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Torts and Damages
I . Concept/ Definition: Culpa Aquiliana Quasi Delitos Tort
The term Tort is of Anglo-American law-common law which is broader in
scope than the Spanish-Phil concept which is limited to negligence while the former
includes international or criminal acts. Torts in Philippine law is the blending of
common-law and civil law system.
Definition Quasi Delict or tort refers to acts or omission causes damage to another,
there is being fault or negligence, is obliged to pay for the damages done. If there is
no pre-existing contractual relation between the parties, such fault or negligence is
called quasi-delict governed by Civil Code.
The law holds a person civilly liable for the damage caused by his faulty or
negligent act or omission.
Elements of Quasi Delict:
1. Damages suffered by the plaintiff
2. Fault or negligence of the defendant
3. Casual connection between the fault or negligence of the defendants act and the damages
incurred by the plaintiff (Andamo vs IAC, 191 SCRA 426, 96)
4. No pre-existing contractual relation between the parties. However, the supreme court
held that even if there is contractual relation, nevertheless the act that break the contract
may be also be tort, in cases of Air France vs Carrascaso, 18 SCRA 155; Singson vs BPI,
23 SCRA 1117, 63; and Fabre Jr vs CA, 259 SCRA 426, 96)

II. Distinctions
1. a. Fault signifies voluntary act or omission causing damages to the right of another
giving rise to an obligation of the actor to repair such damage.
Fault is of two (2) kinds:
i.
Substantive and independent fault in that there is no pre-existing
relation. This is the one referred to Art. 2176 NCC and source of an
obligation. It is also known as culpa extra contractual or culpa
aquiliana covered by Art. 2176 NCC.

ii.

Fault as an incident in the performance of an obligation existing is

known as contractual fault or culpa contractual governed by Art.
1170-73 of NCC.

b. Negligence consist in the omission to do certain acts which result to the damage
to another.
2. As to Intennt to cause damage to another thru an act or omission:
a. It is culpa absence such intent, the actors liability is civil governed by
the Civil Code.
b. It is dolo presence of such intent and the act or omission becomes crime
and the actors civil liability is governed by the provisions of the Revised
Penal Code
Distinctions Importance of knowing these distinctions lies in filing the proper cause
of action against the tortfessor. The same act or omission which is faulty or negligent
causing damage produces civil liability arising from a crime under the Revised Penal
Code or create an action for quasi delict or culpa contractual under the Civil Code.
(Andamo vs IAC, 191 SCRA 203)
Illustrative Case: GSIS vs CA, 308 SCRA 559, 99
Facts: NFA National Food Authority owner of Chevrolet truck insured by GSISCMVLI. Victor Uy owner of Toyota Tamaraw used as PU insured by Mabuhay Ins
and Guarrantee CMVLI. On May 9, 1979 at Tabon-Tabon, Butuan City, the two
vehicles collided resulting to death and injuries to passengers of the Tamaraw and
total wreck of the Tamaraw. 3 cases were filed
(1) Civil Case No. 2196 for quasi-delict filed by UY vs NFA & GSIS recover
damage to property. Won
(2) Civil Case No. 2225 for culpa contractual filed by injured passenger Taer vs
Victor Uy and Mabuhay. Won.
(3) Civil Case No. 2256 for quasi-delict NFA and driver Corbeta, GSIS vs Victor
Uy for culpa contractual and Mabuhay.
(Note: no criminal action was filed although it may be done had any of the injured
parties minded to. The action against the Insurers GSIS and Mabuhay are based on the
insurance contract of CMVLI whereby passengers injured have the right to sue
directly the insurers)
3. Differences between Crimes and Culpa Aquiliana:

Crimes:
1. Crimes affected the public interest.
2. Penal law punishes/ corrects the criminal act.
3. Only acts covered by Penal Law are punished (Barredo vs Garcia, 73 Phil 607;
J. Bocobo, 1940 : Taxi c lied with Carretela)
4. Guilt proven beyond reasonable doubt.
5. Reservation to file separate civil action. No reservation, civil action is
impliedly instituted in the criminal action.
6. Employers liability is subsidiary.
Culpa Aquiliana:
1. Only private concern.
2. Repairs the damage by indemnification.
3. Covers all acts that are faulty or negligent.
4. Preponderance of evidence.
5. No reservation its independent from crime. (Andamo vs IAC, 191 SCRA
203)
6. Employers liability is solidary (Fabre Jr. vs CA, 259 SCRA 426, 96)
Culpa Contractual
(i)
Pre-existing obligation between the parties
(ii)
Fault or negligence is incidental to the performance of the obligation
(iii)
Defense of having exercised diligence of a good father of a family is not
available, just like in criminal action. Applied doctrine of Respondent
Superior, or Master and Servant Rule.
The result in the criminal case, whether acquittal, or conviction is irrelevant in the
independent civil action under the Civil Code (JBL Reyes: Dionisio vs Alyendia, 102
Phil 443, 57, cited in Mckee vs IAC, 211 SCRA 536, 92) unless acquittal is based on
the courts declaration that the fact from which the civil action arose did not exist,
hence the dismissal of criminal action carries with the extinction of the civil liability.
(Andamo vs IAC, 191 SCRA 204, 90 J. Fernan)

III. Doctrines/ Principles applied in Quasi-Delict or Tort cases availed of as defenses:

1. Negligence is the omission to do something which a reasonable man, guided
by those considerations which ordinarily regulate the conduct of human affairs,
would do, or the doing of something which a prudent and reasonable man
would not do.

The failure to observe for the protection of the interest of another person, that
degree of care, precaution, and vigilance which the circumstances justly
demand, whereby such person suffers injury. (Mckee vs IAC, 211 SCRA 517,
92, citing Black Law Dictionary and Judge Cooley: J. Davide Jr)
2. Emergency Rule one who suddenly finds himself in a place danger, and is
required to act without time to consider the best means that may be adopted to
avoid the impending danger, is not guilty of negligence, if he fails not to adopt
what subsequently and upon reflection may appear to be the better method,
unless the emergency in which he finds himself is brought about by his own
negligence.(Gan vs CA, 165 SCRA 378, 88, cited in McKee case)
Case: McKee vs IAC:
Facts: Two boys suddenly darted before McKees car forcing McKee to swerve
the car to avoid hitting the boys and in the process entered into the opposite lane and
collided with the oncoming cargo truck in the opposite lane.
Cases: to illustrate the exception expressed in unless the emergency in which he
finds himself is brought about by his own negligence.
Raynera vs Hicetas, 306 SCRA 102, 99
Facts: At 2:00 A.M., Reynera was driving his motorcycle fast and bump a cargo
truck he is tailing. Raynera died.
Held: The proximate cause of the accident was his negligence of Raynera who
was traveling behind the cargo truck. He had the responsibility of avoiding bumping
the vehicle in front of him and who has control of the situation. The cargo truck rear
was fully lighted.
Proximate cause is that cause which, in the natural and continuous sequence,
unbroken by any efficient intervening cause, produce the injury and without which the
result would have not occurred.
Austria vs CA, 327 SCRA 688, 2000
Facts: Austria driving her car very fast bumped a cargo truck improperly parked
along the road.
Held: Proximate cause of collision is Austrias driving recklessly such that he had
no chance to avoid the collision which was of her own making. She had the last clear
chance but failed to take steps to avoid hitting the cargo truck because she had no
opportunity to do so.

I.

Persons Liable for Quasi Delict: Culpa Aquiliana: Tort

Every person must, in the exercise with his rights and in the performance of his
duty, act with justice, give everyone his due, and observe honesty and good
faith (Art 19 NCC)
Every person who, contrary to law, willfully or negligently causes damages to
another, shall indemnify the latter for the same (Art 20 NCC) and any person
who willfully causes loss or injury to another in a manner that is contrary to
morals, good customs or public policy shall compensate the latter for the
damage (Art 21 NCC)
Wassmer vs Velez, 12 SCRA 648 Contrary to Good Customs
Facts: W and V set their wedding for Sept 4, 1954. Invitations were distributed
to relatives and friends. Wedding dresses purchased, reception contracted etc. 2
days before the wedding V left for home in Mindanao and never heard again.
Held: the mere breach of promise of marry is not an accionable wrong, but to
formally set a wedding and go thru rites in preparing and publishing incurring
expenses is palpably and unjustly contrary to good customs for which the
defendant is answerable in damages under Art. 21 NCC
Tortfeasor or Wrongdoer = Person acting with fault or negligence causing
damage to another is obliged to pay for the damages done (Art 2176 NCC)
Liability for ones act of fault or negligence

