Legal Forms Reviewer

QUICK REVIEWER ON LEGAL FORMS
By: Atty. Edwin M. Carillo
The patterns of legal forms are either Business Legal Forms or Judicial Legal Forms.
Familiarize yourselves with their respective templates to save you time when drafting any of them
during the examinations.
A. BUSINESS LEGAL FORMS
As the term suggests, Business Legal Forms are the templates or moulds used or required in the
ordinary course of trade or commerce. These templates are usually divided into three (3) patterns,
namely: (i) affidavits; (ii) deed forms; and, (iii) contract forms.
I. AFFIDAVITS or SWORN STATEMENTS
An affidavit is a sworn declaration of facts known to a declarant or affiant. It consists of the

following parts: the venue of execution, title, person’s bona fides, the oath, statement, the signature and
the jurat. (Code: VeTiPe-OSta-SiJu) Of all these parts, the jurat is the most important as this is the
certification of an officer that the statement was sworn before him. Section 6, Rule II of the 2004 Rules
on Notarial Practice (RNP) (effective August 2004), however, defines a jurat as an act in which an
individual on a single occasion:
(a) appears in person before the notary public and presents an instrument or document;
(b) is personally known to the notary public or identified by the notary public through competent
evidence of identity as defined by these Rules;
(c) signs the instrument or document in the presence of the notary; and
(d) takes an oath or affirmation before the notary public as to such instrument or document. (This
means that the declarant vows under penalty of law to the whole truth of the contents of his
statement. Note also that the elements of a jurat are connected by a conjunctive “and”. As such,
each one act should be reflected in the jurat.)
Check out the following sample of an affidavit:

Republic of the Philippines)
City of Manila ) S.S.
AFFIDAVIT
I, RAUL C. SALONGA, of legal age, married, residing at 505 V.G. Cruz, Sampaloc, Manila,
state under oath that:
1. I am a licensed physician.
2. I examined accused Ferdinand Ramos at 4 o’clock in the afternoon today and found him
suffering from intestinal flu for which I prescribed medicine and best rest for three days.
Manila, 14 August 2008.
(SGD.) RAUL C. SALONGA

Affiant
SIGNED AND SWORN before me this 14 August 2008 at Manila, after

affiant exhibited to me his Passport JJ2003*, issued on 09 January 2007 at
Manila.
Quick Reviewer on Legal Forms -2-
x----------------------x
(SGD) JUAN C. MENDOZA

Notary Public for Manila
Suite 212 Burke Building, Escolta, Manila
The Notarial
Commission Serial 54342
Certificate Jurat
Until Dec. 31, 2008
Roll of Attorney 38718
PTR 56789; 1-12-08; Manila
Doc. 12; IBP 24680; 1-12-08; Manila
Page 8;
Book II;
Series of 2008.
NOTE:
*The passport number is indicated here instead of the usual community tax certificate because of
Section 12, Rule 2 of the 2004 RNP, which provides:
“SEC 12. Competent evidence of Identity – The phrase “competent evidence of identity” refers to the
identification of an individual based on:
(a) at least one current identification document issued by an official agency bearing the photograph and
signature of the individual; or
(b) the oath or affirmation of one credible witness not privy to the instrument, document or transaction who is
personally known to the notary public and who personally knows the individual, or of two credible witnesses neither of
whom is privy to the instrument, document or transaction who each personally knows the individual and shows to the
notary public documentary identification.”
It appears from the foregoing that a community tax certificate (also called residence tax
certificate) issued to individuals under Section 156 of Republic Act 7160, as amended (Local
Government Code), is no longer a competent evidence of identity for purposes of carrying out the
notarial acts mentioned in Section 1, Rule 4 of the RNP. The Supreme Court’s resolution issued on 19
February 2008 confirms this position when it excluded the community tax certificate from a list of
possible documents that can be presented to a notary public. The resolution reads:
Quoted hereunder, for your information, is a resolution of the Court En Banc dated February 19, 2008 .
"A.M. No. 02-8-13-SC-Re: 2004 Rules on Notarial Practice. The Court Resolved, upon the recommendation of the
Sub Committee on the Revision of the Rules Governing Notaries Public, to AMEND Sec. 12 (a). Rule II of the 2004
Rules on Notarial Practice, to wit:
Rule II
DEFINITIONS
xxx
"Sec. 12. Component Evidence of Identity. The phrase "competent evidence of identity" refers to the identification of
an individual based on:
(a) at least one current identification document issued by an official agency bearing the photograph and signature of
the individual, such as but not limited to, passport, driver’s license, Professional Regulations Commission ID,
National Bureau of Investigation clearance, police clearance, postal ID, voter’s ID, Barangay certification,
Government Service and Insurance System (GSIS) e-card, Social Security System (SSS) card, Philhealth
card, senior citizen card, Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) ID, OFW ID, seaman’s
book, alien certificate of registration/immigrant certificate of registration, government office ID,
certification from the National Council for the Welfare of Disable Persons (NCWDP), Department of
Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) certification; or
x----------------------x
(b) xxxx."
All other laws requiring its presentation for purposes of notarization are deemed amended owing to the
Supreme Court’s sole authority under the constitution to promulgate rules concerning the practice of
law in the country, including notarial practice that is now a lawyer’s exclusive work.
______________________________________________________________
AFFIDAVITS OF GOOD FAITH
This statement, jointly executed by the mortgage parties, is used only in chattel mortgage
contracts signifying that their agreement is valid and not for fraud. The absence of this affidavit can
render the contract void. This is a favorite form among examiners, as it will require examinees to
accomplish four (4) forms in one question.
Check the sample below:
1. (DRAFT OF BASIC CHATTEL MORTGAGE CONTRACT)
2. (ACKNOWLEDGMENT)
3. AFFIDAVIT OF GOOD FAITH
WE, the undersigned parties, under oath declare that:
1. We are the parties to the foregoing chattel mortgage; and,
2. We executed said mortgage in good faith to secure a valid obligation not for the purpose of
fraud.
9 January 2008, City of Manila.
(SGD.) Mortgagor (SGD.) Mortgagee
4. (JURAT)
______________________________________________________________
CERTIFICATIONS
Another common sworn statement is the corporate or partnership certification. Corporations

produce resolutions, which may be certified either by the Corporate Secretary or by the Directors
themselves. Such certifications are known as the Secretary's Certificate or Directors’ Certificate,
respectively. In case of the latter, the Directors who actually took part in the deliberation of the
resolution shall sign it. In the case of partnerships, the managing partner or all the partners sign the
certification.
Look at the sample certificate below executed by the corporate secretary:
SECRETARY'S CERTIFICATE
As corporate secretary, I certify that last 12 January 2008 the Board of Directors of the All-Star
Consumer Product Corporation met at its principal office in Makati City and passed the following
resolution which to date remains effective without amendments:
x----------------------x
"Resolved that the Corporation shall open and maintain a current account with Piso Bank
(Makati branch) and funds from it could be withdrawn with the signature of the President and the
Treasurer only."
Makati City, 5 January 2009.
(SGD). RODOLFO E. POLICARPIO

Corporate Secretary
(JURAT)
Look at the sample directors’ certificate below:

PAG-ASA TRI-FORUM NETWORK, INC.
Special Board of Directors’ Meeting held on
4 November 2007 at Room 109 ABC Building
2251 Pasong Tamo St., Makati City
Present:/Absent
All Board members are present in this special meeting called by the Chairman.
1. Approval of the Minutes:
The Board, upon motion made and duly seconded, approved to dispense with the reading of the minutes of
the previous meeting.
2. Appointment of Mr. Jose Antipuesto as General Manager.
The Chairman apprised the Board Members that the meeting was specifically called to discuss the proposal
to appoint a General Manager. There being a quorum, the following resolution was approved:
“RESOLVED, that the Board of Directors of PAG-ASA TRI-FORUM NETWORK, INC. appoints
Mr. BENJAMIN T. ANTIPUESTO as General Manager of the Corporation.”
“RESOLVED, FINALLY, that the Board authorizes Mr. ANTIPUESTO, whose signature appears
below, to deal, transact and otherwise sign checks, drafts and other banking documents with RCBC,
Tektite-Ortigas Branch”
(SGD.) BENJAMIN T. ANTIPUESTO
There being no other matters to be discussed, the meeting was adjourned at 2:00 PM.
(SGD.) RODRIGO L. ANTIMANO (SGD.) CONCEPCION E. ANTIMANO

