[21] Republic v PLDT, 26 SCRA 620 (1969)

FACTS:
The Bureau of Telecommunications and PLDT entered into an interconnecting agreement. The
BOTC however violated their terms of contract by using the facilities of PLDT, not for
government purposes but for private gain. PLDT complained and disconnected their connection
with BOTC. BOTC is now praying to the court for PLDT to connect its lines to them.
ISSUE:
W/N interconnection can become a valid object for expropriation.
RULING:
Yes, the court ruled that interconnection can become a valid object for expropriation. The
republic may, in the sovereign power of eminent domain, require pldt for interconnection, subject
for just compensation. Though the government cannot compel pldt to enter into a contract,
because such is the essence of the contractual system, which is the freedom to stipulate the terms
of the contract. This is called the principle of autonomy.