SBLC - Salalima Beira Legal Consultancy

18/08/2026

Void marriage is a valid defense against bigamy even without prior court declaration.

The has acquitted a woman of bigamy, ruling that a prior marriage that was void from the beginning (𝘷𝘰𝘪𝘥 𝘢𝘣 𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘰) may be raised as a defense even without a prior judicial declaration of nullity.

In a Decision penned by Associate Justice Alfredo Benjamin S. Caguioa, the SC’s Third Division reversed the ruling of the Regional Trial Court (RTC) Pampanga and the Court of Appeals (CA), which had found Ma. Fe Imelda Lapira guilty of bigamy.

Lapira faced a bigamy charge under Article 349 of the 𝘙𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘴𝘦𝘥 𝘗𝘦𝘯𝘢𝘭 𝘊𝘰𝘥𝘦 for marrying Jimmy Fariscal while still married to Takahiko Sato as evidenced by a marriage certificate from the Office of the Civil Registrar General.

During trial, Lapira argued that her marriage to Sato was void because no ceremony took place and no marriage license had been issued, both of which were required for validity. The Local Civil Registrar confirmed that there was no record of the application for a marriage license for Lapira and Sato.

In acquitting Lapira, the SC applied its ruling in the 2021 case of 𝘗𝘶𝘭𝘪𝘥𝘰 𝘷. 𝘗𝘦𝘰𝘱𝘭𝘦, which held that an accused in a bigamy case may directly argue that a previous marriage is void as a defense, even without a prior court declaration.

The SC explained that one of the essential elements of bigamy is the existence of a valid prior marriage. If the first marriage was void from the beginning, that element is absent.

In this case, the certification from the Local Civil Registrar sufficiently proved that no marriage license was issued to Lapira and Sato. This certification was enough to counter the presumption of the marriage certificate’s validity.

Read the full text of the Press Release at https://sc.judiciary.gov.ph/?p=171178.

Read the full text of the Decision at https://sc.judiciary.gov.ph/?p=165698.

Copying of this content is subject to the SC PIO’s Credit Attribution Policy: https://sc.judiciary.gov.ph/credit-attributionon-policy.

02/08/2026

Lawyer of the Day Initiative by IBP Cebu.

09/07/2026

Class suspension in Lapu-Lapu city is extended to July 10, 2026 due to Ashfall caused by Mt. Kanlaon.

CLASS SUSPENSION | JULY 10, 2026

Pagkahuman sa atong pagkonsulta sa atong Disaster Council, atong i-extend ang suspension sa face-to-face class ugmang adlawa, July 10, 2026. Atong gilantaw ang kaluwasan sa atong mga students ug teachers ug ilikay sila sa mga sakit nga posibleng makuha gikan sa ashfall. Aron sab nga aduna pay panahon ang school ug ang syudad nga magpahigayon og clean-up gikan sa abog. Apan, aron padayon ang ilang pagkat-on, modular and asynchronous methods will be applied.

Sa mga kids, please please let's stay home to keep ourselves safe. Di lang intawn ta mogawas. I also strongly discourage sab sa uban nga magpahigayon og outdoor nga dance practice, sports practice o uban pa. You can have it rescheduled in some other day when the air quality becomes safe for everyone. And of course, always lang gyud check sa posts from official fb pages for updates. Amping ug ampo ta, mga Oponganons!

09/07/2026

Sharing the Ashfall Advisory due to Mt. Kanlaon.
Take care of yourselves.

06/07/2026

Mutual desire of the husband and wife to end marriage doesn't automatically prove collusion.

SC: Mutual Desire to End Marriage Does Not Automatically Prove Collusion, Rules Supreme Court

The Supreme Court (SC) has ruled that a husband and wife's mutual desire to end their marriage does not, by itself, constitute collusion in petitions for annulment or declaration of nullity of marriage.

"When a marriage has become irreparably broken, the spouses so deeply incompatible as to render its continued existence unjust, the Court should not stand in the way.”

Maria Filomena D. Singh
Supreme Court Associate Justice
February 3, 2026

20/06/2026

👨‍🍼HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!
Today, we honor the men who quietly carry the weight of responsibility, make sacrifices without recognition, and stand as protectors, providers, mentors, and role models for their families.

Fatherhood is more than a title—it is a lifelong commitment.

A father's influence extends far beyond financial support. Through his guidance, discipline, integrity, and love, he helps shape the character and future of his children. Many of life's most important lessons—honesty, perseverance, respect, responsibility, and courage—are first learned from a father.

⚖️ The law recognizes the vital role of fathers in society. Fathers are not only entrusted with parental authority but are likewise bound by the legal and moral duty to support, protect, and nurture their children. These responsibilities reflect the importance of fatherhood in building strong families and communities.

Today, let us celebrate all fathers:

👔 Fathers who work tirelessly to provide for their families;
🤝 Fathers who choose to be present despite life's challenges;
🏡 Single fathers who carry both parental roles;
❤️ Stepfathers, grandfathers, and father figures who have stepped up when needed; and
🙏 Fathers whose love continues to inspire even after they are gone.

To every father, thank you for your sacrifices, your strength, and your unwavering dedication.

May this day remind us that the greatest legacy a father can leave is not wealth or possessions, but a life lived with honor, love, and responsibility.

"A father's guidance lasts a lifetime, and his love leaves an imprint on the heart forever."