Chairman Corporate Treasurer
Driver’s License NO2-123456 Driver’s License NO1-56789
(SGD.) FRITZEL A. DACCIA (SGD.) RONALD L. ANTIMANO

Corporate Secretary Member
Driver’s License NO1-098765 Driver’s License NO2-356890
(SGD.) MANUEL F. ANTIMANO

Member
Driver’s License NO1-345677
SIGNED AND SWORN to before me this 14 August 2008 at Manila, affiants exhibited to me their respective
competent evidences of identity stated above.
(NOTARIAL CERTIFICATE)
x----------------------x
II. DEED FORMS
A Deed Form indicates an agreement of at least two parties but made to appear as a unilateral act
of a person disposing his property or right in favor of another after his receipt of a consideration. The
transaction is terminated by the conveyance of the thing or right. A typical deed has the following parts:
Title, Announcement, First Party, Consideration, Act or Conveyance, Second Party, Signature and
Acknowledgment (Code: TAF-CAS-SA).
Observe these parts in the deed below.
DEED OF SALE OF MOTOR VEHICLE
THE PUBLIC IS ALERTED:
I, PROCOPIO C. CRUZ, of legal age, married, and residing at 12 Apo St., Quezon City, for and
in consideration of P100,000.00, hereby sell, convey, and transfer on an “as is where is” basis my motor
vehicle, more particularly described as follows:
Make: Toyota Corolla 2000; Motor: EMC14356C

Serial /Chassis: CDC042094, File: 2345567E
Reg. Cert.: 4567EC, Plate: UAP 863
to RICARDO LIM, of legal age, married, and residing at 2 Bangkal St., Manila.
SIGNED: 8 July 2008, Quezon City.
(SGD.) PROCOPIO C. CRUZ

Seller
With my consent:
(SGD.) Helen Y. Cruz

Spouse
(ACKNOWLEDGMENT)
NOTE:
If the act or conveyance is altered, the deed could be converted into another one. The operative
statement would change depending on what the examiner demands from the examinee. The common
deeds asked in the bar are deeds of assignment, donation inter vivos, easement of right of way, real
estate or chattel mortgage, and powers of attorney.
If you are asked to draft a deed of donation inter vivos, do not forget the acceptance of the donee
and the donor’s declaration that he reserved sufficient properties for himself and his creditors. The
operative statement that should be remembered would be something like below:
"for and in consideration of my love and respect for CARMINA DE JOYA, I do hereby transfer and convey by way
of donation”
Check out the sample donation deed below involving two corporations:
DONATION DEED
x----------------------x
SO THE PUBLIC MAY KNOW:

As President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of CELTA REALTY DEVELOPMENT
CORPORATION (CRDC), a domestic corporation created and existing under Philippine laws holding office at
1452 P. Burgos Street, Bel-Air, Makati City, I, CONCEPCION C. TRINIDAD, Filipino, of legal age, holding office at
the above address and duly authorized for this purpose, as shown by the attached authority, in consideration of
our continuing solidarity with the Baptist ministers, do hereby surrender, transfer and convey by way of donation
in favor of CAYLAWAY BAPTIST CHURCH, INC. (CBCI), a religious corporation created and existing under
Philippine laws with principal office located at Bgy. Caylaway, Batulao, Nasugbu, with powers to receive, hold and
administer properties donated to it for the furtherance of its religious and charitable purposes, the parcel of land
described as follows:
(Technical description)
I warrant that CRDC has reserved for it in full ownership other properties sufficient for its continued
existence and for its creditors’ protection and I will surrender in CBCI's favor all documents necessary to facilitate
the transfer of the property in its name.
SIGNED on 9 November 2006, in Makati City.
CELTA REALTY DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

Donor
By:
(SGD.) CONCEPCION C. TRINIDAD
ACCEPTANCE
On CBCI’s behalf, I, High Minister REDENTOR C. INANTES, duly authorized for this purpose as shown
by the attached authority, do hereby accept the foregoing donation of the above-described property even as I
express the corporation’s sincere appreciation and gratitude to CRDC, its stockholders, officers and staff for the
kindness and solidarity they have shown by virtue of this act.
SIGNED on 9 November 2006, in Makati City.
CAYLAWAY BAPTIST CHURCH, INC.

Donee
By:
(SGD.) REDENTOR C. INANTES
Witnessed by:
(SGD.) JOSE C. AMOS (SGD.) BENEDICTO S. PAPA
(Acknowledgment)
Check out the following operative statements for the following specific deeds:
In a Deed of Repurchase of Land sold under Pacto de Retro:

"for and in consideration of the amount of P1 million, do hereby RESELL, RETRANSFER, and
RECONVEY"
In a Deed of Assignment:
"for and in consideration of the sum of P50,000 do hereby ASSIGN, TRANSFER, AND CONVEY"
In an Easement of Right of Way:

"for and in consideration of the sum of P1 million, do hereby agree and permit Ramon Santos a
permanent easement of right of way over my above property not to exceed two meters wide"
x----------------------x
In Extrajudicial Settlement Among Heirs:

"the parties hereby agree to divide and adjudicate among themselves the above described property as
follows"
If you are asked to draft a power of attorney, determine the intent of the principal from the
problem. A Special Power of Attorney should be drafted if the principal's intent is to empower the agent
to perform ACTS OF DISPOSITION (sale, mortgage, lease, etc.), otherwise if only ACTS OF
ADMINISTRATION is intended, a General Power of Attorney would suffice.
A special form of deed is the last will. In the absence of any qualification by the examiner, a
holographic will is recommended to be drafted since its requirements are simpler, i.e. it should only be
entirely written, dated, and signed by the hand of the testator himself. (Cf. Art. 810, Civil Code)
Otherwise, remember the requirements of a notarial will under Articles 805-806 of the Civil Code.
Consider the sample will below.
MY LAST WILL
It is my wish that upon my death, everything I own be given

to my only child named Eduardo L. Montinola, Jr.
(SGD.) Eduardo L. Montinola, Sr.
17 September 2004, Manila
III. CONTRACT FORMS
Just like deed forms, contract forms reflect an agreement of at least two parties. The major
difference in this form is that contract forms reveal each of the parties’ specific undertakings. In using,
therefore, contract forms, you must demonstrate the specific obligations of the parties apart from
ensuring the presence of the essential requirements of object, consideration, and consent in all
contracts. Take also into consideration the peculiarities of specific contracts. A contract template
usually has the following parts: Title, Announcement, Actors, Recitals, Agreement, Conditions,
Signatories and Acknowledgment. (Code: TAA-RAC-SA)
Observe these parts in the contract below.

