Political Law Bar Questions Guide

SUGGESTED ANSWERS
TO BAR EXAMINATION
IN
POLITICAL LAW
ARRANGED BY TOPIC
(1987 – 2006)
Edited and Arranged by:
Atty. Janette Laggui-Icao and
Atty. Alex Andrew P. Icao
(Silliman University College of Law)
July 26, 2005
Updated by:
Romualdo L. Señeris II, LLB.
April 19, 2007
From the ANSWERS TO BAR EXAMINATION QUESTIONS
in POLITICAL LAW by the
UP LAW COMPLEX and
PHILIPPINE ASSOCIATION OF LAW SCHOOLS
BAR Q&A (as arranged by Topics) – POLITICAL LAW (1987-2006) 1

F O R W A R D
This work is not intended for sale or commerce. This work is freeware. It may be
freely copied and distributed. It is primarily intended for all those who desire to have
a deeper understanding of the issues touched by the Philippine Bar Examinations and
its trend. It is specially intended for law students from the provinces who, very often,
are recipients of deliberately distorted notes from other unscrupulous law schools and
students. Share to others this work and you will be richly rewarded by God in heaven.
It is also very good karma.
We would like to seek the indulgence of the reader for some Bar Questions which
are improperly classified under a topic and for some topics which are improperly or
ignorantly phrased, for the authors are just Bar Reviewees who have prepared this
work while reviewing for the Bar Exams under time constraints and within their
limited knowledge of the law. We would like to seek the reader’s indulgence for a lot
of typographical errors in this work.
The Authors

TABLE OF CONTENTS
1987 CONSTITUTION OF THE PHILIPPINES ................................................................... 14
Phil Con 87; New Features (1991)..................................................................................... 14
Phil Con 87; People Power (1987)..................................................................................... 14
Nature of the Constitution: Constitutional Supremacy (2004) ....................................... 15
Government Presidential Form vs. Parliamentary Form (Q6-2006)............................. 15
ARTICLE I National Territory........................................................................................... 16
Archipelagic Doctrine (1989)............................................................................................... 16
Contiguous Zone vs. Exclusive Economic Zone (2004)................................................. 16
Exclusive Economic Zone; Rights of the Coastal State (1994)..................................... 16
Exclusive Economic Zone; Rights of the Coastal State (Q1-2005) .............................. 17
Flag State vs. Flag of Convenience (2004) ...................................................................... 17
Territory & Government (1996)........................................................................................... 17
Territorial Sea vs. Internal Waters (2004)......................................................................... 17
ARTICLE II Declaration of Principles and State Policies.......................................... 18
Armed Forces; Servant of the People (2003)................................................................... 18
Doctrine of Incorporation; Constitutional Law (1997)...................................................... 18
Doctrine of Incorporation; Pacta Sunt Servanda (2000)................................................. 18
Freedom from Nuclear Weapons; Foreign Military Bases (1988)................................. 18
Philippine Flag (Q4-2006).................................................................................................... 19
Principle of Civilian Supremacy (Q6-2006)....................................................................... 19
State Immunity from Suit (1991)......................................................................................... 19
State Immunity from Suit (1989)........................................................................................ 20
State Immunity vs. Waiver of Immunity (1997) ................................................................ 22
State Principles & Policies (1994) ...................................................................................... 23
Transparency; Matters of Public Interest (1989).............................................................. 24
Transparency; Matters of Public Interest (2000).............................................................. 25
ARTICLE III Bill of Rights ................................................................................................... 25
Bill of Attainder (1987).......................................................................................................... 25
Bill of Attainder (1990).......................................................................................................... 26
Custodial Investigation; Extrajudicial Confession (2001) ............................................... 26
Custodial Investigation; Extrajudicial Confession; Police Line-Up (1994) ................... 26
Custodial Investigation; Police Line-Up (1997)................................................................ 27
Custodial Investigation; Right to Counsel (1988) ............................................................ 27
Custodial Investigation; Right to Counsel; Receipt of Property Seized (2002)........... 28
Custodial Investigation; Rights (1990)............................................................................... 29

Double Jeopardy (1988) ...................................................................................................... 30
Double Jeopardy (1993) ...................................................................................................... 31
Double Jeopardy (1997) ...................................................................................................... 31
Double Jeopardy (1999) ...................................................................................................... 32
Double Jeopardy (1999) ...................................................................................................... 32
Double Jeopardy (2000) ...................................................................................................... 32
Double Jeopardy (2001) ...................................................................................................... 32
Double Jeopardy (2002) ...................................................................................................... 33
Double Jeopardy; Requisites (1999) ................................................................................. 33
Due Process; Absence of Denial (1999)........................................................................... 33
Due Process; Deportation (1994)....................................................................................... 34
Due Process; Forfeiture Proceedings (1993)................................................................... 35
Due Process; Media Coverage during Hearing (1996)................................................... 35
Due Process; Meeting vs. Hearing (1999)........................................................................ 35
Due Process; Notice by Publication (1988) ...................................................................... 35
Due Process; Permit to Carry Firearm Outside Residence (Q6-2006)........................ 36
Due Process; PPA-Pilots (2001) ........................................................................................ 36
Due Process; Procedural vs. Substantive (1999)............................................................ 37
Due Process; Provisional Order (1991) ............................................................................ 37
Due Process; Public School Teachers (2002) ................................................................. 37
Due Process; Radio Station (1987) ................................................................................... 38
Due Process; Represented by a Non-Lawyer (1988) ..................................................... 38
Due Process; Substantive (2003) ...................................................................................... 38
Due Process; Suspension of Driver's License (1992)..................................................... 38
Due Process; Urgent Public Need (1987)......................................................................... 39
Eminent Domain; Garnishment (1994).............................................................................. 39
Eminent Domain; Garnishment (1998).............................................................................. 40
Eminent Domain; immunity from suit (2001) .................................................................... 40
Eminent Domain; Indirect Public Benefit (1990).............................................................. 40
Eminent Domain; Just Compensation (1988) .................................................................. 40
Eminent Domain; Legal Interest (1993) ............................................................................ 41
Eminent Domain; Non-observance of the policy of "all or none" (2000)...................... 42
Eminent Domain; Power to Exercise (2005) .................................................................... 42
Eminent Domain; Public Use (1987).................................................................................. 42
Eminent Domain; Socialized Housing (1996)................................................................... 43
Eminent Domain; Writ of Possession (1993).................................................................... 43
Equal Protection; Alien Employment (1989)..................................................................... 44
Equal Protection; Invidious Discrimination (1987)........................................................... 44
Equal Protection; Invidious Discrimination (1987)........................................................... 45
Equal Protection; Police Power (2000).............................................................................. 45
Equal Protection; Right to Education (1994) .................................................................... 45
Equal Protection; Subsidiary Imprisonment (1989)......................................................... 45
Freedom of Expression; Censorship (2003)..................................................................... 46
Freedom of Expression; Prior Restraint (1988) ............................................................... 46
Freedom of Religion; Convicted Prisoners (1989) .......................................................... 46
Freedom of Religion; Flag Salute (1997).......................................................................... 47
Freedom of Religion; Flag Salute (2003).......................................................................... 48
Freedom of Religion; Non-Establishment Clause (1988)............................................... 48