19/06/2026

BUYING SUBDIVISION HOUSE & LOT OR CONDOMINIUM UNIT

When buying a house and lot or condominium units from a developer in the Philippines, the most critical things to check are the developer’s License to Sell (LTS), the validity of the land title, and compliance with laws like PD 957 and the Maceda Law. These protect you from scams, ensure the property is legally sellable, and safeguard your rights if you buy on installment.

🏡 Key Legal Requirements:
∆ License to Sell: Developers must secure this from the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD). Without it, they cannot legally sell subdivision lots or housing units.

∆ Title Verification: Obtain a certified true copy of the Transfer Certificate of Title (TCT) or Original Certificate of Title (OCT) from the Registry of Deeds. Ensure there are no liens, mortgages, or adverse claims.

∆ Maceda Law: Protects buyers on installment. After 5 years of payments, you’re entitled to a 50% refund if the contract is canceled.

∆ Tax Obligations: Be aware of Capital Gains Tax, Documentary Stamp Tax, and Value-Added Tax.

📋 Due Diligence Checklist:
Developer Accreditation: Confirm DHSUD registration and review subdivision/condominium plans

Developer Reputation: Research past projects. Were they completed on time? Did buyers encounter issues?

Amenities & Infrastructure: Confirm promised facilities (roads, drainage, water, electricity) are included in the plan.

Zoning Compliance: Verify with the local government that the property is zoned for residential use.

Tax Clearance: Secure proof that real property taxes are paid.

Survey Inspection: Hire a geodetic engineer to confirm property boundaries and avoid encroachment issues.

Contract Review: Ensure the Contract to Sell and Deed of Sale are clear on payment terms, turnover date, and penalties.

Hidden Costs: Ask about association dues, utility connection fees, and transfer taxes.

⚠️ Risks & Red Flags
No License to Sell → The project may be illegal or unapproved.

Unclear Title → Could mean disputes, double sales, or encumbrances.

Hidden Costs → Developers may pass on fees for utilities connection, association dues, or transfer taxes

Pre-selling Issues → Units may be delayed or not delivered as promised. Always check the developer’s track record

📊 Comparison: Key Laws Protecting Buyers
Law : PD 957
Coverage: Subdivision and vondo sales
Buyer Protection: Requires LTS, ensures basic facilities

Law: Maceda Law
Coverage: Installment buyers
Buyer Protection: Refunds & grace periods for defaults

Law:Civil Code
Coverage: Contracts of sale
Buyer Protection: Requires written agreements

Law: RA 4726
Coverage: Condominium Act Buyer Protection: Governs condo ownership rules

✅ Practical Advice
∆ Always deal only with DHSUD-accredited developers.

∆ Visit the site personally to check progress and amenities.

∆ Consult a real estate lawyer before signing contracts.

∆ Keep all receipts and documents for future disputes and claims

✅ Smart Buyer Tips:
Visit the site personally before committing.

Keep all receipts and signed documents.

Consult a real estate lawyer for contract review.

Deal only with DHSUD-accredited developers.

19/06/2026

✨ Know Your Rights! ✨
Under RA 11210, mothers are entitled to 105 days of paid maternity leave (120 days for solo mothers), with an option to extend for 30 days unpaid. This law protects women’s health, family life, and workplace rights.

📌 Key Provisions of RA 11210 (Expanded Maternity Leave Law)
105 Days Paid Leave
All female workers in the public and private sectors, including those in the informal economy, are entitled to 105 days of maternity leave with full pay.

Additional 15 Days for Solo Mothers
Solo mothers, as defined under the Solo Parents’ Welfare Act (RA 8972), are entitled to 120 days of paid maternity leave.

Optional 30-Day Extension (Unpaid)
Mothers may extend their leave for 30 more days without pay, upon prior notice to their employer.

Coverage Regardless of Status
The law applies to married or unmarried mothers, and covers childbirth, miscarriage, or emergency termination of pregnancy.

In cases of miscarriage or emergency termination, 60 days of paid leave is granted.

Leave Allocation to Fathers
Mothers may transfer up to 7 days of their leave credits to the child’s father, extending his paternity leave.

Security of Tenure & Non-Diminution of Benefits
Employers cannot terminate or discriminate against women for availing maternity leave. Existing benefits cannot be reduced.

⚖️ Why This Law Matters
Promotes women’s health and recovery after childbirth.
Strengthens family life and child care.
Aligns with international standards protecting working mothers’ rights.
Ensures job security and equal treatment in the workplace.

18/06/2026

Understanding Paternity Leave in the Philippines: A Father's Right and Responsibility

Welcoming a child into the family is a life-changing moment—not only for mothers but also for fathers. Recognizing the important role of fathers during childbirth and the early days of parenting, Philippine law grants eligible married male employees the benefit of paternity leave.

Under Republic Act No. 8187, otherwise known as the Paternity Leave Act of 1996, a married male employee is entitled to seven (7) days of paid paternity leave for the first four (4) deliveries of his legitimate spouse with whom he is cohabiting. This benefit allows the father to support his wife during her recovery and to actively participate in caring for their newborn child.

The law applies to employees in both the public and private sectors, provided that the employee has notified his employer of the pregnancy and intends to avail of the leave in accordance with company policies and applicable regulations.

Paternity leave is more than just a workplace benefit—it is a recognition of the father's vital role in strengthening family bonds and promoting shared parental responsibilities.

Remember: Being present during one of the most important moments in your family's life is not only a privilege but also a right protected by law.