CONTRACT OF SERVICE
This Agreement executed between:
TOMAS S. BALATAN, Filipino, of legal age, and residing at 1435 Mindanao Avenue, Quezon City;
- and -
JUAN N. BUELTA, Filipino, of legal age, and residing at 789 Craig St., Sampaloc, Manila;
Antecedents:
x----------------------x
TOMAS owns a house and lot at the above given address and his property requires the prompt
installation of a deep well;
JUAN is engaged by the business of supplying and installing deep wells to draw potable water and has
expressed his willingness to service the requirements of TOMAS under certain terms and conditions;
Consequently, in consideration of the terms and conditions stated below, the Parties mutually agree as
follows:
1. TOMAS shall pay JUAN the sum of Pesos: Forty Thousand (P40,000.00) for both materials and labor
cost payable as follows:
1.1. Pesos: Fifteen Thousand (P15,000.00) upon signing this contract;
1.2. The balance shall be paid upon delivery to TOMAS of the completely functional deep well utility.
2. JUAN warrants that the deep well it shall install and deliver to TOMAS shall be free from hidden
defects and against poor worksmanship.
3. JUAN assures TOMAS that the deep well shall yield the normal volume of potable water for a standard
family of six (6). Otherwise, the JUAN undertakes to re-do the work at no cost to TOMAS. Should the project be
redone that will require installation of extra pipes of at least 12 feet long, TOMAS shall defray the cost of the
materials.
The deficiency of this contract shall be supplemented by the provision of existing law.
SIGNED: 17 August 2008, City of Manila.
(SGD.) TOMAS S. BALATAN (SGD.) JUAN N. BUELTA
Signed in the presence of:
(SGD.) JACINTO C. TIRAPA (SGD.) FELICITO F. NANLUMO
(ACKNOWLEDGMENT)
COMPROMISES
Another document that one may draft using the contract form would be compromises. Article
2028 of the Civil Code defines a compromise as “a contract whereby the parties, by making reciprocal
concessions, avoid a litigation or put an end to one already commenced.” Because a compromise is
essentially a contract, the label “compromise agreement” is altogether redundant.
Check out the sample compromise below:
COMPROMISE
This agreement executed among:
LARRY R. LUZ, Filipino, of legal age, married, and residing at 13 Pinecircle Street, Vista Verde Country
Homes, Cainta, Rizal;
SUPERHEM CONSUMER PRODUCTS, INC., (SUPERHEM) a corporation duly organized and existing
under Philippine laws with principal office located at 9/F Pacific Star Building, Makati Avenue corner Sen. Gil Puyat
Avenue, Makati City, represented by its President, RICARDO R. COLARINA, duly authorized for this purpose, as
shown by the attached authority;
x----------------------x
-and-
RICARDO R. COLARINA, JUAN A. DELA CRUZ, JUANA FE C. DELA PEÑA, RONALDO B. JOSE, and
ONOFRE G. REYES, all Filipinos, of legal ages, and all holding offices at Building D, JY & Sons Compound,
Veterans Center, Taguig City, as Superhem’s Directors/Stockholders.
- Antecedents -
Larry filed a complaint against Superhem and its directors before the Regional Trial Court of Makati City,
Branch 61, docketed as Civil Case 06-973 for a number of issues arising from the issuance and implementation of a
questionable Board resolution dated 12 July 2004 that prejudiced him. Superhem and its directors have since filed
their answer to his complaint.
Later, the Court referred the parties to mediation pursuant to existing rules. After several discussions and
negotiations through the parties’ chosen mediator, they have jointly and amicably settled their differences subject to
certain conditions.
ACCORDINGLY, for and in consideration of the foregoing premises, the parties agree as follows:
A. SUPERHEM’s Obligations:
1. To pay Larry the sum of PhP600,000.00 cash upon execution of this compromise on 30 May 2006.
2. To execute a deed of sale through its authorized representative that would transfer its full ownership in
Henry’s favor over a motor vehicle described below:
Make Honda Accord

Model 2004
Type Sedan
Color Blue Silver
Motor Number PALP5-Y00558
Serial/Chasis Number PADCF9630YV200552
Plate Number WMB-888
B. Directors-Stockholders’ Obligations:
1. To jointly execute a quitclaim in Larry’s favor releasing him and forever discharging him from any claim,
cause of action, or any further obligation in connection with his involvement as Prochem’s director, stockholder and
officer.
2. To assume Larry’s stock subscriptions in Superhem at its par value.
C. Larry’s Obligations:
1. To receive the amount and other documents stated in both items A and B above.
2. To execute any and all documents to fully transfer and convey his stock subscriptions in favor of his co-
directors-stockholders consistent with item B-2 to expedite his complete dissociation from Superhem.
3. To execute a quitclaim in Superhem’s favor and its directors and officers releasing and forever
discharging them from any claim, cause of action, or any further obligation in connection with his involvement as
Superhem’s director, stockholder and officer.
D. Common Obligations:
1. Within a reasonable time after the execution of this compromise, the parties agree to jointly move the
Makati City Regional Trial Court to render judgment in the pending suit (Civil Case 04-973) based on the particulars
stated in this agreement; and,
2. The parties further agree to forever waive all other claims and counterclaims against each other in the
form of damages, attorney's fees and costs of suit.
Signed this 17 May 2006 in Makati City.

Quick Reviewer on Legal Forms - 10 -
x----------------------x
(SGD.)LARRY R. LUZ SUPERHEM CONSUMER PRODUCTS, INC.

BY: (SGD.) RICARDO R. COLARINA
(also for himself)
(SGD.) JUAN A. DELA CRUZ,
(SGD.)JUANA FE C. DELA PEÑA
(SGD.)RONALDO B. JOSE
(SGD.)ONOFRE G. REYES
Witnessed and Assisted by:
(SGD.) Hon. RUEL JOSEPH V. ESGUERRA, Mediator
ACKNOWLEDGMENT (COMMON TO ALL DEED & CONTRACT FORMS)
Section 1, Rule II of the 2004 RNP defined acknowledgment as an act in which an individual on
a single occasion:
(a) appears in person before the notary public and presents an integrally complete instrument or
document;
(b) is attested to be personally known to the notary public or identified by the notary public
through competent evidence of identity as defined by the Rules; and,
(c) represents to the notary public that the signature on the instrument or document was
voluntarily affixed by him for the purposes stated in the instrument or document, declares that he
has executed the instrument or document as his free and voluntary act and deed, and, if he acts in
a particular representative capacity, that he has the authority to sign in that capacity.
From the foregoing, it becomes clear that a notary public speaks in this part of the deed or
contract. He confirms that each of the acts mentioned above took place in one occasion.
Take a look at the sample acknowledgment below.
ACKNOWLEDGMENT
BEFORE ME, personally appeared:
Name Passport Date/ Place Issued

1. Tomas S. Balatan CC123330 1-05-2006/ Baguio City
2. Juan N. Buelta JJ200345 1-17-2007/ Manila
They are known to me to be the same persons who presented the foregoing contract and acknowledged to me that
the signatures they affixed in it are their voluntary acts for the purposes stated in their document.
SIGNED AND SEALED in Manila, 15 August 2008.
(SGD) Juan C. Mendoza

Notary Public for Manila
Suite 212 Burke Building, Escolta, Manila
Until Dec. 31, 2008
PTR 56789; 1-12-08; Manila
IBP 24680; 1-12-08; Manila
Doc. 12;
Page 8;
x----------------------x
Book II;
Series of 2008.
(Special Requirement in Conveyance of Real Property pursuant to Act 496, as

amended)
This paragraph should be added before the notary public’s signature:
This deed/contract relates to the sale of a parcel of land situated in Quezon City consisting of two (2) pages
including this where the acknowledgment is stated and was signed by the parties and their witnesses in the left margin
of every page.
(Special form of acknowledgment for notarial wills)
JOINT ACKNOWLEDGMENT
Name Passports Date/ Place Issued

1. Tomas S. Balatan CC123330 1-05-2004/ Baguio City
2. Juan N. Buelta JJ200345 1-17-2005/ Manila
3. Enrique C. Abergas BB947556 4-23-2006/ Manila
4. Marivic J. Cabron DC234348 8-14-2005/ Manila
all known to me to be the same persons who signed the foregoing Will, the first as Testator, and the last three as
instrumental witnesses, and they respectively acknowledged to me that they signed the same as their own free deed.
This will consists of two pages, including the page on which this acknowledgment is written, and has been
signed on the left margin of each and every page of it by the testator and his witnesses, and sealed with my notarial
seal.
SIGNED AND SEALED on 16 August 2007, Manila.
(Add the notarial certificate)
(Special form of acknowledgment if deed/contract executed by a corporation)
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Name Competent Evidence of Date/ Place Issued

