Estoppel arises when one, by his acts, representations, or admissions, or by his silence when he

ought to speak out, intentionally or through culpable negligence induces another to believe certain
facts to exist and such other rightfully relies and acts on such belief, so that he will be prejudiced if
the former is permitted to deny the existence of such facts (Huyatid v. Huyatid 47265-R, Jan. 4,
1978).

The doctrine of estoppel is based upon the grounds of public policy, fair dealing, good faith and
justice, and its purpose is to forbid one to speak against his own act, representations, or
commitments to the injury of one to whom they were directed and who reasonably relied thereon.
Said doctrine springs from equitable principles and the equities of the case. It is designed to aid the
law in the administration of justice where without its aid injustice might result.' (Philippine National
Bank v. Court of Appeals, L-30831, November 21, 1979, 94 SCRA 368)