Provisional dismissal of a criminal case becomes permanent after one year

Dear PAO, Two years ago, the trial court granted my motion for the provisional dismissal of the case filed against me for Less Serious Physical Injuries. Up to now, I have not received any notice regarding the case. In relation thereto, I want to know when and how my case will be permanently dismissed. Thank […]

The Unavailable Child Doctrine | The Manila Times

Dear PAO, My father has been accused of allegedly raping a child. However, throughout the trial, the child, who is the sole witness to the alleged crime, was not available for cross-examination. Is her testimony admissible in evidence? Jhamil Dear Jhamil, As a general rule, a statement of a witness given under oath and offered […]

Prohibition on endorsement of vape products

Dear PAO, I was scrolling through my social media applications when I saw an influencer endorsing a brand of vape. The video has garnered a lot of views. As a mother, I am afraid that the video might be viewed by my children and they may be encouraged to use vape as well. Is the […]

Honor graduate eligibility | The Manila Times

Dear PAO, I took up economics at a prestigious school here in Manila and graduated magna cum laude. I want to work for a government agency, but when I did my research, I found out that eligibility is required, especially since my course does not have a board examination. I want to know if I […]

Time spent in lactation station of an employee is compensable

Dear PAO, I have a question regarding my sister’s situation. She gave birth three months ago and recently returned to work after her maternity leave. If she uses the lactation station more than once a day, will it affect her paid or compensated working hours? Are there any rules under our laws regarding this? Lala […]

Personnel in illegal gambling | The Manila Times

Dear PAO, I recently got a job as a cashier in a business establishment. At first, I didn’t know that they were operating an illegal gambling business, particularly mahjong. Because it is difficult to find a job, I opted to stay in my current employment. Last week, our office was raided by the police and […]

No accessory penalty of civil interdiction in life imprisonment

Dear PAO, I bought a parcel of land from Jose (deceased). Jose was convicted for a certain crime during his lifetime, and, as far as I know, the penalty imposed on him was either reclusion perpetua or life imprisonment. Now, his son called me and claimed that he would recover the land because the sale […]

Right of way for emergency vehicles

Dear PAO, I was driving to work along my usual route when I heard an ambulance siren wailing from several cars behind me. The cars were moving slowly at that time due to rush hour traffic. Despite the traffic crawl, I managed to move my car and let the ambulance pass. After several more minutes […]