Identification
1. Tomas S. Balatan, Passport CC123330 1-05-2005 / Baguio City

President of True All-Star,
Inc.
2. Juan N. Buelta, Passport JJ200345 1-17-2005 / Manila

President of Right Pak,
Inc.
known to me to be the same persons who presented and executed the foregoing contract on behalf of the
corporations they represent and acknowledged to me that the same is their voluntary acts and that of the corporation
being represented.
SIGNED AND SEALED in Manila, 17 August 2007.
(Add Notarial Certificate)

x----------------------x
NOTE:
*Based on Section 1, Rule II of the 2004 RNP, only individuals can be parties in the
acknowledgment process. Corporations cannot take part in the process even if they are the real party to
the contract or deed. If a corporation is a party to the contract, its representative must act for it
and must so indicate in the acknowledgment that he acts in such representative capacity. Unless
required, it is advisable to simply refer in the drafted deed or contract the specific authority of the
corporation’s representative.
*The absence of an acknowledgment will not render the contract or deed void except when
the law requires that a contract be in some form in order that it may be valid or enforceable like acts
and contracts which have for their object the creation, transmission, modification or extinguishment of
real rights over immovable property; sales of real property or of an interest in it which under the law
must appear in a public instrument. An acknowledgment, therefore, in these special cases is a must.
B. JUDICIAL FORMS
A typical judicial form takes a single pattern and has the following parts: (1) Caption; (2) Title
(3) Introduction; (4) Body; (5) Relief; (6) Attorney’s Box; and (7) Addenda. (Code: Cap-TIBRA-A)
The caption sets forth the name of the court, the title of the action and the docket number if assigned.
(Cf. Section 1, Rule 7, Rules of Court) The title referred here is the title of the document, either
complaint, petition, motion, opposition, answer, reply, etc.
The Introduction presents the writing party to the reader. The Body sets forth its designation, the
allegations of the party’s claims and defenses and the date of the pleading. The Relief box indicates the
specific relief sought by the party including the general prayer for further relief as may be deemed just
and equitable.
The Attorney’s box indicates the name and signature of the lawyer, his office address (not post
office box), his Integrated Bar of the Philippines and professional tax receipt numbers and roll number.
The latest Supreme Court circular (AM No. 07-6-5-SC, 10 July 2007) also requires the inclusion of the
parties and lawyer’s contact details, e.g., telephone number, fax number, cellular phone number, or e-
mail address in all papers and pleadings filed with the Supreme Court. A counsel’s failure to
indicate his roll number renders the document a scrap of paper. An unsigned pleading produces no legal
effect. A lawyer’s signature is a certification that: he has read the pleading; to the best of his
knowledge, information, and belief, there is a good ground to support it; and that it is not interposed for
delay. Note also that Bar Matter 1922 dated 3 June 2008 requires practicing members of the bar to
indicate in all pleadings filed before the courts or quasi-judicial bodies, the number and date of issue of
their MCLE Compliance or Exemption Certificates, as may be applicable, for the immediately
preceding compliance period. Failure to disclose the required information would cause the dismissal of
the case and the expunction of the pleadings from the records.
The Addenda to these documents usually vary depending on the judicial form being drafted.
Observe these parts from the samples below.
I. COMPLAINTS
Rule 6 of the Rules of Court, as amended, has consistently required that complaints be concise
enough to contain mere ultimate facts of a plaintiff’s cause/s of action. The body of the complaint is
most important. In Javelosa vs. Court of Appeals, (G.R. 124292, 265 SCRA 493 [1996]), the Supreme
Court held that “what determines the nature of an action, as well as which court or body has
x----------------------x
jurisdiction over it, are the allegations of the complaint and the character of the relief sought.” In this
regard, the body of the complaint usually has two parts: the identity of the parties and the cause of
action (a statement of the right of the plaintiff and a statement of the defendant's violation of such
right). Note that in Manchester Development Corporation, et al. vs. Court of Appeals, et al. (G.R.
75919, 7 May 1987), the Supreme Court held that “all complaints, petitions, answers and other similar
pleadings should specify the amount of damages being prayed for not only in the body of the pleading
but also in the prayer, and said damages shall be considered in the assessment of the filing fees in any
case. Any pleading that fails to comply with this requirement shall not be accepted nor admitted, or
shall otherwise be expunged from the record.”
The addenda in a complaint are the verification (when required by the rules) and the certification
of non-forum shopping (mandatory).
(1) Republic of the Philippines

METROPOLITAN TRIAL COURT
National Capital Judicial Region
Branch 13, Manila
PEDRO C. LABO,
Plaintiff,
- versus - Civil Case: 5432

FOR: Unlawful Detainer
JOSE B. LINAW,
Defendant.
x-------------------x
(2) COMPLAINT
(3) Plaintiff, by counsel, states:
(4) The Parties
1. Pedro is a Filipino, single, and resides at 143 Vicente Cruz St., Sampaloc, Manila.
2. Jose, on the other hand, is a Filipino, married, and resides at 789 Mayhaligue St. Binondo, Manila, where
he may be served with summons and other court processes.
Causes of Action
3. The parties executed a lease contract on 28 August 2005 for Jose’s use of a house and lot owned by Pedro
located in Binondo. A copy of this contract is attached as Annex A. Part of the agreement is the payment of monthly rent
in the amount of PhP15,000.00.
4. While initially Jose paid his obligation, he suddenly breached his undertaking by not paying his rental
beginning January 2007. Oral and written demands to pay his obligation fell on deaf ears. To date, his unpaid obligation
ballooned to PhP120,000.00. A copy of the last demand letter urging him to pay his arrears and vacate the premises is
attached as Annex B, while a copy of his latest unpaid billing is enclosed as Annex C.
5. Because of Jose’s unjustified refusal to heed his just demands, Pedro was constrained to institute this suit,
incur litigation expenses to be proved during trial and retain the services of a lawyer for a fee of PhP40,000.00, all of
which he deserves to be reimbursed.
(5) Relief
ACCORDINGLY, Pedro asks that judgment be rendered ordering Jose and all other persons acting on his
behalf to:
x----------------------x
1. Vacate the house and lot subject of this complaint;

2. Pay plaintiff the sum of PhP120,000.00 as unpaid rentals with legal interest from the date the complaint is
filed; and,
3. Pay him litigation expenses and attorney’s fees of PhP40,000.00.
Other reliefs just and equitable are also prayed for.
(6) (SGD.) MARCELO B. FERNANDO

Counsel for Plaintiff
Suite 1234 Richmond Tower
E. Rodriguez Avenue, Quezon City
MCLE Compliance Certificate II; 5-11-08
IBP 14344; 1-19-07; Quezon City
PTR 867765; 1-20-07; Quezon City
(7) VERIFICATION/CERTIFICATION - See below
NOTE:
State in a chronological manner the facts constituting the plaintiff's cause or causes of
action. If the action is based on an actionable document, the document or its portions must be
copied and its copy be made an integral part of the complaint by way of an annex properly
marked. In unlawful detainer cases, a prior demand to vacate must be asserted.
In proper cases, do not forget to make an averment regarding the plaintiff's prior referral to
the LUPON of the Barangay in compliance to the Local Government Code. The barangay
certification must be attached.
In case the action is between members of the family within the meaning of the Family
Code, an allegation must be made that earnest efforts to strike a compromise were made but
proved futile.
ADDENDUM TO COMPLAINTS AND PETITIONS:
VERIFICATION/CERTIFICATION. Verifications are required only in cases provided for by the Rules of
Court and other circulars. (Cf. Section 4, Rule 7, 1997 Rules on Civil Procedure). The revised rules on
summary procedure for instance require that all pleadings be verified. (Cf. Section 3 (B) (II), revised
rules on summary procedure)
Certifications against forum shopping are necessary in complaints or other initiatory pleadings
(Cf. Section 5, Rule 7, 1997 Rules on Civil Procedure). A counsel cannot certify against forum
shopping; it should be the plaintiff. A certification against forum shopping by counsel is a defective
certification. It is clearly equivalent to non-compliance with the requirement under the rules and
constitutes a valid cause for dismissal of the complaint or petition. (Cf. Far Eastern Shipping Company
vs. Court of Appeals, et al., G.R. 130068, 1 October 1998) If the plaintiff is a corporation, its
authorized officers should sign it. Failure to comply with this requirement is a cause for dismissal of
the action but only upon motion and hearing. The defect is not curable by amendment. (Cf. Barroso v.
Ampig, Jr., 328 SCRA 530) Since verifications and certifications against forum-shopping are required
to be under oath, they are usually combined to avoid repetitive process.
x----------------------x
See the sample below:

Verification/Certification
I, Pedro Labo, state under oath that I have read the above complaint and the allegations in it are true and
correct of my personal knowledge and/or based on authentic record. I also certify under oath (a) that I have not
previously filed any action involving the same issues in any court, tribunal or quasi-judicial agency; (b) that, to the best
of my knowledge, no such action is pending in any of them; and (c) if I should learn of the filing of such action, I shall
report it to the court within five days from notice.

