Author name: Juliana Sales

In this case, the heirs of a registered landowner sought to recover possession of a property occupied by their relatives, who claimed they had purchased the land decades earlier through an oral agreement with the deceased owner. Although no written deed of sale existed, the buyers had long possessed and cultivated the property and presented tax declarations and receipts showing payment of taxes over the years. The Supreme Court ruled that while the Civil Code requires sales of real property to be in writing for enforceability, an oral sale that has already been partially or fully executed may still be considered valid and binding. The Court emphasized that delivery of the property and continued possession are strong indicators that the sale had been consummated.

In this case, a Regional Trial Court judge confronted a PAO lawyer who briefly parked near a PWD access ramp inside the Justice Hall of Marikina. Although the lawyer repeatedly apologized, the judge publicly berated him using harsh and demeaning language, later proceeding to the PAO office to continue his tirade in front of witnesses. While the Supreme Court recognized that the judge’s concern for maintaining order and accessibility within court premises was legitimate, it held that his manner of enforcement was improper and disproportionate. The Court ultimately admonished the judge, reminding members of the judiciary that they must always exercise courtesy, restraint, and conduct consistent with the dignity of judicial office.