Teotimo Rodriguez Tio Tiam vs.

Republic, 101 Phil 195

Petitioner-Appellee: Teotimo Rodriguez Tio Tiam
Oppositor-Appellant: Republic of the Philippines

Facts:

Teotimo was born in Cebu City of Chinese parents and married to a Chinese woman. He also
voted in various elections held and had took the oath of allegiance as a citizen of the Philippines. The
petitioner showed evidences that rendered him qualified to be a Filipino citizen but the government
argued that he was disqualified for having an alleged illicit relation that questions his possession of
good moral character, which was not substantially proven.

Issue:
Whether or not Teotimo should be declared a Filipino citizen.

Held:
Yes, Teotimo is considered a Filipino citizen through the naturalization law of the country for
the evidentiary fact that qualifies him for the acquisition of Philippine citizenship. His right to be
entitled to Philippines citizenship cannot be affected by mere hearsay which is rendered incompetent.
Petitioner was, then, granted Philippine citizenship subject to the requirements of Republic Act No.
530.