(SGD.) PEDRO C. LABO
Affiant
(JURAT)
PETITIONS FOR THE RECONSTITUTION OF TITLE – Review Section 12 of RA 26 for this

purpose.
Republic of the Philippines

REGIONAL TRIAL COURT
Branch 4, Manila
IN THE MATTER OF THE RECONSTITUTION

OF THE ORIGINAL OF TCT 1234-E
ISSUED BY THE REGISTER OF DEEDS OF
MANILA,
LRC Case 98765
FIDEL V. REVENECIA,
Petitioner.
x------------------------------------x
PETITION
Petitioner, by counsel, respectfully states:
1. Fidel is a Filipino, of legal age and residing at 1878 Ma. Clara Street, Sampaloc, Manila.
2. He owns a parcel of land located in Manila particularly described in TCT 1234-E issued by the
Register of Deeds of Manila as follows:
(Copy of Technical Description)
A copy of the TCT is enclosed as Annex A.
3. This parcel is declared for tax purposes under tax declaration 45678E of the City Assessor of Manila,
a copy attached as Annex B.
4. The realty taxes on the property are up to date.
5. The original of that TCT was lost with the Register of Deeds of Manila in the fire that gutted the
Register of Deeds last 4 January 2006, a certification to that effect is attached as Annex C.
6. At the time of loss of this TCT, no transaction is pending registration with the Register of Deeds of
Manila.
7. Not only is the property described above in his possession, but also the owners' duplicate of the
certificate of title. To date, no other duplicate copy has been issued in favor of another.
8. The names and addresses of the owners of the adjoining properties are as follows:
Adjoining Owners Address

a. Ricardo A. Zumel 1876 Ma. Clara St., Sampaloc, Manila
x----------------------x
b. Bonifacio C. Gallego 1890 Ma. Clara St., Sampaloc, Manila
ACCORDINGLY, Fidel asks that after due notice and hearing, an order be issued directing the Register of
Deeds of Manila to issue him a new title for TCT 1234-E.
(Attorney’s Box)
(VERIFICATION/CERTIFICATION)
PETITION FOR THE ISSUANCE OF A NEW OWNER'S DUPLICATE OF A SPECIFIC

TITLE. Review Section 109 of PD 1529.
(CAPTION)
IN THE MATTER OF THE ISSUANCE

OF A NEW OWNER'S DUPLICATE
OF TCT 1234-E ISSUED BY
THE REGISTER OF DEEDS, MANILA,
LRDC Case 9876
FIDEL V. REVENECIA,
Petitioner.
x----------------------x
PETITION
Petitioner, by counsel, respectfully states:
1. (Averments in #1-4 above are equally applicable).
5. He used to keep the owner's duplicate of that certificate in his filing cabinet.
6. While he was looking for it, however, he could not find it despite all efforts exerted.
7. He executed and filed with the Register of Deeds of Manila an affidavit of loss, copy enclosed as Annex
C.
8. He has not delivered the owner's duplicate to any other person to secure an obligation.
ACCORDINGLY, Fidel asks that after due notice and hearing, an order be issued declaring the lost
owner's duplicate null and void and directing the Register of Deeds of Manila to issue him a new owner's duplicate
of TCT 1234-E in lieu of the lost one.
(Attorney’s Box)
(VERIFICATION/CERTIFICATION)
II. ANSWERS. Another common judicial form is the answer. (Cf. Sec. 4, Rule 6, Rules of Court, as
amended) The body of an answer usually has three parts: (a) the admissions and denials, (b) the
defenses, and (c) the counterclaim. The addendum in an answer is a statement of copy furnished the
adverse party. When an actionable document has to be denied, the verification has to be added to the
answer. If it includes a permissible counterclaim, a certification of non-forum shopping must also be
added. Study the template below.
(Caption)
ANSWER
Defendant Jose C. Linaw (Jose), by counsel, states:

x----------------------x
Admission and Denials
 State the paragraphs in the complaint that you admit or deny.
1. He admits paragraphs 1, 2 and 3 of the complaint.
2. The rest of the paragraphs are denied, the truth being that stated in his special and affirmative
defenses.
Special and Affirmative Defenses
 [Review Section 5, Rule 6 of the Rules of Court.]
3. The foregoing allegations are repleaded by reference.
4. The claim that Jose breached his obligation with Pedro is groundless. To be sure, his rental payments have
all been received by Pedro’s wife, Clarissa, as shown by the receipts she herself issued. Jose never doubted Clarissa’s
authority to receive his payments as the latter produced a special power of attorney authorizing her to collect the rent.
Compulsory Counterclaim
 [Here, state the defendant’s assertions of fact constituting his claim against
the plaintiff, which arises out of or is connected with the transaction or
occurrence constituting the subject matter of opposing party’s claim. (Cf.
Section 7, Rule 6, Rules of Court, as amended) A compulsory counterclaim if
not set-up is barred.]
5. The foregoing allegations are repleaded by reference.
6. Because of the institution of this baseless and malicious action, Jose’s reputation was besmirched for which
he deserves to recover PhP100,000.00 as moral damages. To deter others from filing similar baseless suits, Pedro must
be ordered to pay PhP100,000.00 as exemplary damages.
7. And for having been compelled to defend himself against this utterly baseless action, defendants are entitled
to a PhP50,000.00 award of attorney’s fees, which he had agreed to compensate his counsel and to reimbursement for
expenses of litigation.
Relief
ACCORDINGLY, Jose asks that after hearing, judgment be rendered in this case dismissing Pedro’s complaint
for lack of merit and ordering him to pay Jose moral and exemplary damages for a total of P200,000.00 plus attorney’s
fees of P50,000.00 and such expenses of litigation as he may prove during the trial.
Manila, 2 September 2009.
(Attorney’s Box)
(Verification)
[Per Section 4, Rule 70 of the Rules of Court]
Copy furnished:
MARCELO B. FERNANDO
Counsel for Plaintiff
Suite 1234 Richmond Tower
E. Rodriguez Ave., Quezon City
x----------------------x
III. MOTIONS (Cf. Rules 15 and 16, Rules of Court, as amended) The Body of a motion usually has
two parts: the ground for the motion and the argument in support of the motion. Motions can either be
litigated or non-litigated.
Sample Motion 1 (Litigated)
(CAPTION)
MOTION TO DISMISS
Defendant Jose B. Linaw, by counsel, moves to dismiss the complaint filed by Pedro C. Labo on the sole
ground that the venue of the litigation is improperly laid.
Argument
The contract between the parties declares that in case litigation becomes inevitable, “all cases shall be
brought before the proper court of Pasig City to the exclusion of all others.” By filing the complaint before this court
in Manila, a place obviously convenient to Pedro, he violates the clear tenor of his agreement with Jose.
Consequently, a prompt dismissal of the case becomes necessary.
Relief
ACCORDINGLY, Jose requests that Pedro’s complaint be dismissed forthwith.
[Explanation: Due to constraints in distance and time, a copy of this motion shall be served by registered
mail.]
(Required under Section 11, Rule 13, Rules of Court, as amended. A violation of this
requirement “may be cause to consider the paper as not filed.” See: Solar Team
Entertainment, Inc. v. Hon. Helen Bautista Ricafort, et al. G.R. 132007, 5 August 1998. Section
11 of Rule 13 gives the court the discretion to consider a pleading or paper as not filed if the
other modes of service or filing were not resorted to and no written explanation was made as to
why personal service was not done in the first place. The exercise of discretion must, necessarily
consider the practicability of personal service, for Section 11 itself begins with the clause
“whenever practicable”.
7 March 2007, Quezon City for Manila.
(Attorney’s Box)
(Notice of Hearing) – See Below

