Christmas bonuses are discretionary | The Manila Times
Dear PAO, I have a question about the Christmas bonus. I got a job in July 2024 and believe I am entitled to a Christmas bonus. However, my workmates informed me that our company has never given such a bonus. Aren’t employers legally required to provide a Christmas bonus? Can you enlighten me on this […]
Standards for assessment of value of property subject to negotiated sale with government
Dear PAO, My aunt was informed that her land in our province would be affected by a national infrastructure project. A certain price was offered for the property. However, my aunt thinks the price is too low because it has been their ancestral home for generations. Hence, she intends to negotiate a higher price because […]
Use of illegal drugs is an aggravating circumstance
Dear PAO, Our neighbor admitted to committing murder but argued that he did not know what he was doing because he was under the influence of drugs. Can he argue that he should not be held liable or that his liability should be mitigated because he was under the influence of illegal drugs? Vanessa Dear […]
Minor who acts with discernment can be held criminally liable
Dear PAO,Recently, there has been an increase in news reports about criminal activities committed by minors. It is unfortunate to see that most of these minors appear to escape accountability for their actions, despite the degree of vileness in their acts. Is there an instance where these minors can be held criminally liable for crimes […]
No dual scholarships for ‘Doktor Para Sa Bayan Act’ grantees
Dear PAO, I am a government scholar under the “Doktor Para sa Bayan Act.” Recently, a private company offered me a scholarship, promising to cover my tuition and book expenses. My question is, can I avail of another scholarship along with this government program? Bernadette Dear Bernadette, In its goal to create ways and means […]
Coins as legal tender | The Manila Times
Dear PAO, My son has been saving for a pair of shoes he wanted to buy. Every day after school, he would drop several coins from his daily allowance into a small jar in his closet. He also collected spare change from our shopping or dining purchases. After months of saving every coin he could […]
Disinheritance of a son | The Manila Times
Dear PAO, I am thinking of drafting a last will to bequeath all my assets to my three children and wife, excluding one of my children. I am very disappointed with this child because we had a physical altercation during an argument about managing our family business. Can I validly remove one of my children […]
Killing of an animal as part of religious rituals
Dear PAO,I recently came across a video shot in the Philippines where an animal was killed as part of a religious ritual. According to the video, it was a religious rite meant to bring good health and stamina to its participants. They claimed that it was legal since it took place during a religious ceremony. […]
A written Special Power of Attorney is needed for sale of land
Dear PAO, I am currently living in Manila, but I own a parcel of land in Bacolod, where my sister resides. I recently visited Bacolod to see if I can develop that parcel of land for additional income. However, I learned that my sister sold my land to a third person. The buyers claimed my […]
Slander can be filed against a gossiper
Dear PAO, I was bullied during my high school years, so it is with great hesitation that I attended our high school reunion. At first I thought things were going well, until I noticed the quiet murmurs of the people behind me. I went to the ladies’ comfort room and while I was inside the […]