Resolution by the SC)

FACTS: On February 25, 1986 President Corazon C. Aquino formally issued Proclamation No.
1 which states that, she and Vice President Salvador H. Laurel are to take power. Subsequently
on March 25, 1986, President Aquino issued Proclamation No. 3 which provides for the basis of
the Aquino government’s assumption of power, it states that; “The new government was installed
by a direct exercise of the power of the Filipino people with the assistance from the members of
the New Armed forces of the Philippines.”

ISSUE: Whether or not the government of President Aquino is a legitimate government.

RULING: Yes, the government of President Aquino is legitimate. The petitioners have no
personality to sue and their petitions state no cause of action. For it is decided that the legitimacy
of the government is not a justiciable matter but, simply belongs to the realm of politics wherein
the people itself are the judge. The Court also points out that the people have accepted the
government of President Aquino which is in effective control of the country. It is therefore not
just a de facto government but, it is considered as a de jure government. Lastly, the community
of nations have recognized the legitimacy of the said government.