Freedom of Speech; Ban on Tobacco AD (1992) ........................................................... 49
Freedom of the Press; Actual Malice (2004) .................................................................... 50
Freedom of the Press; Wartime Censorship (1987)........................................................ 50
Impairment Clause; Basic Human Rights (1992) ............................................................ 51
Involuntary Servitude (1993)............................................................................................... 51
Liberty of Abode; Limitations (1998).................................................................................. 51
Liberty of Abode; Temporary (1996).................................................................................. 52
Non-Imprisonment for Non-Payment of Debt (1993) ...................................................... 52
Police Power; Abatement of Nuisance (2004) ................................................................. 52
Police Power; Ban on Tobacco AD (1992) ....................................................................... 52
Police Power; Zoning Ordinance vs. Non-Impairment of Contracts (1989) ................ 53
Police Power; Zoning Ordinance vs. Non-Impairment of Contracts (2001) ................ 53
Privacy of Communication (2001) ...................................................................................... 53
Privacy of Correspondence (1998) .................................................................................... 54
Privacy of Correspondence; Jail (1989)............................................................................ 54
Right to Assembly; Permit Application; Freedom Parks (Q2-2006).............................. 54
Right to Assembly; Permit Requirements (1992) ........................................................... 55
Right to Assembly; Public Teachers (2000) ..................................................................... 55
Right to Assembly; Public Teachers (2002) ..................................................................... 56
Right to Travel; Order of Arrest (1991).............................................................................. 56
Rights of the Accused; Counsel of his Choice (Q8-2005).............................................. 56
Rights of the Accused; Presumption of Innocence vs. Presumption of Theft (2004) 57
Rights of the Accused; Right to Bail (1993)...................................................................... 57
Rights of the Accused; Right to Bail; Capital Offense (Q4-2006) ................................. 58
Rights of the Accused; Right to Bail; Deportation Case (1989) .................................... 58
Rights of the Accused; Right to Bail; Matter of Right or a Matter of Discretion (Q7-
2005)....................................................................................................................................... 58
Rights of the Accused; Right to Speedy Trial (2000)...................................................... 59
Rights of the Accused; Self-Incrimination (1988) ............................................................ 59
Rights of the Accused; Self-Incrimination (Q7-2006)...................................................... 61
Searches and Seizure; Private Individuals (Q8-2005)................................................... 61
Searches and Seizures; Aliens (2001).............................................................................. 61
Searches and Seizures; Breathalyzer Test (1992).......................................................... 62
Searches and Seizures; Immediate Control (1987) ........................................................ 62
Searches and Seizures; Incidental to Valid Search (1990) ........................................... 62
Searches and Seizures; Place of Search (2001)............................................................. 63
Searches and Seizures; search made by a private citizen (1993)................................ 63
Searches and Seizures; search made by a private citizen (2002)................................ 64
Searches and Seizures; Valid Warrantless Search (2000)............................................ 64
Searches and Seizures; Visual Search (1992) ................................................................ 65
Searches and Seizures; Waiver of Consent (1989)........................................................ 65
Searches and Seizures; Warrantless Arrests (1993)...................................................... 66
Searches and Seizures; Warrants of Arrest (1991) ........................................................ 66
ARTICLE IV Citizenship ..................................................................................................... 66
Action for Cancellation; Prescription & Effect of Death (1994)...................................... 66
Citizenship; Elected Official (1993) .................................................................................... 67
Dual Allegiance vs. Dual Citizenship (1987) .................................................................... 67

Dual Allegiance vs. Dual Citizenship (1988) .................................................................... 68
Dual Citizenship (1994)........................................................................................................ 68
Effect of Marriage; Filipino (1989)..................................................................................... 69
Effect of Oath of Allegiance (2004).................................................................................... 69
Effect of Repatriation (1999) ............................................................................................... 70
Effects of Marriages (1999)................................................................................................. 70
Effects of Philippine Bill of 1902 (2001) ............................................................................ 71
Elected Official (1992).......................................................................................................... 71
Electing Philippine Citizenship (Q8-2006) ........................................................................ 71
Electing Philippine Citizenship; When Proper (Q8-2006)............................................... 72
Natural Born Filipino (1989) ................................................................................................ 72
Natural Born Filipino (1998) ................................................................................................ 72
Natural-Born Filipino(1993) ................................................................................................. 73
Naturalization; Cancellation of Citizenship (1998)........................................................... 73
Residency Requirements; Elective Official (Q9-2005).................................................... 73
Status; Illegitimate Child (1990).......................................................................................... 74
Status; Illegitimate Child; Dual Citizenship (1996) .......................................................... 74
Status; Legitimate Child (2003) .......................................................................................... 74
Ways of Reacquiring Citizenship (2000)........................................................................... 75
ARTICLE VI Legislative Department .............................................................................. 75
Appropriation of Public Funds (1988) ................................................................................ 75
Appropriation of Public Funds; Debt Servicing (1992).................................................... 75
Appropriation of Public Funds; Public Purposes (1988)................................................. 75
Commission on Appointments (2002) ............................................................................... 76
Delegation of Powers (2002) .............................................................................................. 76
Delegation of Powers; (Q6-2005)....................................................................................... 76
Delegation of Powers; Completeness Test; Sufficient Standard Test (Q6-2005) ...... 77
Discipline; Modes of Removal (1993)............................................................................... 77
Discipline; Suspension of a Member of the Congress (2002) ....................................... 77
Elected Official; De Facto Officer (2004) .......................................................................... 78
Electoral Tribunal; HRET Members’ Right & Responsibilities (2002) .......................... 78
Electoral Tribunal; Senate; Jurisdiction (1990) ................................................................ 79
Foreign Affairs; Role of House of Rep (1996) .................................................................. 79
Foreign Affairs; Role of Senate (1994).............................................................................. 79
Investigations in Aid of Legislation (1992) ........................................................................ 79
Law Making; Process & Publication (1993) ...................................................................... 80
Law-Making; Appropriation Bill (1996) .............................................................................. 80
Law-Making; Appropriation Law; Automatic Renewal & Power of Augmentation
(1998)...................................................................................................................................... 80
Law-Making; Appropriation Law; Rider Provision (2001) ............................................... 81
Law-Making; Foreign Affairs; Treaties (1996).................................................................. 81
Law-Making; Overriding the Presidential Veto (1991) .................................................... 81
Law-Making; Passage of a Law (1988)............................................................................. 82
Legislative Power; Pres. Aquino’s Time (1990) ............................................................... 82
Legislative Powers (1989) ................................................................................................... 82
Loans Extended to Members of Congress (1991)........................................................... 82
Multi-Party System (1999)................................................................................................... 83
Non-Legislative Powers (1988) .......................................................................................... 83
Non-Legislative Powers; Emergency Powers; Requisites (1997)................................. 83

Prohibitions and Inhibitions of Public Office (2004)......................................................... 83
Qualifications; Congressmen (1988) ................................................................................. 84
Qualifications; Congressmen; (1993) ................................................................................ 84
Qualifications; Congressmen; (1999) ................................................................................ 85
Separation of Powers (1988) .............................................................................................. 85
Separation of Powers (2003) .............................................................................................. 85
Three-Term Limit: Congressmen (1996)........................................................................... 86
Three-Term Limit; Congressmen (2001)........................................................................... 86
ARTICLE VII Executive Department ................................................................................ 86
Appointing Power; Acting vs. Permanent Appointment (2003) ..................................... 86
Appointing Power; ad interim appointments (1991) ........................................................ 86
Appointing Power; Ad Interim Appointments (1994) ....................................................... 87
Appointing Power; Appointments Requiring Confirmation; RA 6975-Unconstitutional
(2002)...................................................................................................................................... 87
Appointing Power; Categories of Officials (1999)............................................................ 88
Appointing Power; Kinds of Appointments (1994)........................................................... 88
Appointing Power; Limitations on Presidential Appointments (1997)........................... 89
Appointing Powers; Ad Interim Appointments (Q4-2005) .............................................. 90
Cabinet Members; limitation on accepting additional duties (1996) ............................. 90
Calling-out Power; President (Q1-2006) ........................................................................... 91
Declaration; State of Calamity; Legal Effects (Q1-2005)................................................ 91
Declaration; State of National Emergency (Q1-2006) .................................................... 91
Enter into Contract or Guarantee Foreign Loans (1994)................................................ 91
Enter into Contract or Guarantee Foreign Loans (1999)................................................ 92
Enter into Executive Agreements (2003) .......................................................................... 92
Impose Tariff Rates, Import and Export Quotas (1999).................................................. 92
Martial Law & Suspension of Writ of Habeas Corpus (1987) ........................................ 92
Martial Law; Limitations (2000).......................................................................................... 93
Martial Law; Sufficiency of the Factual Basis (Q3-2006)................................................ 94
Pardoning Power; Amnesty (1993).................................................................................... 95
Pardoning Power; Amnesty (1995).................................................................................... 95
Pardoning Power; Breach of Condition; Revocation (Q5-2005).................................... 95
Pardoning Power; Exec Clemency; Pardon (1995)......................................................... 95
Pardoning Power; Executive Clemency (1997) ............................................................... 96
Pardoning Power; Executive Clemency (1999) ............................................................... 96
Pardoning Power; Kinds (1988).......................................................................................... 96
Pardoning Power; Pardon, Conditional (1997) ................................................................ 97
President; Participation; Legislative Process (1996)....................................................... 97
Presidential Immunity from Suit (1997) ............................................................................. 97
Prohibition Against Multiple Positions & Additional Compensation (2002) ................. 97
Prohibition against Multiple Positions by Gov’t Officials (1987) .................................... 98
Suspension of Writ of Habeas Corpus (1997).................................................................. 99
ARTICLE VIII Judicial Department .................................................................................... 99
Cases to be Heard En Banc; Supreme Court (1999)...................................................... 99
Contempt Powers (1996)..................................................................................................... 99
Finality of Void Judgments (1993)...................................................................................... 99
Fiscal Autonomy (1999)..................................................................................................... 100
Function; Continuing Constitutional Convention (2000) ............................................... 100
Issuance of Restraining Orders and Injunctions (1992) ............................................... 100
Judicial & Bar Council (1988)............................................................................................ 101
Judicial & Bar Council (1999)............................................................................................ 101

