When a “Sale” Isn’t a Sale: Why Knowing the Seller’s True Ownership Matters
Have you ever wondered what makes a property sale truly valid? It’s not just about signing papers and exchanging money. A recent Supreme Court decision highlights a crucial point: if the buyer knows the seller isn’t the real owner, that sale can be declared invalid. This case, involving two parcels of land in Tacloban City, […]
Protecting Your Property: What You Need to Know About Right-of-Way in the Philippines.
If a government infrastructure project is planned near you, understanding “Right-of-Way” (ROW) is crucial for protecting your property and ensuring fair treatment. This guide will help you navigate the process based on the rules and procedures set by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in the Philippines. What Exactly is Right-of-Way (ROW)? Right-of-Way […]
Ensuring Equitable Development: Understanding Resettlement Action Plans, Resettlement Frameworks, and Social Safeguards in Infrastructure Projects
Large-scale infrastructure initiatives, such as the North-South Commuter Railway Extension Project (NSCR-Ex) and the South Commuter Railway Project (SCRP) in the Philippines, are vital for economic growth and improved connectivity. However, they often necessitate land acquisition and Right-of-Way (ROW) clearance, which can lead to involuntary resettlement impacts on affected individuals and communities. To manage these […]
Resettlement Action Plans (RAP)
What is a RAP? A Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) is a legally and socially required document that outlines how a project will compensate, relocate, and support people or communities displaced due to land acquisition or infrastructure development. When is a RAP required? Generally, a RAP is required when there is physical displacement (loss of […]
A Definitive Guide to Verifying Property Titles in the Philippines
How to verify a property title in the Philippines? Verifying a property title and checking for authenticity, liens, or disputes in the Philippines involves examining the Certificate of Title itself and consulting the official records at the Registry of Deeds. Here are tips and a discussion on how to perform this verification: Tips on Checking […]
The Importance of Due Diligence in Land Acquisition: Insights from a Recent Supreme Court Ruling
In a landmark decision involving the case of Spouses Orencio S. Manalese, Eloisa B. Manalese, and Aries B. Manalese against the Estate of the Late Spouses Narciso and Ofelia Ferreras, the Supreme Court of the Philippines has underscored the crucial need for prospective land buyers to conduct thorough due diligence before purchasing property. The case […]