Case: Dr Carillo va People, 229 SCRA 386 94

Anesthesiologist was convicted for negligence for the death of a child who died
a day after operation for appendicitis. The physician did not make an intensive
preparation such as administration of antibiotics, gave and overdose of
anesthesia and arbritary administration of Nubian (pain killer) without
examination of patients weight which caused a heart attact.
Case: Batiquin vs CA, July 5, 96 - a surgeon left a piece of rubber in the
womans uterus in caesarian operation
Person Vicariously Liable for Acts of Others (Art 2180)

The basis of vicarious liability is responsibility of a person over other persons

under their legal authority, control or influence. Violation or remission of duty
arising from such relationship makes them liable for damages caused by other
person under their care or charge.
1. Parent father, if dead or incapacitated, mother are responsible for
damages caused by minor children living in their company (Art 2180
NCC)
2. Guardians are liable for damages caused by the minors or incapacitated
person who are under their authority and live in their company. (ibid)
Art 221. Family Code provides that parents and other persons exercising
parental authority shall be civilly liable for the injuries and damages caused by
the act or omission or their unemancipated children living in their company and
under parental authority subject to the appropriate defenses provided by law.
The Basis of the civil liability which is primary-direct and solidary imposed by
law is the necessary consequence of parental authority exercise over their
children. This authority imposed a duty upon parents to support them, keep
them company, educate and instruct them, and grand the right to correcting
punish with moderation. The parents are relieved of this liability only upon
proof that they have exercise the diligence of a good father of a family
(Exconde vs Capuno, 101 Phil 843) to prevent damage.
Case: Tamagro vs CA, 209 SCRA 519
Facts: a 10 year old boy shot and air gun a girl resulting to her death. The boy
was acquitted in the criminal suit for having acted without discernment.
However a civil suit was filed against the boys parent.
Held: The Anglo-American Tort Principle of parental liability is a specie of
Vicarious Liability, also known as Imputed Liability.
This liability is made natural as logical consequences of the duties and
responsibilities of parents exercising parental authority which includes
controlling, disciplining and instructing their children. In this jurisdiction the
parents liability is vested by law (NCC and FC) which assumes that when a
minor or unemancipated child living with their parent, commits a tortuous act,
the parents are presumed negligent in the performance of their duty to
supervice the children under their custody. A presumption which muris tantum,
not juris es de jure, rebuttable-overcome by proof having exercised and

observed all the diligence of a good father of a family (diligentissimi patris

familias).
Note in this case the boy was adopted but it was the natural parent who were
held liable as they the actual physical custody of the boy at the time of the
shooting. The adoption was approved only after the shooting although the
adoption proceeding was filed before the shooting and in between the time the
adaptor was abroad.
Case: Cuadra vs Monfort, 35 SCRA 160
Facts: Grade 6 pupil Maria C and Maria M were assigned by teacher to weed
the grass in the school premises. M found a plastic headband which she aloud
she found an earthworm and tossed it to C hitting the latter right eyes resulting
to loss of said eye.
Held: The underlying basis of the liability imposed by Art 2176 is the fault or
negligence accompanying the act or omission there being no willfulness or
intent to cause damage thereby and in Art 2180 providing vicarious liability of
parent although primarily.
It was not shown that the parent could have prevented the damage as their child
was in school and they have the right to expect their child to be under the care
and supervision of the teacher. Beside the act was an innocent prank and
unusual among children at play and which no parent could have any special
reason to anticipate much less guard against. Parent not held liable.
Where the minor or insane person causing damage to others has no parent or
guardian/ the minor or insane persons property shall answer the damage
caused. (Art 2182)
3. Teachers or Heads of school of arts and trade (non-academic) are liable
for damages caused by their pupils and students or apprentices remaining
under custody (Art 2180 NCC)
Cases: Exconda vs Capuno, 201 Phil 843
Facts: 15 year old elementary student after attending Rizal Day Parade boarded
a jeep on the way home. He took over the wheel and driving recklessly caused
the vehicle to turn over resulting to death of two passengers.