Judicial Department; Writ of Amparo (1991) .................................................................. 101
Judicial Independence; Safeguard (2000)...................................................................... 101
Judicial Power (1989)......................................................................................................... 102
Judicial Power (1992)......................................................................................................... 102
Judicial Power (1998)......................................................................................................... 103
Judicial Power; Scope (1994) ........................................................................................... 103
Judicial Review; Locus Standi (1992).............................................................................. 104
Judicial Review; Requisites (1994) .................................................................................. 104
Jurisdiction of HLURB (1993) ........................................................................................... 104
Mandatory Period For Deciding Cases (1989)............................................................... 105
Political Question (1995).................................................................................................... 105
Political Question Doctrine (1997).................................................................................... 105
Political Question: Separation of Powers (2004) ........................................................... 106
Political Question; To Settle Actual Controversies (2004) ........................................... 106
Political Questions (1988).................................................................................................. 106
Pro Hac Vice Cases (1999)............................................................................................... 107
Removal of Lower Court Judges (1993) ......................................................................... 107
Review Executive Acts (1996).......................................................................................... 107
Supervision; Courts & its Personnel (Q5-2005)............................................................. 108
Taxpayer's Suit; Locus Standi (1995).............................................................................. 108
Term of Office; Justices (1996) ........................................................................................ 108
Votes required for declaring a law unconstitutional (1996) .......................................... 109
ARTICLE IX Constitutional Commissions .................................................................. 109
Rotational Scheme (1999)................................................................................................. 109
Constitutional Commissions & Council (Q7-2006) ........................................................ 109
ARTICLE IX Civil Service Commission........................................................................ 109
Career Service; Characteristics (1999) ........................................................................... 109
Civil Service Commission vs. COA (2004) ..................................................................... 109
Function of CSC (1994) ..................................................................................................... 110
GOCCs Without Original Charter vs. GOCCs With Original Charter (1998)............. 110
Jurisdiction over the GOCCs (1999)................................................................................ 111
Jurisdiction over the GOCCs (2003)................................................................................ 111
Modes of Removal from Office (1993) ............................................................................ 111
Receiving of Indirect Compensation (1997) ................................................................... 111
Security of Tenure (1988).................................................................................................. 112
Security of Tenure (Q5-2005) ........................................................................................... 112
Security of Tenure; Meaning (1999) ................................................................................ 113
ARTICLE IX COMELEC .................................................................................................... 113
Electoral Tribunal; Functions & Composition (Q5-2006).............................................. 113
Fair Election; Equal Space & Time in Media (1989) ..................................................... 113
Grant of Pardon in Election Offenses (1991) ................................................................. 114
Judicial Review of Decisions (2001)................................................................................ 114
Removal from Office; Commissioners (1998) ................................................................ 114
Right to Vote; Jurisdiction (2001) ..................................................................................... 114
Election Laws ........................................................................................................................ 114
2nd Placer Rule (2003)..................................................................................................... 114
2nd Placer Rule (1990) ...................................................................................................... 115
2nd Placer Rule; in Quo Warranto Cases (1992) .......................................................... 115
2nd Placer Rule; Rule of Succession (1996) ................................................................ 115
Appreciation of Ballots (1994)........................................................................................... 116
Disqualification; Grounds (1991) ...................................................................................... 116

Disualifications (1999)........................................................................................................ 116
Effect of Filing of Certificate of Candidacy; Appointive Officer vs Elective Officer
(2002).................................................................................................................................... 116
Effect of Filing of Certificate of Candidacy; Fair Election Act (2003).......................... 117
Election Offenses; Conspiracy to Bribe Voters (1991) ................................................. 117
Election Protest (1990) ...................................................................................................... 117
Election Protest vs. Quo Warranto (2001) ...................................................................... 118
Election Protest vs. Quo Warranto (Q5-2006) ............................................................... 118
Election Protest; Jurisdiction (1996) ................................................................................ 118
Expiration of term bars service thereof (2000)............................................................... 118
Petition to Declare Failure of Elections; Requisites & Effects (1995)......................... 118
Pre-Proclamation Contest (1987)..................................................................................... 119
Pre-Proclamation Contest (1988)..................................................................................... 119
Pre-Proclamation Contest vs. Election Contests (1997) .............................................. 120
Pre-Proclamation Contest; Proper Issues (1996).......................................................... 121
Process; Illiterate Voters (1987) ....................................................................................... 121
Process; Principle of Idem Sonans (1994) ..................................................................... 121
Process; Stray Ballot (1994) ............................................................................................. 121
Recall (2002) ....................................................................................................................... 122
Three-Term Limit Rule (2001) .......................................................................................... 122
Three-Term Limit; from Municipality to Newly-Created City (Q9-2005).................... 122
Vacancy; Effect of Vice-Mayor Acting As Mayor (2002)............................................... 123
Vacancy; Rule of Succession (1995)............................................................................... 123
Vacancy; SB; Rule on Succession (2002)...................................................................... 124
ARTICLE IX Commission on Audit ............................................................................... 124
COA; Jurisdiction (2001).................................................................................................... 124
COA; Money Claims (1998) .............................................................................................. 124
ARTICLE X Local Government ..................................................................................... 125
Appointment of Budget Officer; control vs supervision (1999) .................................... 125
Boundary Dispute Resolution; LGU; RTC’s Jurisdiction (Q10-2005)........................ 126
Boundary Dispute Settlement; Authority; Jurisdiction (1999) ...................................... 126
Creation of New Local Government Units; Plebiscite Requirement (2004) .............. 126
De Facto Public Corporations; Effect (2004).................................................................. 126
Devolution of Power (1999)............................................................................................... 126
Franchise; prior approval of LGU necessary (1988) ..................................................... 126
Law fixing the terms of local elective officials (Q4-2006) ............................................. 127
Ordinance; Use & Lease of Properties; Public Use (1997).......................................... 127
Ordinance; Validity; Closure or Lease of Properties for Public Use (2003) .............. 127
Ordinance; Validity; Compensation; Tortuous Act of an Employee (1994) ............... 127
Ordinance; Validity; Local Taxation vs. Special Assessment (1987) ......................... 128
Ordinance; Validity; Preventing Immorality (1987) ........................................................ 128
Ordinance; Validity; Utilization & Development; National Wealth (1991) .................. 128
Ordinances; Validity; Amending Nat’l Laws (1988) ....................................................... 128
Ordinances; Validity; Gambling Prohibition (1995)........................................................ 129
Ordinances; Validity; Limitation of Penalties (1991) ..................................................... 129
Ordinances; Veto Power (1996) ....................................................................................... 129
Police Power; LLDA (1995)............................................................................................... 130
Power to Issue Subpoena & Cite For Contempt (1993) ............................................... 130
Power; Eminent Domain; LGU; Right to Exercise (Q10-2005).................................... 131
Powers of Barangay Assembly (2003)............................................................................ 131
Powers; Liga ng mga Barangay (2003)........................................................................... 131