____________________________________________________________________________
Sample Motion 2 (Non-litigated)
(CAPTION)
MOTION TO RESET
Plaintiff Pedro C. Labo, by counsel, states:
1. The Court ordered the resumption of hearing in this case on 20 August 2007 at 8:30 in the morning.
x----------------------x
2. Unfortunately, on that date and time, the undersigned counsel has committed to attend another case
entitled: Labo vs. Bawi (Civil Case 23456) before the Regional Trial Court of Manila, Branch 42, the schedule of
which was set before this.
ACCORDINGLY, Pedro requests that the hearing set on 20 August 2003 be cancelled and moved to a later
date preferably on 8 September 2003 or any date convenient to the Court and the adverse party.
[Explanation: Due to lack of time and manpower, a copy of this motion shall be served by registered mail.]
(Attorney’s box)
(Notice of Hearing)- See below
ADDENDUM TO MOTIONS.
NOTICES OF HEARING.
The Rules of Court requires that the notice should be directed to the parties (counsel included)
NOT TO THE CLERK OF COURT. Otherwise, the motion shall be considered a sham or a mere scrap
of paper (Cf. Mesina, et al. vs. Court of Appeals, G.R.110946, 24 October 1994). Moreover, the rules
provide that the motion day and time be on Friday at 2:00 o’clock in the afternoon. While in actual
practice this rule is usually observed in the breach, you are expected to conform strictly to this
requirement as a Bar examinee. Motions are either litigated or not. Non-litigious motions are those that
may be acted upon by the Court without further argument like a motion to reset or a motion for
postponement. All other motions are litigated and should be acted upon after due hearing.
Check the sample notice below.

(ASSUME THAT PARTS 1-6 OF A MOTION TEMPLATE HAVE BEEN DRAFTED)
Notice and Copy furnished:
Atty. PEDRO PENDUKO

Counsel for the Defendant
Suite 210 Makati Executive Center
Herrera St., Salcedo Village, Makati City
The undersigned shall submit the foregoing motion for the Court’s resolution on 20 August 2002, Friday, at
2:00 o’clock in the afternoon.
(or if a non-litigated motion)
Due to the non-litigious character of the foregoing motion, please submit the same to the Court for its
immediate consideration and approval.
(SGD.) KRISPULO Y. MARQUEZ
IV. COMPLAINT-AFFIDAVITS. These forms are resorted to initiate criminal proceedings. In this
regard, recall the issues in the drafting affidavits. Then see the sample below. Note that the usual jurat
x----------------------x
has been changed because the complainant or the respondent would take an oath or affirmation before a
public prosecutor or any officer authorized to conduct preliminary investigation.

OFFICE OF THE CITY PROSECUTOR
Department of Justice
Manila
EDGARDO S. SOTTO,
Complainant,
- versus - I.S. : 123456

For: Violation of BP 22
WIGBERTO B. MACEDA,
Respondent.
x --------------------x
COMPLAINT
I, Edgardo S. Sotto, of legal age, residing at 143 Love Lane Avenue, PAG-IBIG Homes, Manila, under oath,
declare that:
 [In all the paragraphs of the affidavit, state the facts in chronology that constitutes the
various elements of the crime charged. Look at the sample below.]
1. Respondent Wigberto Maceda is a Filipino, of legal age, a resident of Block 124 Lot 17 Phase III, Palipanan
Site, Dasmariñas, Cavite.
2. Sometime in January 2005, Wigberto purchased several computer parts from me for a total amount of
Pesos: Three Hundred Sixty Seven Thousand Nine Hundred (P367,900.00);
3. In payment for the goods, Wigberto drew and delivered to me in my Manila office, a check particularly
described as follows: PilipinasBank-Dasmariñas, Cavite Branch, Check 12345 dated 19 March 2005 for P367,900.00.
4. Upon deposit of the check when it fell due, his bank dishonored the check for having been drawn against
insufficient fund. A copy of the check, stamped with the proper reason for dishonor, is attached as Annex A.
5. Despite repeated demands, Wigberto failed to replace the check and pay the amount stated in it plus
interest of 12% per annum. As a result, I engaged the services of counsel who demanded in writing the payment of
his obligation. A copy of this last demand together with my proof of service are attached as Annexes B, C, and C-1;
respectively.
6. Constrained to institute this criminal complaint against Wigberto, I suffered actual damages in the amount
stated above. I also undertook to pay my counsel for his services the sum of P75,000.00 on top of the litigation
expenses I incurred in connection with this case, the amount of which I shall prove during trial.
7. I execute this affidavit to confirm the truth of the foregoing and to support my complaint against Wigberto for
violation of Section 1 of Batas Pambansa 22.
City of Manila, 7 June 2007.
(SGD.) EDGARDO S. SOTTO

Affiant
SIGNED AND SWORN TO before me this 28 June 2007.
(SGD.) MAGNOLIA C. BUSTAMANTE

Assistant City Prosecutor
*Complaint-affidavits or counter-affidavits are usually sworn before a prosecutor. The rules,

however, allow oath-taking before a notary public. When they are before a notary public, the rules
x----------------------x
require a notary to certify that “he personally examined the affiants and that he is satisfied that they
voluntarily executed and understood their affidavits” (Cf. Sec.3(a) Rule 112, Rules of Court, as
amended)
V. INFORMATIONS. In drafting informations, one should recall the material distinctions among the
various stages of execution of crimes. A felony is consummated when all the elements necessary for its
execution and accomplishment are present; and it is frustrated when the offender performs all the acts
of execution, which would produce the felony as a consequence but which, nevertheless, do not
produce it by reason of causes independent of the will of the perpetrator. There is an attempt when the
offender commences the commission of a felony directly by overt acts, and does not perform all the
acts of execution which should produce the felony by reason of some cause or accident other than this
own spontaneous desistance. Notice that the information does not have a relief portion because it is
presumed that the prosecution would be asking for the appropriate penalty provided by law. One need
not state the obvious. For informations, the addenda would be: the list of witnesses; the recommended
bail; and, the prosecutor’s certification.
Take a look at the sample below.

Branch 42, MANILA
PEOPLE OF THE PHILIPPINES,

Plaintiff,
- versus - Criminal Case: 123456
FEDERICO B. CORCOLON,
Accused.
x------------------------x
INFORMATION
The undersigned prosecutor accuses FEDERICO B. CORCOLON of the crime of robbery, committed as
follows:
On or about 14 February 2003 in the City of Manila, the accused did then and there willfully, unlawfully and
feloniously with intent of gain and without the owner’s consent took and stole the Persian Mariana gold necklace of
Gregorio Morales valued at PhP75,000.00 by forcing open with an ice pick the personal vault where the necklace is
located to the damage and prejudice of the owner.
CONTRARY TO LAW.
14 June 2003, Manila

(SGD) NARCISO N. PEREZ
Assistant Prosecutor
Witnesses: Pamela Banos, 12 Singalong St. Manila