Held: Upon being found guilty of double homicide with reckless imprudence
filed against him, a separate civil action was filed whereby the father was hold
solidarily liable for damages under Art 1903 nor Art 2180 NCC. The school
head was held no liable being academic school.
Mercando vs CA, 108 Phil 414, 1960
Facts: A student of Lourdes Catholic School in QC during recess cut a
classmate with razor blade. Parent of the injured student sued the culprit for
damages.
Held: Reiterated Exconda case school not liable as it was not an
establishment of arts and trade (aside from the fact that it was not sued). Parent
was held to be liable.
Palisoc vs Brillantes. 41 SCRA 548, 1971
Facts: A 16 year old student of Manila Technical Institute was killed in a fist
fight by a person who was not boarding in the school and of majority age.
Held: The school is being non-academic (arts and trade), the head of the school
and teacher in charge were solidarily liable with the assailant.
Amadora vs CA 160 SCRA 315, 1988 J. Cruz
Facts: It was summer of 1972 Alfredo Amadora about to graduate at the
Colegio de San Jose-Recoletes was shot to death by his classmate Pablito
Daffon. Alfredo went to the school to submit his Report in Physic.
Held: Art 2180 NCC applies to all schools, academic or non-academic.
Teachers are liable for acts of their student except where the school is technical
in nature (arts and trade establishment) in which case the head thereof shall be
answerable.
There is really no substantial difference distinction between the academic and
non-academic schools in so far as torts committed by their students are
concerned. The same vigilance is expected from the teacher over the student
under their control and supervision, whatever the nature of the school where he
is teaching. x x x x The distinction no longer obtains at present. x x x
The student is in the custody of the school authorities as long as he is under the
control and influence of the school and within its premises, whether the

semester has not ended, or has ended or has not yet begun. The term custody
signifies that the student is within the control and influence of the school
authorities. The teacher in charge is the one designated by the dean, principal,
or other administrative superior to exercise supervision over the pupils or
students in the specific classes or sections to which they are assigned. It is not
necessary that at the time of the injury, the teacher is physically present and in a
position to prevent it.
Thus, for injuries caused by the student, the teacher and not the parent shall be
held responsible if the tort was committed within the premises of the school at
any time when its authority could be validly exercised over him.
In any event, the school may be held to answer for the acts of its teacher or the
head thereof under the general principle of respondent superior, but it may
exculpate itself from liability by proof that it had exercised the diligence of a
bonus paterfamilias. Such defense they had taken necessary precautions to
prevent the injury complained of and thus be exonerated from liability imposed
by Art 2180.
Basis of teachers vicarious liability is, as such, they acting in Loco Parentis (in
place of parents). However teachers are not expected to have the same measure
of responsibility as that imposed on parent for their influence over the child is
not equal in degree. x x x The parent can instill more lasting discipline more
lasting disciple on the child than the teacher and so should be held to a greater
accountability than the teacher or the head for the tort committed by the child.
As the teacher was not shown to have been negligent nor the school remised in
the discharged of their duties, they were exonerated of liability.
(Note the court view on increasing students activism likely causing violence
resulting to injuries, in or out of the school premises J. Guttierez, Jr
concurringly said many student x x x view some teachers as part of the
bourgeois and or reactionary group whose advice on behavior deportment and
other non-academic matters is not only resented but actively rejected. It seems
most unfair to hold teacher liable on a presumption juris tantum of negligence
for acts of students even under circumstances where strictly speaking there
could be no in loco parentis relationship.
The provision of Art 2180 NCC involved in this case has outlived its purpose.
The court cannot make law, it can only apply the law with its imperfections.
However the court can suggest that such a law should be amended or repealed.

4. The state is responsible when it acts thru a special agent but not when the
damage has been caused by the official to whom the task is done properly
pertains (i.e. function or duty) in which case Art 2176 is applied.