Requisites; Contracts Involving LGU (1991) .................................................................. 131
Requisites; Contracts involving LGU (1995) .................................................................. 132
Taxation; GOCC Liability For Real Estate Tax (1999).................................................. 132
Taxation; Sources of Revenue (1999)............................................................................. 132
Withdrawal of Public Property from Public Use (1990)................................................. 132
ARTICLE XI Accountability of Public Officers........................................................... 133
Abandonment of Office (2000).......................................................................................... 133
Discipline; Clemency; Doctrine of Condonation (2000) ................................................ 133
Discipline; Effect of Pardon Granted in Favor of Public Officers (1999).................... 134
Discipline; Preventive Suspension & Appeal; entitlement to salary pendente (2001)
............................................................................................................................................... 134
Discipline; Preventive Suspension (1990) ...................................................................... 134
Discipline; Preventive Suspension (2002) ...................................................................... 135
Elective and Appointive Officials: disciplinary authority (2004) ................................... 135
Elective Public Officer; De Facto Officer (2000) ............................................................ 135
Elective Public Officers; De Facto Officer; effects (2004) ............................................ 136
Graft and Corruption; Prescription of Crime (2002) ...................................................... 136
Impeachment; Cronyism (2000) ....................................................................................... 137
Impeachment; Grounds (1999)......................................................................................... 137
Impeachment; Nature; Grounds; PD 1606 (1988)......................................................... 137
Law of Public Officers; Next-in-Rank Rule (1994)......................................................... 137
Liability For Damages in Performance of Official Functions (1990) ........................... 138
Local Elective Officials; Limitations On Additional Duties (1995) ............................... 139
Ombudsman: Power to Suspend; Preventive Suspension (2004) ............................. 139
Ombudsman; Power to Investigate (2003) ..................................................................... 139
Ombudsman; Power to Suspend; Preventive Suspension (1996) ............................. 140
Power to Issue Subpoena; validity of delegation (1989) .............................................. 140
Prohibition On Elective Officer to Hold Public Office (2002)........................................ 140
Public Office; Public Trust (1998)..................................................................................... 140
Retirement Benefits (1996) ............................................................................................... 141
ARTICLE XII National Economy and Patrimony......................................................... 142
Acquisition and Lease of Public Lands (1998)............................................................... 142
Acquisition of Lands (1987)............................................................................................... 142
Acquisition of Lands (2000)............................................................................................... 143
Acquisition of Lands by Hereditary Succession (2002) ................................................ 143
Acquisition of Lands; Citizenship issue (1989) .............................................................. 143
Acquisition of Lands; Prohibition; acquisition of private lands by aliens (1994) ....... 145
Citizenship Requirement in Management of Advertising Industry (1989) ................. 145
Engagement in Business & Exercise of Profession (1987).......................................... 145
Exploration and Development of Minerals (1994) ......................................................... 146
Expropriation of Public Utilities (1992) ............................................................................ 146
Lease of Private Agricultural Lands (2001) .................................................................... 146
National Economy & Patrimony; Constitutional Prohibition (2004)............................. 147
National Patrimony; definition (1999) .............................................................................. 147
Nationalized Activities (1994)............................................................................................ 147
Ownership Requirement of Mass Media (1989) ............................................................ 148
Chinese citizens; engaging in retail trade (Q4-2006).................................................... 148
Exploration, development, and utilization of natural resources (Q4-2006) ............... 148
ARTICLE XIII Social Justice and Human Rights ......................................................... 148

Agrarian Reform Law; Coverage (1992) ......................................................................... 148
Commission on Human Rights; Power to investigate (1992) ...................................... 149
Commission on Human Rights; Power to issue TRO (1997) ...................................... 149
Commission on Human Rights; Power to issue TRO (2001) ...................................... 149
Commission on Human Rights; Power; Limitations (Q4-2005)................................... 150
Labor; Right to Self-Organization (1988) ........................................................................ 151
Labor; Right to Strike (1988)............................................................................................. 151
Labor; Right to Strike (1993)............................................................................................. 151
Social Justice under the Present Constitution (1995)................................................... 152
Women (2000)..................................................................................................................... 152
ARTICLE XIV Education, Science and Technology, Arts ......................................... 153
Education; Academic Freedom (1987)............................................................................ 153
Education; Academic Freedom; Extent (1999) .............................................................. 154
Education; Alien Enrollees & Donors (1999).................................................................. 154
Education; Duties of State in Re Education (1999)....................................................... 154
Education; Flag Salute (1987) .......................................................................................... 155
Education; Right to Choose Profession (2000).............................................................. 155
Education; Right to Quality Education (2003) ................................................................ 156
Education; Teaching of Religion (1999).......................................................................... 156
Education; Validity of Academic Requirements (1994) ................................................ 156
ARTICLE XVI General Provisions .................................................................................. 156
General Provisions; Local Dialect (1987)........................................................................ 156
AFP; limitation on accepting additional duties (1996)................................................... 157
ARTICLE XVII Amendments or Revisions .................................................................... 157
People’s Initiative (2004) ................................................................................................... 157
Amendments and Revisions; Modes (1997) .................................................................. 157
REFERENDUM vs. INITIATIVE (Q1-2005).................................................................... 157
ARTICLE XVIII Transitory Provisions.............................................................................. 158
Transitory Provisions; Foreign Military Bases (1996) ................................................... 158
Transitory Provisions; Foreign Military Bases (1988) ................................................... 158
PUBLIC INTERNATIONAL LAW ........................................................................................ 158
Basic Principles in Public Int’l Law (1991) ...................................................................... 158
Constitutive Theory vs. Declaratory Theory (2004)....................................................... 160
Contiguous Zone vs. Exclusive Economic Zone (2004).............................................. 160
Diplomatic Immunity (2000) .............................................................................................. 160
Diplomatic Immunity; Ambassador (Q3-2005) ............................................................... 162
Diplomatic Immunity; Ambassadors (1990).................................................................... 162
Diplomatic Immunity; Coverage (Q3-2005) .................................................................... 163
Diplomatic Immunity; Diplomatic Envoy and Consular Officers (1995)...................... 164
Diplomatic Immunity; Diplomatic Envoy and Consular Officers (1997)...................... 165
Exclusive Economic Zone (2000)..................................................................................... 165
Executive Agreements; Binding Effect (2003)................................................................ 165
Extradition vs. Deportation (1993).................................................................................... 166
Extradition; Doctrine of Specialty (1993)......................................................................... 166
Extradition; Effectivity of treaty (1996)............................................................................. 166
Extradition; Grounds (2002) .............................................................................................. 167

Extradition; Retroactive Application (Q2-2005).............................................................. 167
Flag State vs. Flag of Convenience (2004).................................................................. 168
Genocide (1988) ................................................................................................................. 168
Human Rights (1999) ......................................................................................................... 168
Human Rights; Civil and Political Rights (1992) ............................................................ 168
Human Rights; Civil and Political Rights (1996) ............................................................ 169
Int’l Court of Justice; Jurisdiction Over States................................................................ 170
Int’l Court of Justice; Jurisdiction Over States (1994)................................................... 170
Int’l Court of Justice; Limitations On Jurisdiction (1999) .............................................. 170
Int’l Court of Justice; Parties; Pleadings and Oral Argument (1994).......................... 170
International Convention; Law of the Sea (2004) .......................................................... 171
International Court of Justice (Q9-2006)......................................................................... 171
International Law vs. Municipal Law; Territorial Principle; International Crimes (Q2-
2005)..................................................................................................................................... 171
Mandates and Trust Territories (2003)............................................................................ 172
Municipal Law vs. International Law (2003) ................................................................... 173
Neutrality of States (1988)................................................................................................. 173
Outer Space; Jurisdiction (2003)...................................................................................... 174
Principle of Auto-Limitation (Q10-2006) .......................................................................... 174
Reciprocity v. Principle of Auto-Limitation (Q10-2006)................................................. 174
Recognition of States; De Facto vs. De Jure Recognition (1998) .............................. 174
Reparations Agreement; Validity (1992) ......................................................................... 175
Right to Innocent Passage (1999).................................................................................... 175
Right to Transit and Innocent Passage (2004) .............................................................. 176
Rights and Obligation under UN Charter (1991)............................................................ 176
Sources of International Law; Primary & Subsidiary Sources (2003) ........................ 177
Sovereign Immunity of States; Absolute vs. Restrictive (1998) .................................. 177
Sovereignty of States; Natural Use of Territory (1989)................................................. 178
Sovereignty; Definition; Nature (Q10-2006) ................................................................... 178
State Liabilities (1995)........................................................................................................ 179
State Sovereignty; Effective Occupation; Terra Nullius (2000) ................................... 179
Stateless Persons; Effects; Status; Rights (1995)......................................................... 179
Territorial Sea vs. Internal Waters (2004)....................................................................... 180
Use of Force; Exceptions (2003)...................................................................................... 180
Use of Force; Principle of Non-Intervention (1994)....................................................... 181
Use of Force; Right of Self-defense (2002).................................................................... 182
Use of Force; Self-Defense; Waging War (1998).......................................................... 182
Use of Force; When allowed (1988) ................................................................................ 183
War; Combatants/ Prisoners of War vs. Mercenaries (1993) ...................................... 183
Wilson doctrine vs. Estrada doctrine (2004)................................................................... 184
ADMINISTRATIVE LAW....................................................................................................... 184
Admin Law; Exhaustion of Administrative Remedies (1991)....................................... 184
Admin Law; Exhaustion of Administrative Remedies (2000)....................................... 184
Admin Law; Exhaustion of Administrative Remedies vs Doctrine of Primary
Jurisdiction (1996) .............................................................................................................. 185
Admin Law; Exhaustion of Administrative Remedies; Exceptions (1991) ................. 185
Admin Law; Judicial Review of Administrative Action (2001) ...................................... 186
Admin Law; Judicial Review of Administrative Decisions (1988)................................ 186
Admin Law; Meaning of “Government of the Philippines” (1997) ............................... 187
Admin Law; Power of the President to Reorganize Administrative Structure (2003)
............................................................................................................................................... 187