Tracy Buyas, 14 Singalong St, Manila
Bail Recommended: P8,000.00
CERTIFICATION
I hereby certify that: the preliminary investigation in this case has been conducted; I have examined the
complainant and his witnesses and on the basis of their sworn statements and other evidence submitted before me
there is reasonable ground to believe that the offense charged has been committed; the accused was informed of the
x----------------------x
complaint and was given an opportunity to submit controverting evidence and that the filing of this information was with
the authority of the City Prosecutor.
NARCISO N. PEREZ
SUBSCRIBED AND SWORN to before me this 27 July 2003 in the City of Manila.
JOSE C. BUSTOS
Administering officer
ADDITIONAL INPUTS
A notary public under the new rules is empowered to perform the following notarial acts: (a)
acknowledgments; (b) oaths and affirmations; (c) jurats; (d) signature witnessings; (e) copy
certifications; and (f) any other act authorized by these Rules (Cf. Section 1, Rule 4, 2004 RNP).
1. The 2004 RNP has an impact on drafting legal documents. Please note for your consideration
the following samples of legal documents that may be required pursuant to these new rules:
A. Sample Petition for Notarial Commission (conformably with the new rules)

Fourth Judicial Region
Lucena City
IN RE: PETITION FOR APPOINTMENT AS

NOTARY PUBLIC FOR AND IN LUCENA CITY
JUAN C. DELA ROSA,

Petitioner. Adm. Matter 2005-123
x - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -x
PETITION
Petitioner JUAN C. DELA ROSA, respectfully states:

1. He is a Filipino citizen, twenty eight (28) years of age, having been born on 21 May 1977 and has been
residing in the Philippines since birth particularly at 343 Teresa Street, Vista Monte Subdivision, Lucban, Quezon
where he also holds office, well within the court’s jurisdiction. His contact numbers here are (042)5404977.
2. He obtained a degree in law from the San Sebastian College in Manila and had been certified by the
Supreme Court in May 2005 as a member of the Philippine Bar under Roll of Attorney 50762 after he passed the Bar
examination administered in September 2004. A copy of his certificate of admission to the Philippine Bar is attached
as Annex A.
3. He is of good moral character and has not been criminally charged with, much more, convicted of any
crime involving moral turpitude. He has no pending administrative case before the Supreme Court’s Office of the Bar
Confidant. A copy of his certificate of good standing issued by the Bar Confidant is attached as Annex B. In addition,
two (2) members of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) chapter in Lucena City have vouched for his good
moral character as confirmed by the certifications enclosed as Annexes C and D.
5. Since becoming a lawyer and IBP member, he comported himself as a worthy member of the profession.
His annual dues were kept updated as shown by a copy of the IBP receipt enclosed as Annex E, indicating his
prompt payment of his dues for the current year. He also paid the required professional tax for the privilege of
practicing his profession as shown by the appropriate receipt attached as Annex F. He is, therefore, a member in
good standing, a fact which the IBP confirmed by the enclosed certificate it issued in his favor marked as Annex G.
6. He is a taxpayer duly registered with the Bureau of Internal Revenue under Tax Identification 115-890-
345678.
x----------------------x
7. He desires to serve as notary public ever convinced that he possesses all the qualifications and none of
the disqualifications imposed by the rules for the office. He also had never been commissioned as notary public in
any other jurisdiction or in any place in the Philippines.
8. As further proof of his genuine interest to become a notary public, he has paid the required filing fee as
shown by the attached receipt marked as Annex H. Additionally, he attached in a separate paper marked as Annex I
for the court’s ready reference three (3) of his passport-size color photographs bearing his signature at each of the
bottom parts.
9. Finally, he has attached as Annex J a copy of the receipt issued by the manufacturer from whom he
purchased the seal he will use once commissioned as notary public. (Cf. A.M. 02-8-13-SC, 14 December 2004)
ACCORDINGLY, petitioner respectfully asks that:
(a) Upon filing this petition, a summary hearing be set consistent with the provisions of Section 4 of the 2004
Rules on Notarial Practice; and,
(b) After due proceeding, issue in his favor the appropriate notarial commission to be effective within the
Court’s territorial jurisdiction.
Other reliefs just and equitable are likewise prayed for.
Lucban for Lucena City, 28 August 2005.
(SGD.) JUAN C. DELA ROSA

Petitioner
13 Teresa Street Mira Monte Subdivision
Lucban, Quezon
PTR 4024157; 01-13-2005; Lucena City
IBP 560109; 01-13-2005; Lucena City
VERIFICATION
JUAN C. DELA ROSA, under oath state that, I have read and know the contents of the foregoing petition
that I personally drafted and the facts stated in it are true and correct to my personal knowledge and/or based on
official documents available to me.
28 August 2005, Lucena City, Quezon.
(SGD.) JUAN C. DELA ROSA

Driver’s License NOH-2345678
Issued at Lucena City
Expires on 23 May 2007
SIGNED AND SWORN to before me this 28 August 2005 in Lucena City, Quezon after I identified him with
his competent evidence of identity stated above.
(SGD) Juan C. Mendoza

Notary Public of Lucena City
Suite 212 Nolasco Bldg., Pilar, Lucena City
PTR 4122327; 01-04-2005; Lucena City
IBP 54109; 01-09-2005; Lucena City
Doc. 12;
Page 8;
Book II;
Series of 2005.
x----------------------x
B. Sample Copy Certification. Copy certification is a new notarial act under Section 4, Rule 2 of the
2004 RNP. It refers to a notarial act in which a notary public: (a) is presented with an instrument or
document that is neither a vital record, a public record, nor publicly recordable; (b) copies or supervises
the copying of the instrument or document; (c) compares the instrument or document with the copy;
and (d) determines that the copy is accurate and complete. Check the sample below.
Presented before me by Architect Noel Lastimoso is his punchlist inspection report to Spouses Fidel and
Myra de Guzman, owners of the a house and lot in 801 Matahimik Street, U.P. Village, Quezon City, pertaining to a
renovation project in the same address. After personally supervising the copying of this document, I certify that this
copy, where this certificate is attached, is an accurate and complete copy of the original.
Signed and Sealed on 11 September 2007 in Quezon City.
(SGD) Macario C. Mendoza

Notary Public of Quezon City
Suite 212 Nolasco Bldg., Commonwealth
Quezon City
PTR 4122327; 01-04-2005; Quezon City
IBP 54109; 01-09-2005; Quezon City
*I agree with Justice Regalado E. Maambong who in his book wrote that the notary’s
signature is already adequate without need of assigning a document, page, or book
number in the notarial register because he obviously cannot swear before himself
when acting as such.
C. Sample Signature Witnessing. Another new notarial act under Section 14, Rule 2 of the 2004
RNP is signature witnessing. It refers to a notarial act in which an individual on a single occasion: (a)
appears in person before the notary public and presents an instrument or document; (b) is personally
known to the notary public or identified by the notary public through competent evidence of identity as
defined by these Rules; and (c) signs the instrument or document in the presence of the notary public.
Check out the sample below.
Before me personally appeared Juan C. dela Cruz and presented to me his passport JJ 8972 issued by the
Foreign Affairs Department in Manila that is valid up to 11 September 2007, known to me to be the same person who
signed in my presence the assignment of loan proceeds from PAG-IBIG in favor of Ms. Clarita D. Maligaya.
Signed and Sealed this 1 September 2007 in Quezon City.