As a general rule, the state cannot be sued without its consent. (principle of
immunity from suit) This consent is manifested in legislative acts
enactment of laws making the state suable as in this specific provision of the
Civil Code, in RA 7160 LGC of 1991 providing that LGU and their officials
are not exempt from liability for death or injury to person or damage to
property (Sec 24).
The state the state may not be sued without its consent. (Sec 3 Art XVI 87
Constitution) This is the doctrine of immunity from suit or principle of non
liability (enuciated in the 1910 case of Forbes vs Chuco Tiaco & Crossfield, 16
Phil 534) was originally founded upon an old maxim that The King can do no
wrong prevailing during the medieval England when the King was generally
accepted as the State himself. With the development of democratic thoughts
and institution, the concept eventually lost is moral force, the natural personking is no longer the state but merely its representative who may be removed
by the people. i.e. thru impeachment. The modern basis of the principle is that
immunity from suit is inherent in all sovereign states. The reason is based on
the logical and practical ground that there can be no legal right as against the
authority that makes the law on which the right depends. (Kawananakoa vs
Plyblank, 206 US 349 cited by Hector S. Deleon, 2002 Ed Textbook on the Phil
Const)
The state (Govt) may be sued only with its consent which may be given
i. expressly thru duly enacted statutes such as the ff:
a. CA NO. 327 amended by PD 14445 providing conditions under
which the state may be sued
b. Administrative Code of 1987
c. Civil Code Art 2180 state acting thru special agent
d. Charters of public corp vesting them with power to sue and be sued,
eg. RA 7610 LGC
ii. Impliedly as in the ff cases:
a. When the Govt sues to recover money from individual who has
claim against it, the latter may set a counterclaim.
b. When the Govt engages in commercial business or enters into a
contract, it can be sued upon the theory that it has descended to the

level of private individual from which it can be implied that its has
given its consent to be sued under the contract and thereby divested
itself of its sovereign character and its immunity from suits. (National
Airport Corp vs Teodoro, 91 Phil 203, Manila Hotel Employees
Assn. Vs Manila Hotel, 73 Phil 347)
The term State used in Art 2180 NCC refers to the Govt of the Republic of the
Philippines defined in Sec 2, 1987 Revised Administrative Code as the
Corporate Governmental entity thru which the functions of the govts are
exercised throughout the Phils, which included the various arms thru which
political authority is made effective in the Phils such as the autonomous regions
and the local govt units (province, city, municipality and barangay). The term
does not include agency or instrumentality or other entity which their enabling
laws have invested with juridical personality separate and distinct from that of
the Republic of the Philippines (Fontanilla vs Maliaman, 194 SCRA 495 J.
Paras)
The functions of govt is classified into (a) governmental or constituent
involving exercise of sovereignty and is compulsory, (b) proprietary or
ministrant which is optional (Fontanilla vs Maliaman)
The state for the governmental function the state can not be sued without its
consent. For the proprietary function of the govt may be sued without its
consent which is presumed have been given in advance.
The state may be sued only thru its Special Agent but not when the damage had
been caused by the official to whom properly it pertained to do the act
performed (Merritt Fontanilla case, 194 SCRA 503)
Special Agents are of two kinds
a. Public officials with a particular assigned tasks but is specially
commissioned to do such task foreign to his usual assigned governmental
function.
b. Private person not a public official, commissioned to perform nongovernmental function. A govt commissioning a private person for a special
task is acting thru special agent within the meaning of Art 2180 NCC
The state assumes the role of an ordinary employer and will be held liable for
the special agents torts (Fontanilla vs Malianan, 89)