Admin Law; Rules and Regulations; Due Process (2000) ........................................... 187
Government Agency vs. Government Instrumentality (Q7-2005)............................... 188
Quasi-Judicial Body or Agency (Q5-2006) ..................................................................... 188

1987 CONSTITUTION OF THE
PHILIPPINES
Phil Con 87; New Features (1991)
No 1: How is the Bill of Rights strengthened in
the 1987 Constitution?
SUGGESTED ANSWER:
There are several ways in which the Bill of
Rights is strengthened in the 1987 Constitution.
1. New rights are given explicit recognition
such as, the prohibition against detention by
reason of political beliefs and aspirations.
The waiver of Miranda rights is now
required to be made in writing with the
assistance of counsel. The use of solitary,
incommunicado and secret detention places
is prohibited, while the existence of
substandard and inadequate penal facilities
is made the concern of legislation.
2. There is also recognition of the right of
expression, an express prohibition against
the use of torture, a mandate to the State to
provide compensation and rehabilitation for
victims of torture and their families.
3. Some rights have been expanded. For
instance, free access to courts now
includes access to quasi-judicial bodies and
to adequate legal assistance.
4. The requirements for interfering with some
rights have been made more strict. For
instance, only judges can now issue search
warrants or warrants of arrest. There must
be a law authorizing the Executive
Department to interfere with the privacy of
communication, the liberty of abode, and
the right to travel before these rights may
be impaired or curtailed.
5. The Constitution now provides that the
suspension of the privilege of the writ of
habeas corpus does not suspend the right
to bail, thus resolving a doctrinal dispute of
long standing.
6. The suspension of the privilege of the writ
of habeas corpus and the proclamation of
martial law have been limited to sixty (60)
days and are now subject to the power of
Congress to revoke. In addition, the
Supreme Court is given the jurisdiction,
upon the petition of any citizen to determine
the sufficiency of the factual basis of the
suspension of the privilege of the writ of
habeas corpus and the proclamation of
martial law.
7. The Supreme Court is empowered to adopt
rules for the protection and enforcement of
constitutional rights.
8. Art. II. Sec. 11 commits the State to a policy
which places value on the dignity of every
human person and guarantees full respect
for human rights.
9. A Commission on Human Rights is created.
10. Under Article XVI. Sec. 5(2) the State is
mandated to promote respect for the
people's rights among the members of the
military in the performance of their duty.
Phil Con 87; People Power (1987)
No. XVIII: The framers of the 1987 Constitution
and the people who ratified it made sure that
provisions institutionalizing people power were
incorporated in the fundamental law, Briefly
discuss at least two such provisions.
SUGGESTED ANSWER:
Art. VI, Sec. 1, while vesting in Congress the
legislative power, nonetheless states that such
conferment of power shall be subject to the
reservation made in favor of the people by
provisions on initiatives and referendum. For
this purpose, Congress is required, as early as
possible, to provide for a system of initiative of
referendum whereby the people can directly
propose and enact laws or approve or reject an
act or law or part thereof passed by the
Congress or the legislative bodies after the
registration of a petition therefor, signed by at
least 10% of the total number of registered
voters, of which every legislative district must
be represented by at least 3% of the registered
voters. (Id., sec. 32) The Constitution also
provides that through initiative, upon a petition
of at least 12% of the total numbers of
registered voters, of which every legislative
district must be represented by at least 3% of
the registered voters therein, amendments to
the Constitution may be directly proposed by
the people.
Art, XIII, sec. 15 states that the state shall
respect the role of independent people's
organization to enable them to pursue and
protect, within the democratic framework, their
legitimate and collective interests and
aspirations through peaceful lawful means. For
this purpose, the Constitution guarantees to
such organizations the right to participate at all
levels of social, political and economic decision-making
and the state is required to validate the

establishment of adequate mechanism for this
purpose. (Id., sec, 16)
No IX. Is the concept of People Power
recognized in the Constitution? Discuss briefly.
(3%)
SUGGESTED ANSWER:
Yes, the concept of People Power is recognized
in the Constitution.
Under Section 32. Article VI of the Constitution,
through initiative and referendum, the people
can directly propose and enact laws or approve
or reject any act or law or part thereof passed
by the Congress or local legislative body after
the registration of a petition therefor signed by
at least ten per centum of the total number of
registered voters, of which every legislative
district must be represented by at least three
per centum of the registered voters thereof.
Under Section 16, Article XIII of the
Constitution, the right of the people and their
organizations to effective and reasonable
participation at all levels of social, political and
economic decision-making shall not be
abridged. The State shall, by law facilitate the
establishment of adequate consultation
mechanisms.
Under Section 2. Article XVII of the
Constitution, the people may directly propose
amendments to the Constitution through
initiative upon a petition of at least twelve per
centum of the total number of registered voters,
of which every legislative district must be
represented by at least three per centum of the
registered voters therein.
No I - Is "people power" recognized by the
1987 Constitution? Explain fully.
SUGGESTED ANSWER:
"People power" is recognized in the
Constitution.
Article III, Section 4 of the 1987 Constitution
guarantees the right of the people peaceable to
assemble and petition the government for
redress of grievances.
Article VI, Section 32 of the 1987 Constitution
requires Congress to pass a law allowing the
people to directly propose and enact laws
through initiative and to approve or reject any
act or law or part of it passed by Congress or a
local legislative body.
Article XIII, Section 16 of the 1987 Constitution
provides that the right of the people and their
organizations to participate at all levels of
social, political, and economic decision-making
shall not be abridged and that the State shall,
by law, facilitate the establishment of adequate
consultation mechanisms.
Article XVII, Section 2 of the 1987 Constitution
provides that subject to the enactment of an
implementing law, the people may directly
propose amendments to the Constitution
through initiative.
Nature of the Constitution: Constitutional
Supremacy (2004)
(10-a) BNN Republic has a defense treaty with
EVA Federation. According to the Republic's
Secretary of Defense, the treaty allows
temporary basing of friendly foreign troops in
case of training exercises for the war on
terrorism. The Majority Leader of the Senate
contends that whether temporary or not, the
basing of foreign troops however friendly is
prohibited by the Constitution of BNN which
provides that, "No foreign military bases shall
be allowed in BNN territory."
In case there is indeed an irreconcilable conflict
between a provision of the treaty and a
provision of the Constitution, in a jurisdiction
and legal system like ours, which should
prevail: the provision of the treaty or of the
Constitution? Why? Explain with reasons,
briefly. (5%)
SUGGESTED ANSWER:
In case of conflict between a provision of a
treaty and a provision of the Constitution, the
provision of the Constitution should prevail.
Section 5(2)(a), Article VIII of the 1987
Constitution authorizes the nullification of a
treaty when it conflicts with the Constitution.
(Gonzales v. Hechanova, 9 SCRA 230 [1963]).
Government Presidential Form vs. Parlia-mentary
Form (Q6-2006)
1. a) What is the principal identifying feature
of a presidential form of government? Explain.
(2.5%)
SUGGESTED ANSWER:
The principal identifying feature of a presidential
form of government is embodied in the
separation of powers doctrine. Each
department of government exercises powers
granted to it by the Constitution and may not
control, interfere with or encroach upon the acts
done within the constitutional competence of
the others. However, the Constitution also gives
each department certain powers by which it