Notary Public of Quezon City
Suite 212 Nolasco Bldg., Commonwealth
Quezon City
PTR 4122327; 01-04-2005; Quezon City
IBP 54109; 01-09-2005; Quezon City
D. Jurat or Acknowledgment without the affiant’s presentation of a competent evidence of

identity. Under the new RNP, the presentation of a competent evidence of identity may be dispensed
with if a party taking an oath or acknowledgment is personally known to the notary.
SIGNED AND SWORN to before me this 28 August 2007 in Lucena City, Quezon by the affiant whom I
personally know.

x----------------------x
OR
BEFORE ME, appeared Tomas S. Balatan known personally to me. I know him to be the same person who
executed the foregoing deed of assignment. He acknowledged to me that he signed it voluntarily for the purposes
stated in the document.
City of Manila, 15 August 2004.
E. Special Competent Evidence of Identity . Because the rules on competent evidence of identity is
new, the bar examiner might ask you to draft a notarial act requiring a competent evidence of identity
based on paragraph (b) of section 12 of the 2004 RNP. This rule reads: (a) “the oath or affirmation of
one credible witness not privy to the instrument, document or transaction who is personally known to
the notary public and who personally knows the individual, or (b) of two credible witnesses neither of
whom is privy to the instrument, document or transaction who each personally knows the individual
and shows to the notary public documentary identification.”
For the first situation, the requirements are: (a) the notary public personally knows the witness; (b) the
witness personally knows the principal party; (c) the witness is not privy to the instrument, document or
transaction; and (d) oath or affirmation of the witness. In this regard, consider the sample
acknowledgment below:
(a)
BEFORE ME, personally appeared Jose B. Ricalde whose identity is proven to me by Tomas S. Balatan,
personally known to the undersigned notary, and the latter acknowledged to me that the signature he affixed in the
foregoing deed of assignment is his voluntary act for the purposes stated in it.
Tomas S. Balatan affirms under penalty of law that he personally knows Jose I. Ricalde, who is without an
identification document, to be same person who executed the foregoing deed and that he is not privy to or interested
in the document he signed.

Notary Public of Manila
Suite 212 Nolasco Bldg., Laong Laan Street,
Sampaloc, Manila
Doc. 13; Roll of Attorney 38719
Page 2; PTR 4122327; 01-04-2007; Quezon City
Book IV; IBP 54109; 01-09-2007; Quezon City
Series of 2007.
For the second situation, the requirements are: (a) the witnesses each personally knows the principal;
(b) the witnesses show to the notary their respective evidence of identity; (c) both witnesses are not
privy to the instrument, document or transaction; and (d) oath or affirmation of the witnesses. In this
regard, consider the sample acknowledgment below:
(b)
BEFORE ME, personally appeared Jose B. Ricalde who has proven to me his identity through witnesses:
Name Competent Evidence of Date/ Place Issued

Identification
x----------------------x
1. Tomas S. Balatan, Passport CC123330 1-05-2005 / Baguio City
2. Juan N. Buelta, Passport JJ200345 1-17-2005 / Manila
both of whom personally know Jose and the latter acknowledged to me that the signature he affixed in the foregoing
deed is his voluntary act for the purposes stated in the document.
We Tomas Balatan and Juan Buelta, Filipinos, of legal ages, affirm under penalty of law that the following
are true:
1. Jose B. Ricalde, personally known to us, is the same person named in the foregoing deed of
assignment.
2. Jose does not have any current identification document nor can he obtain one within a reasonable time.
3. We are not privy to or are interested in the document he signed.

Notary Public of Manila
Suite 212 Solano Building
Binondo, Manila
Doc. 13; PTR 4122327; 01-04-2007; Manila
Page 2; IBP 54109; 01-09-2007; Manila
Book IV;
Series of 2007.
FINAL CONSIDERATIONS
Completing the required pleading or contract will not be enough. To ENSURE an excellent
work, try to edit your work. Here are some helpful editing tips:
1. Aside from avoiding needless words to save on time, use the active voice instead of the
passive voice. Active voice is direct, vigorous, and strong. Sense the difference.
Abel was killed by Cain. (Passive) Cain killed Abel. (Active)
2. Use the right connectives. You need the help of connectives or transitory devices to link your
ideas one after the other and present a unified thought. You cannot assume that the examiner can read
unspoken tie-ups between ideas. Consider the following useful connectives:
Connective Function
And Connects two ideas of the same kind
Besides, what is more, furthermore, in Adds another thought to the first
addition, and again
First, next, then, finally; meanwhile Arranges ideas in order
Nearby, above, below Arranges ideas in space
But, still, however, on the other hand, Connects two contrasting ideas
nevertheless, rather
In fact, as a matter of fact, Connects the first idea with the second one
that points it up; the second one affirms of
validates the first idea
Therefore, consequently, accordingly Connects an idea with another that follows
from it.
In short, to sum up, in brief Summarize several ideas
x----------------------x
3. Avoid legalese and old English. Legal clichés have become trite and weak. To some, they
may sound pretentious, unnatural or artificial, if not arrogant. Phrases and words like to wit, instant
case, aforesaid complaint, herein method, thereat and theretofore must be discarded in favor of simpler
words.
4. Be simple. Some have the mistaken belief that they will sound more dignified and lawyerly if
they use polysyllabic words like “accompanied” or “informed” instead of “went with” or “told”,
respectively. Your written work will have the same tone of formality and dignity as long as it is serious
and thoughtful. As a rule, a simple familiar word that means exactly the same thing is the better choice.
5. Observe grammar rules. In presenting your answers, ensure that: the subject agrees with the
verb; you used the proper verb tenses and forms; there is proper coordination and subordination; and,
proper punctuations were used.
oOo

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QUICK REVIEWER ON LEGAL FORMS

By: Atty. Edwin M. Carillo

A. BUSINESS LEGAL FORMS

I. AFFIDAVITS or SWORN STATEMENTS

An affidavit is a sworn declaration of facts known to a declarant or affiant. It consists of the

Check out the following sample of an affidavit:

Manila, 14 August 2008.

(SGD.) RAUL C. SALONGA

SIGNED AND SWORN before me this 14 August 2008 at Manila, after

(SGD) JUAN C. MENDOZA

Check the sample below:

1. (DRAFT OF BASIC CHATTEL MORTGAGE CONTRACT)

3. AFFIDAVIT OF GOOD FAITH

WE, the undersigned parties, under oath declare that:

1. We are the parties to the foregoing chattel mortgage; and,

9 January 2008, City of Manila.

(SGD.) Mortgagor (SGD.) Mortgagee

Another common sworn statement is the corporate or partnership certification. Corporations

Look at the sample certificate below executed by the corporate secretary:

Makati City, 5 January 2009.

(SGD). RODOLFO E. POLICARPIO

Look at the sample directors’ certificate below:

1. Approval of the Minutes:

2. Appointment of Mr. Jose Antipuesto as General Manager.

(SGD.) BENJAMIN T. ANTIPUESTO

(SGD.) RODRIGO L. ANTIMANO (SGD.) CONCEPCION E. ANTIMANO

(SGD.) FRITZEL A. DACCIA (SGD.) RONALD L. ANTIMANO

(SGD.) MANUEL F. ANTIMANO

II. DEED FORMS

Observe these parts in the deed below.

DEED OF SALE OF MOTOR VEHICLE

THE PUBLIC IS ALERTED:

Make: Toyota Corolla 2000; Motor: EMC14356C

SIGNED: 8 July 2008, Quezon City.

(SGD.) PROCOPIO C. CRUZ

(SGD.) Helen Y. Cruz

SO THE PUBLIC MAY KNOW:

SIGNED on 9 November 2006, in Makati City.

CELTA REALTY DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

SIGNED on 9 November 2006, in Makati City.

CAYLAWAY BAPTIST CHURCH, INC.

(SGD.) JOSE C. AMOS (SGD.) BENEDICTO S. PAPA

In a Deed of Repurchase of Land sold under Pacto de Retro:

In an Easement of Right of Way:

In Extrajudicial Settlement Among Heirs:

It is my wish that upon my death, everything I own be given

(SGD.) Eduardo L. Montinola, Sr.

17 September 2004, Manila

III. CONTRACT FORMS

Observe these parts in the contract below.

SO THE PUBLIC MAY KNOW:

This Agreement executed between:

1.1. Pesos: Fifteen Thousand (P15,000.00) upon signing this contract;

SIGNED: 17 August 2008, City of Manila.

(SGD.) TOMAS S. BALATAN (SGD.) JUAN N. BUELTA

Signed in the presence of:

(SGD.) JACINTO C. TIRAPA (SGD.) FELICITO F. NANLUMO

Check out the sample compromise below:

This agreement executed among:

Make Honda Accord

2. To assume Larry’s stock subscriptions in Superhem at its par value.

Signed this 17 May 2006 in Makati City.