Facts: Hugo Garcia is a regular employee of National Irrigation Administration

(NIA) a govt agency created by its charter RA 3601 amended by PD 552 for
the purpose of undertaking integrated irrigation project. Garcia driving the
agency official pick-up bumped a bicycle ridden by Fontanilla resulting to his
death. The victims parent filed a civil action against NIA and its driver Garcia
who was found guilty of driving recklessly. NIA was ordered to pay, NIA
appealed raising the issue that as govt agency performing govt function is not
liable as being a part of the state, cannot be sued.
Held: the state or govt agency performing governmental function may be held
liable for tort committed by its employees when it acts thru a special agent.
While NIA is a govt agency performing governmental function, however it is
suable because its charter provides that it may be sue or be sued, thus consent
of the state for NIA to be sued has already given, so that the rule on immunity
from suit normally extended to govt agencies performing governmental
functions is no longer available to NIA. By waiving that immunity from suit in
its charter, NIA open itself to suits.
Thus NIA was held responsible for the negligent act of its employee Garcia
who is not a special agent. (J. Padilla separate opinion in Fontanilla vs
Maliaman Resolution in 1991, 194 SCRA 499)
Palafox vs Ilocos Norte Prov, 102 Phil 1186
Facts: Provinces truck on its was to the river for gravel and sands to be used in
the construction and repair of its road (a governmental function) runs over a
pedestrian resulting to the latters death.
Held: The province was not liable because its employee driver at the time of the
accident was performing his regular duties and is not a special agent.
Rosete vs The Auditor General, 81 Phil 453
Facts: A fire broke out in the Emergency Control Administration (a govt office)
due to the negligence of its employee in igniting recklessly his cigarette lighter
near a drum of gasoline in the offices warehouse resulting to destruction of
buildings adjoining the warehouse. Victims sued the officers of the Emergency
Control Admin.

Held: As ECA or its officers were shown to have acted not as special agent of
the govt in storing gasoline in the warehouse, the Govt is not responsible for
the damages caused thru such negligence.
Republic vs Palacio, 23 SCRA 899
Facts: The Irrigation Service Unit, an office/agency under the Dept of Public
Works and Communication was sued for tort and the Sheriff of Manila
garnished the deposit of the ISU in the PNB, Manila.
Held: The ISU being an office in the govt and its fund is a public fund. It is
being shown that the ISU was guilty of tort, however the sate not its fund is not
liable because the ISU was not a special agent. Under Art 2180 the state is
liable only for tort caused by its special agent.
GAA vs CA, 167 SCRA 28, 88
Facts: GAA charges fees for the use of the Airports terrace or viewing deck
where one gets a better view of arriving and departing passengers at the airport.
The deck had an elevated portion (4 inches) which caused a viewer to fall
breaking his thigh bone. He sued CAA for hospital expenses. CAA raised the
defense of being a govt agency subject of immunity from suit.
Held: While CAA is a govt agency however it is performing a proprietary
functions business and under its charter it is empowered to sue and be sued.
Thus it cannot avail the immunity from suit accorded to govt agencies
performing strictly governmental function. (Malong vs PNR, 138 SCRA 63
which ruled that PNR is not immune from suit as it does not exercise
sovereignty but purely proprietary business function)
NIA vs IAC, 214 SCRA 35, 92
Held: Damages caused by the officials of NIA for its negligence in the
construction of the canal which caused damages to nearby land, NIA is liable
under Art 2176 NCC as NIAs official are not special agent in performing their
official assigned duties and functions.
LGU are liable for damages for the death or injuries suffered by any person by
reason of defective conditions of roads, streets, bridges, public building and
other public works under their control or supervision. (Art 2189)

LGUs and their official are not exempt from liability for death or injury to
persons or damage to property. (Sec 24, RA 7160 LGC of 1991)
Municipality of San Fernando, La Union vas Firme, 195 SCRA 692, 91
Facts: Municipals dump truck on way to the Naguilian River to get gravel and
sands for the repair of roads (a governmental function) collided with a
passenger jeep resulting the death of passenger of the latter vehicle. Civil action
was filed against the Municipality.
Held: Municipalities being agencies of the State, when performing
governmental functions enjoy sovereignty and thus immune from suit unless it
is shown that they are performing proprietary function.
However, they may be held liable if it can be shown acting thru a special agent.
The Municipalitys driver is not a special agent and so the Municipal is not
liable, only the driver.
Palma vs Graciano, 99 Phil 92
Facts: A governor and a Mayor filed a criminal charge which was dismissed for
being groundless. They were sued
Held: The prosecution of a crime is a governmental function, not a corporation
action. In the discharged thereof, the Province or City or Municipality is not
liable for tortuous acts of its officers. Only the public officers acting tortuously
(beyond the scope of their authority) are personally liable because the mantle of
immunity from suit accorded to their office is not available for their tortuous
acts.
Republic vs Sandoval, 20 SCRA 124, 1993
Facts: Jan 22, 1987 known as Black Saturday the Mendiola Massacre of
Rallyist who were shot as they march toward Malacaang. Heirs of the dead
rallyist sued the Republic and Military Officers and soldiers. Judge Sandoval
dismiss their suit invoking States immunity from suit.
Held: Instances when the suit against the state
a. when the Republic is sued by name
b. when the suit is against an unincorporated govt agency