may definitely restrain the others from
improvident action, thereby maintaining a
system of checks and balances among them,
thus, preserving the will of the sovereign
expressed in the Constitution.
b) What are the essential characteristics of a
parliamentary form of government? (2.5%)
SUGGESTED ANSWER:
The essential characteristics of a parliamentary
form of government are: the fusion of the
legislative and executive branches in
parliament; the prime minister, who is the head
of government, and the members of the
cabinet, are chosen from among the members
of parliament and as such are accountable to
the latter; and the prime minister may be
removed from office by a vote of loss of
confidence of parliament. There may be a head
of state who may or may not be elected.
ARTICLE I National Territory
Archipelagic Doctrine (1989)
No. 20: What do you understand by the
archipelagic doctrine? Is this reflected in the
1987 Constitution?
SUGGESTED ANSWER:
The ARCHIPELAGIC DOCTRINE emphasizes
the unity of land and waters by defining an
archipelago either as a group of islands
surrounded by waters or a body of waters
studded with islands. For this purpose, it
requires that baselines be drawn by connecting
the appropriate points of the "outermost islands
to encircle the islands within the archipelago.
The waters on the landward side of the
baselines regardless of breadth or dimensions
are merely internal waters.
Yes, the archipelagic doctrine is reflected in the
1987 Constitution. Article I, Section 1 provides
that the national territory of the Philippines
includes the Philippine archipelago, with all the
islands and waters embraced therein; and the
waters around, between, and connecting the
islands of the archipelago, regardless of their
breadth and dimensions, form part of the
internal waters of the Philippines.
Contiguous Zone vs. Exclusive Economic
Zone (2004)
(2-a-2) Distinguish: The contiguous zone and
the exclusive economic zone.
SUGGESTED ANSWER:
CONTIGUOUS ZONE is a zone contiguous to
the territorial sea and extends up to 12 nautical
miles from the territorial sea and over which the
coastal state may exercise control necessary to
prevent infringement of its customs, fiscal,
immigration or sanitary laws and regulations
within its territory or territorial sea. (Article 33 of
the Convention on the Law of the Sea.)
The EXCLUSIVE ECONOMIC ZONE is a zone
extending up to 200 nautical miles from the
baselines of a state over which the coastal state
has sovereign rights for the purpose of
exploring and exploiting, conserving and
managing the natural resources, whether living
or nonliving, of the waters superjacent to the
seabed and of the seabed and subsoil, and with
regard to other activities for the economic
exploitation and exploration of the zone.
(Articles 56 and 57 of the Convention on the
Law of the Sea.)
Exclusive Economic Zone; Rights of the
Coastal State (1994)
No. 11: In the desire to improve the fishing
methods of the fishermen, the Bureau of
Fisheries, with the approval of the President,
entered into a memorandum of agreement to
allow Thai fishermen to fish within 200 miles
from the Philippine sea coasts on the condition
that Filipino fishermen be allowed to use Thai
fishing equipment and vessels, and to learn
modern technology in fishing and canning.
1) Is the agreement valid?
SUGGESTED ANSWER:
1) No. the President cannot authorize the
Bureau of Fisheries to enter into a
memorandum of agreement allowing Thai
fishermen to fish within the exclusive economic
zone of the Philippines, because the
Constitution reserves to Filipino citizens the use
and enjoyment of the exclusive economic zone
of the Philippines.
Section 2. Article XII of the Constitution
provides: “The State shall protect the nation's
marine part in its archipelagic waters, territorial
sea, and exclusive economic zone, and reserve
its use and enjoyment to Filipino citizens."
Section 7, Article XIII of the Constitution
provides: "The State shall protect the rights of
subsistence fishermen, especially of local
communities, to the preferential use of the
communal marine and fishing resources, both
inland and offshore. It shall provide support to
such fishermen through appropriate technology
and research, adequate financial, production,
and marketing assistance, and other services.
The State shall also protect, develop, and
conserve such resources. The protection shall
extend to offshore fishing grounds of

subsistence fishermen against foreign intrusion.
Fishworkers shall receive a just share from their
labor in the utilization of marine and fishing
resources.
Exclusive Economic Zone; Rights of the
Coastal State (Q1-2005)
(c) Enumerate the rights of the coastal state
in the exclusive economic zone. (3%)
ALTERNATIVE ANSWER:
In the EXCLUSIVE ECONOMIC ZONE, the
coastal State has sovereign rights for the
purpose of exploring and exploiting, conserving
and managing the natural resources, whether
living or non-living, of the waters superjacent to
the seabed and of the seabed and its subsoil,
and with regard to other activities for the
economic exploitation and exploration of the
zone, such as the production of energy from the
water, currents and winds in an area not
extending more than 200 nautical miles beyond
the baseline from which the territorial sea is
measured. Other rights include the production
of energy from the water, currents and winds,
the establishment and use of artificial islands,
installations and structures, marine scientific
research and the protection and preservation of
the marine environment. (Art. 56, U.N.
Convention on the Law of the Sea)
ALTERNATIVE ANSWER:
SOVEREIGN RIGHTS — for the purpose of
exploring and exploiting, conserving and
managing the natural resources, whether living
or non-living, of the seabed and subsoil and the
superjacent waters, and with regard to other
activities such as the production of energy from
the water, currents and winds in an area not
extending more than 200 nautical miles beyond
the baseline from which the territorial sea is
measured. (See Art. 56, UNCLOS)
Jurisdiction, inter alia, with regard to:
(1) the establishment and use of artificial
islands, installations and structures;
(2) marine scientific research; and
(3) the protection and preservation of the
marine environment.
Flag State vs. Flag of Convenience (2004)
(2-a-3) Distinguish: The flag state and the flag
of convenience.
SUGGESTED ANSWER:
FLAG STATE means a ship has the nationality
of the flag of the state it flies, but there must be
a genuine link between the state and the ship.
(Article 91 of the Convention on the Law of the Sea.)
FLAG OF CONVENIENCE refers to a state with
which a vessel is registered for various reasons
such as low or non-existent taxation or low
operating costs although the ship has no
genuine link with that state. (Harris, Cases and
Materials on International Law, 5th ed., 1998, p. 425.)
Territory & Government (1996)
No. 8: A law was passed dividing the
Philippines into three regions (Luzon, Visayas,
and Mindanao), each constituting an
independent state except on matters of foreign
relations, national defense and national
taxation, which are vested in the Central
government. Is the law valid? Explain.
SUGGESTED ANSWER:
The law dividing the Philippines into three
regions, each constituting an independent state
and vesting in a central government matters of
foreign relations, national defense, and national
taxation, is unconstitutional.
First, it violates Article I, which guarantees the
integrity of the national territory of the
Philippines because it divided the Philippines
into three states.
Second, it violates Section 1, Article II of the
Constitution, which provides for the
establishment of democratic and republic
States by replacing it with three States
organized as a confederation.
Third, it violates Section 22, Article II of the
Constitution, which, while recognizing and
promoting the rights of indigenous cultural
communities, provides for national unity and
development.
Fourth, it violates Section 15, Article X of the
Constitution, which, provides for autonomous
regions in Muslim Mindanao and in the
Cordilleras within the framework of national
sovereignty as well as territorial integrity of the
Republic of the Philippines.
Fifth, it violates the sovereignty of the Republic
of the Philippines.
Territorial Sea vs. Internal Waters (2004)
(2-a-1) Distinguish: The territorial sea and the
internal waters of the Philippines.
SUGGESTED ANSWER:
TERRITORIAL SEA is an adjacent belt of sea
with a breadth of 12 nautical miles measured
from the baselines of a state and over which the
state has sovereignty. (Articles 2 and 3 of the
Convention on the Law of the Sea.) Ship of all
states enjoy the right of innocent passage

through the territorial sea. (Article 14 of the
Convention on the Law of the Sea.)
Under Section 1, Article I of the 1987
Constitution, the INTERNAL WATERS of the
Philippines consist of the waters around,
between and connecting the islands of the
Philippine Archipelago, regardless of their
breadth and dimensions, including the waters in
bays, rivers and lakes. No right of innocent
passage for foreign vessels exists in the case of
internal waters. (Harris, Cases and Materials on
International Law, 5th ed., 1998, p. 407.)
Internal waters are the waters on the landward
side of baselines from which the breadth of the
territorial sea is calculated. (Brownlie, Principles
of Public International Law, 4th ed., 1990, p. 120.)
ARTICLE II Declaration of
Principles and State Policies
Armed Forces; Servant of the People (2003)
No I - Article II. Section 3, of the 1987
Constitution expresses, in part, that the "Armed
Forces of the Philippines is the protector of the
people and (of) the State." Describe briefly what
this provision means. Is the Philippine National
Police covered by the same mandate?
FIRST ALTERNATIVE ANSWER:
Article II, Section 3 of the 1987 Constitution
means that the Armed Forces of the Philippines
should not serve the interest of the President
but of the people and should not commit
abuses against the people. (Record of the
Constitutional Commission, Vol. V, p. 133.) This
provision is specifically addressed to the Armed
Forces of the Philippines and not to the
Philippine National Police, because the latter is
separate and distinct from the former. (Record
of the Constitutional Commission, Vol. V, p. 296;
Manalo v. Sistoza. 312 SCR A 239 [1999].)
SECOND ALTERNATIVE ANSWER:
Article II, Section 3 of the 1987 Constitution can
be interpreted to mean that the Armed Forces
of the Philippines can be a legitimate instrument
for the overthrow of the civilian government if it
has ceased to be the servant of the people.
(Bernas, The 1987 Constitution of the Philippines:
A Commentary, 2003 ed., p. 66.) This provision
does not apply to the Philippine National Police,
because it is separate and distinct from the
Armed Forces of the Philippines. (Record of the
Constitutional Commission, Vol. V, p. 296, Manalo v.
Sistoza. 312 SCRA 239 [1999].)
Doctrine of Incorporation; Constitutional
Law (1997)
No. 1; What do you understand by the "Doctrine
of Incorporation" in Constitutional Law?
SUGGESTED ANSWER:
The DOCTRINE OF INCORPORATION means
that the rules of International law form part of
the law of the land and no legislative action is
required to make them applicable to a country.
The Philippines follows this doctrine, because
Section 2. Article II of the Constitution states
that the Philippines adopts the generally
accepted principles of international law as part
of the law of the land.
Doctrine of Incorporation; Pacta Sunt
Servanda (2000)
No X. The Philippines has become a member of
the World Trade Organization (WTO) and
resultantly agreed that it "shall ensure the
conformity of its laws, regulations and
administrative procedures with its obligations as
provided in the annexed Agreements." This is
assailed as unconstitutional because this
undertaking unduly limits, restricts and impairs
Philippine sovereignty and means among
others that Congress could not pass legislation
that will be good for our national interest and
general welfare if such legislation will not
conform with the WTO Agreements. Refute this
argument. (5%)
SUGGESTED ANSWER:
According to Tanada v. Angara, 272 SCRA 18
(1997), the sovereignty of the Philippines is
subject to restriction by its membership in the
family of nations and the limitations imposed of
treaty limitations. Section 2. Article II of the
Constitution adopts the generally accepted
principles of international law as part of the law
of the land. One of such principles is pacta sunt
servanda. The Constitution did not envision a
hermit-like isolation of the country from the rest
of the world.
Freedom from Nuclear Weapons; Foreign
Military Bases (1988)
No. 22: The Secretary of Justice had recently
ruled that the President may negotiate for a
modification or extension of military bases
agreement with the United States regardless of
the "no nukes" provisions in the 1987
Constitution. The President forthwith
announced that she finds the same opinion
"acceptable" and will adopt it. The Senators on
the other hand, led by the Senate President,
are skeptical, and had even warned that no
treaty or international agreement may go into
effect without the concurrence of two-thirds of
all members of the Senate.

A former senator had said, "it is completely
wrong, if not erroneous," and "is an amendment
of the Constitution by misinterpretation." Some
members of the Lower House agree with
Secretary Ordonez, while others lament the
latter's opinion as "questionable, unfortunate,
and without any basis at all."
Do you or do you not agree with the
aforementioned ruling of the Department of
Justice? Why?
SUGGESTED ANSWER:
No. The Constitution provides that if foreign
military bases, troops or facilities are to be
allowed after the expiration of the present
Philippine-American Military Bases Agreement
in 1991, it must be "under a treaty duly
concurred in by the Senate and, when the
Congress so requires, ratified by a majority of
the votes cast by the people in a national
referendum." (Art. XVIII, sec. 25) A mere
agreement, therefore, not a treaty, without the
concurrence of at least 2/3 of all the members
of the Senate will not be valid (Art. VII, sec. 21,
Art. XVIII, sec. 4). With respect to the provision
allowing nuclear weapons within the bases, the
Constitution appears to ban such weapons from
the Philippine territory. It declares as a state
policy that "the Philippines, consistent with the
national interest, adopts and pursues a policy of
freedom from nuclear weapons in its territory."
(Art, II, sec. 8) However, the deliberations of the
Constitutional Commission would seem to
indicate that this provision of the Constitution is
"not something absolute nor 100 percent
without exception." It may therefore be that
circumstances may justify a provision on
nuclear weapons.
Philippine Flag (Q4-2006)
State whether or not the law is constitutional.
Explain briefly.
1. A law changing the design of the
Philippine flag. (2%)
ALTERNATIVE ANSWER:
The law is invalid considering that under Article
XVI, Section 1 of the 1987 Constitution, the flag
of the Philippines shall be red, white, and blue,
with a sun and three stars, as consecrated and
honored by the people and recognized by law.
Since the Constitution itself prescribes the
design, it can only be changed by constitutional
amendment.
ALTERNATIVE ANSWER:
The law is valid, provided that the new design
does not change the elements and color
scheme of the flag as stated in the Constitution,
and the flag is consecrated and honored by the
people. Since the Constitution itself states that
the flag must be recognized by law, it implies
that certain aspects of the flag are subject to
change through legislative action.
Principle of Civilian Supremacy (Q6-2006)
2. What Constitutional provisions institutionalize
the principle of civilian supremacy? (2.5%)
SUGGESTED ANSWER:
The following constitutional provisions
institutionalize the principle of civilian
supremacy:
a. Civilian authority is at all times supreme
over the military. [Article II, Section 3]
b. The installation of the President, the
highest civilian authority, as the
Commander-in-Chief of the military. [Ar-ticle
VII, Section 18]
c. The requirement that members of the
AFP swear to uphold and defend the
Constitution, which is the fundamental law
of the civil government. [Article XVI,
Section 5(1)]
d. The requirement that members of the
AFP shall have respect for people's rights
in the performance of their duty. [Article
XVI, Section 5(2)]
e. Professionalism in the armed forces.
[Article XVI, Section 5(3)]
f. Insulation of the AFP from partisan
politics. [Article XVI, Section 5(3)]
g. Prohibition against the appointment of an
AFP member in the active service to a
civilian position. [Article XVI, Section 5(4)]
h. Compulsory retirement of officers without
extension of service. [Article XVI, Section
5(5)]
i. Requirement of proportional recruitment
from all provinces and cities, so as to
avoid any regional clique from forming
within the AFP. [Article XVI, Section 5(7)]
j. A 3-year limitation on the tour of duty of
the Chief of Staff, which although
extendible in case of emergency by the
President, depends on Congressional
declaration of emergency. [Article XVI,
Section 5(6)]
The establishment of a police force that is not
only civilian in character but also under the local
executives. [Article XVI, Section 5(7)]
State Immunity from Suit (1991)
No. 13; In February 1990, the Ministry of the
Army. Republic of Indonesia, invited bids for the
supply of 500,000 pairs of combat boots for the
use of the Indonesian Army. The Marikina Shoe
Corporation, a Philippine corporation, which has
no branch office and no assets in Indonesia,
submitted a bid to supply 500,000 pairs of