c. when the suit is against a govt officer but the ultimate liability will fall on
the state and not on the officer
d. when the govt perpetrated injustice on the citizen (De los Santos vs IAC,
223 SCRA 11)
In this case, the state is not liable for the civil liability arising from criminal
acts of the military for violating BP Blg 880 which prohibits unnecessary firing
in dispensing public assembly. The doctrine of immunity from suit will not be
applied to the military officers who have acted beyond the scope of their
authority because in so doing they are deemed to ceased to be a public officers
but a private person liable like any other private persons for doing wrongful
acts.
De los Santos vs IAC, 223 SCRA 11, 93
Facts: Min of Public works while carrying on its project of constructing roads
and creeks took over the portion of privately owned land without or against the
consent of the owner who sued. Immunity from suit was invoked.
Held: when a govt thru its agency takes away private property without going to
legal process of expropriation and paying just compensation, a suit may be
properly maintained against the govt. The civil action may be based under Art
32 NCC and the constitutional provisions on rights against privation of
property without due process of law and without just compensation.
The doctrine of immunity from suit cannot serve as an instrument for the
perpetration of injustice on its citizens. (J. Romero)
Resume on States liability for tort
The state is liable fro the tortuous acts only of its special agent but not of its
public officials in the performance of their assigned usual duties and functions
who are liable under Art 2176 NCC and not Art 2180 NCC
Rationale: there can be no legal rights as against the authority that grants such
rights. This is known as doctrine of immunity from suit which is very essence
of sovereignty. It is expressed in the constitution that the state cannot be sued
without its consent (Sec 3, Art XVI). The states consent is manifested
expressly in the form its legislative enactments of statues (Art 2180 NCC, Sec
24 LGC of 1991, Act No 3083 relating money claims arising from contract)
and impliedly when the state enters into contract in its proprietary or private

capacity, or when the sate itself sues, opens itself to counterclaim, or perpetrate
injustice to its citizen.
5. Employers: Master
a. Owner and Manager of establishment or enterprises are liable for
damage caused by their employees in the service of employment or
on the occasion of their functions.
b. Employer of household helper though not engaged in any business or
industry are liable for damages caused by helper acting within the
scope of their assigned tasks.
Basis of Liability is not Respondent Superior (Anglo-American doctrine
where the negligence of the employee is conclusively presumed to be the
negligence of the employer) but on the relationship of Pater-Familias, (masterservant) a theory basing the liability of the master ultimately on his own
negligence and not that of the servant as manifested in his negligence in the
selection of their employee-servant (culpa eligiendo) or in the supervision over
their employee-servants (culpa in vigilando). This negligence is prima facie
presumption juris tantum- overcome or rebutted by proof that they have
observed and exercised all the diligence of a good father of a family
(diligantissimi bonus fater familias). The theory is deduced from the last par of
Art 2180 NCC providing the responsibility shall cease upon proof of exercise
of the diligence of a good father of a family to prevent the damage.
The term Manager in Art 2180 is used in the sense of employer, not
employee.
Case: Phil Rabbit Bus Lines Inc vs Phil Am Forwarder, Mar 25, 1975
Facts: An action for damages was brought against Phil Am Forwarded and its
Manager Balingit for negligent act of their driver. Balingit moved to dismiss
the action against him for though he was manager, however, he was just an
employee of the company.
Held: Balingit is not liable because he was just a mere employee though
designated as Manager.
The relationship of employer-employee or master-servant must first be
established to exist before the employer/master will be held liable.
Case: Phil Shell Petroleum Co vs CA, 221 SCRA 389