combat boots at U.S. $30 per pair delivered in
Jakarta on or before 30 October 1990. The
contract was awarded by the Ministry of the
Army to Marikina Shoe Corporation and was
signed by the parties in Jakarta. Marikina Shoe
Corporation was able to deliver only 200,000
pairs of combat boots in Jakarta by 30 October
1990 and it received payment for 100,000 pairs
or a total of U.S. $3,000,000.00. The Ministry of
the Army promised to pay for the other 100,000
pairs already delivered as soon as the
remaining 300,000 pairs of combat boots are
delivered, at which time the said 300,000 pairs
will also be paid for. Marikina Shoe Corporation
failed to deliver any more combat boots.
On 1 June 1991, the Republic of Indonesia filed
an action before the Regional Trial Court of
Pasig. Rizal, to compel Marikina Shoe
Corporation to perform the balance of its
obligations under the contract and for damages.
In its Answer, Marikina Shoe Corporation sets
up a counterclaim for U.S. $3,000,000.00
representing the payment for the 100,000 pairs
of combat boots already delivered but unpaid.
Indonesia moved to dismiss the counterclaim,
asserting that it is entitled to sovereign
Immunity from suit. The trial court denied the
motion to dismiss and issued two writs of
garnishment upon Indonesian Government
funds deposited in the Philippine National Bank
and Far East Bank. Indonesia went to the Court
of Appeals on a petition for certiorari under Rule
65 of the Rules of Court.
How would the Court of Appeals decide the
case?
SUGGESTED ANSWER:
The Court of Appeals should dismiss the
petition insofar as it seeks to annul the order
denying the motion of the Government of
Indonesia to dismiss the counterclaim. The
counterclaim in this case is a compulsory
counterclaim since it arises from the same
contract involved in the complaint. As such it
must be set up otherwise it will be barred.
Above all, as held in Froilan vs. Pan Oriental
Shipping Co., 95 Phil. 905, by filing a complaint,
the state of Indonesia waived its immunity from
suit. It is not right that it can sue in the courts
but it cannot be sued. The defendant therefore
acquires the right to set up a compulsory
counterclaim against it.
However, the Court of Appeals should grant the
petition of the Indonesian government insofar
as it sought to annul the garnishment of the
funds of Indonesia which were deposited in the
Philippine National Bank and Far East Bank.
Consent to the exercise of jurisdiction of a
foreign court does not include waiver of the
separate immunity from execution. (Brownlie,
Principles of Public International Law, 4th ed., p.
344.) Thus, in Dexter vs. Carpenter vs. Kunglig
Jarnvagsstyrelsen, 43 Fed 705, it was held the
consent to be sued does not give consent to the
attachment of the property of a sovereign
government.
No. 6; The Republic of the Balau (formerly
Palau Islands) opened and operated in Manila
an office engaged in trading Balau products
with Philippine products. In one transaction,
the local buyer complained that the Balau
goods delivered to him were substandard and
he sued the Republic of Balau, before the
Regional Trial Court of Pasig, for damages.
a) How can the Republic of Balau invoke its
sovereign immunity? Explain.
b) Will such defense of sovereign immunity
prosper? Explain.
SUGGESTED ANSWER:
A) The Republic of Balau can invoke its
sovereign Immunity by filing a motion to dismiss
in accordance with Section l(a), Rule 16 of the
Rules of Court on the ground that the court has
no jurisdiction over its person.
According to the Holy See vs. Rosario, 238
SCRA 524, in Public International Law, when a
State wishes to plead sovereign immunity in a
foreign court, it requests the Foreign Office of
the State where it is being sued to convey to
the court that it is entitled to immunity. In the
Philippines, the practice is for the foreign
government to first secure an executive
endorsement of its claim of sovereign immunity.
In some cases, the defense of sovereign
immunity is submitted directly to the local court
by the foreign government through counsel by
filing a motion to dismiss on the ground that the
court has no Jurisdiction over its person.
b) No, the defense of sovereign Immunity will
not prosper. The sale of Balau products is a
contract involving a commercial activity. In
United States vs. Ruiz, 136SCRA487 and
United States vs. Guinto, 182 SCRA 644, it was
stated that a foreign State cannot invoke
Immunity from suit if it enters into a commercial
contract. The Philippines adheres to
RESTRICTIVE SOVEREIGN IMMUNITY.
No. 13: A property owner filed an action directly
in court against the Republic of the Philippines

seeking payment for a parcel of land which the
national government utilized for a road widening
project.
(1) Can the government invoke the doctrine of
non-suitability of the state?
(2) In connection with the preceding question,
can the property owner garnish public
funds to satisfy his claim for payment?
Explain your answers.
SUGGESTED ANSWER:
(1) No, the government cannot invoke the
doctrine of state of immunity from suit. As held
in Ministerio vs. Court of First Instance of Cebu,
40 SCRA 464, when the government
expropriates property for public use without
paying just compensation, it cannot invoke its
immunity from the suit. Otherwise, the right
guaranteed in Section 9, Article III of the 1987
Constitution that private property shall not be
taken for public use without just compensation
will be rendered nugatory.
(2) No, the owner cannot garnish public funds
to satisfy his claim for payment, Section 7 of Act
No. 3083 prohibits execution upon any
judgment against the government. As held in
Republic vs. Palacio, 23 SCRA 899, even if the
government may be sued, it does not follow that
its properties may be seized under execution.
ALTERNATIVE ANSWER:
(2) No, funds of the government on deposit in
the bank cannot be garnished for two reasons:
1. Under Art. II, Sec. 29 (1) public funds
cannot be spent except in pursuance of an
appropriation made by law, and
2. essential public services will be impaired if
funds of the government were subject to
execution, (Commissioner of Public
Highways vs. San Diego, 31 SCRA 616
(1970)). The remedy of the prevailing party
is to have the judgment credit in his favor
included in the general appropriations law
for the next year.
No. 6; Johnny was employed as a driver by the
Municipality of Calumpit, Bulacan. While driving
recklessly a municipal dump truck with its load
of sand for the repair of municipal streets,
Johnny hit a jeepney. Two passengers of the
jeepney were killed.
The Sangguniang Bayan passed an ordinance
appropriating P300,000 as compensation for
the heirs of the victims.
1) Is the municipality liable for the negligence
of Johnny?
2) Is the municipal ordinance valid?
SUGGESTED ANSWER:
1) Yes, the Municipality of Calumpit is liable for
the negligence of its driver Johnny. Under
Section 24 of the Local Government Code, local
government units are not exempt from liability
for death or injury to persons or damage to
property.
ALTERNATIVE ANSWER:
No, the municipality is not liable for the
negligence of Johnny, the prevailing rule in the
law of municipal corporations is that a
municipality is not liable for the torts committed
by its regular employees in the discharge of
governmental functions. The municipality is
answerable only when it is acting in a
proprietary capacity.
In the case at bar, Johnny was a regular
employee of the Municipality of Calumpit as
driver of its dump truck; he committed a tortious
act while discharging a governmental function
for the municipality, ie., driving recklessly the
said truck loaded with sand for the repair of
municipal streets. Undoubtedly then, Johnny as
driver of the dump truck was performing a duty
or task pertaining to his office. The construction
or maintenance of public streets are admittedly
governmental activities. At the time of the
accident, Johnny was engaged in the discharge
of governmental functions.
Hence, the death of the two passengers of the
jeepney -tragic and deplorable though it may be
- imposed on the municipality no duty to pay
monetary compensation, as held in Municipality
of San. Fernando v. Firme, 195 SCRA 692.
No. 9: The Northern Luzon Irrigation Authority
(NLIA) was established by a legislative charter
to strengthen the irrigation systems that supply
water to farms and commercial growers in the
area. While the NLIA is able to generate
revenues through its operations, it receives an
annual appropriation from Congress. The NLIA
is authorized to "exercise all the powers of a
corporation under the Corporation Code."
Due to a miscalculation by some of its
employees, there was a massive irrigation
overflow causing a flash flood in Barrio Zanjera.
A child drowned in the incident and his parents
now file suit against The NLIA for damages.
May the NLIA validly invoke the immunity of the
State from suit? Discuss thoroughly.
SUGGESTED ANSWER:

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