Facts: Gas station proprietor was sued for selling adulterated gas with water.
He settled amicably the suit and then Phil Shell for the negligence of Feliciano
who was hired in undertaking hydro pressure test in the underground storage
tank which was cracked causing water to seep into the tank.
Held: Phil Shell is not liable because Feliciano was not its employee. It was
shown that Phil Shell has no control over Feliciano who do business of his
own, used his own tools and worked on his own time charging a fixed lump
sum for every piece of work. Feliciano was an independent contractor and not
an employee and thus he alone is liable.
Case: Cuison vs Norton & Harisson Co, 55 Phil 18
Facts: Ora was employed by defendant company charged in directing and
controlling transport business of the Co. On the day of the accident, one of the
companys truck was leaded with logs which were not properly tied. The ties
were loosened during the trip. They stopped to rearrange the ties but before
they could do so a child passing beside the truck was hit by a log falling from
the truck.
Held: Ora beingan employee of the company, the latter is responsible for the
negligence in the loading of logs which caused the death of the boy.
Distinction of employers liability under Art 2180 NCC and Revised Penal
Code.
Civil Code
1. Direct and primary solidary, employer is sue even without suing the
employee
2. Defense of exercise of diligence of a good father of the family to be relieve
of liability
3. Employer is liable even if not engaged in business
4. Proof of negligence is by mere preponderance of evidence
Revised Penal Code
1. Subsidiary arising after the employees guilt
2. Diligence of a good father is not a defense
3. Must prove employer is engaged in business
4. Proof beyond reasonable doubt of evidence

5. Owners of Motor vehicle (Art 2184)

a. Owner is in the motor vehicle is solidary liable with his driver
b. Owner is not in the motor vehicle with the driver is subsidiary liable
Case: Chapman vs Underwood, 27 Phil 374
Facts: Underwood riding in his car and his driver suddenly turned to the wrong
side of the street and hit the plaintiff. Driver was negligent. Was the owner
liable too?
Held: Where the owner had reasonable opportunity to observe his driver and to
direct the latter to cease there from, becomes himself responsible for such acts.
On the other hand, if the driver, by sudden act of negligence and without
opportunity to prevent the acts or its continuance, the owner is not responsible.
Caedo vs Tu Khe Thai, 26 SCRA 419
Facts: Yu was riding in his Cadillac driven by Bernardo saw a carratela about 8
meters away. Instead of slowing down veered to the left to overtake and in so
doing the car hit the carratellas left wheel and skidded obliquely hitting the on
coming car of Caedo who despite slackened speed to avoid the collision was hit
resulting to the injuries of Caedo and his passengers. Yus driver was negligent.
Was Yu liable?
Held: The basis of the master/employers liability in civil law is not respondent
superior but rather the relationship of Pater Familias. The theory is that
ultimately the negligence of the servant, if known to the master and susceptible
of timely correction, reflects the masters negligence if he fails to correct it in
order to prevent the injury or damage (J. Makalintal)
The owner of the car Yu was not liable because he did not see the carretela at a
distance, however, he could not anticipated his drivers sudden decision to pass
the carretela. The time element was such that there was not reasonable
opportunity for Yu to assess the danger involved and warn the driver
accordingly.
Former owner of Motor Vehicle are liable for the tortuous acts of the new
owner
Case: Equitable Leasing Corp vs Suyom, Sept 5, 2002

Facts: Equitable sold to Lim a Fuso tractor. After the sales price was fully
paid, a deed of sale executed by Equitable in favor of Lim who had not
registered the sale with the LTO. While the tractor was driven by Lims
employee, it rammed into a house causing death and injuries and damages.
Held: This court (SC) has consistently held that regardless of the sales made of
motor vehicle, the registered owner is the lawful operator insofar as the public
and third persons are concerned. Consequently it is directly and primary liable
for the consequences of its operation in contemplation of the law. The owner of
record is the employer of the driver while the actual owner is considered as
merely its agent.
Since Equitable remained the registered owner, it could not escape primary
liability.
Torts and damages
Intro: Concepts and Definition
The law governing damages is found in Art 2195 to 2235, NCC, which reincorporated some of
the Spanish Civil Code and adopted some principles of the American law (Civil code commission report)
Damages (Latin Damnum or Demo = to take away) refers to the harm done and what may be
recovered.
Injury refers to the wrongful or unlawful or tortuous act. Damages is the measure of recovery
while injury is the legal wrong to be redressed.
There may be damage without injury (damnum absque injuria) and an injury without damages.
(15 Am Jur 388)
Cases (i) De la Rama Steamship vs Tan, 99 Phil 1034 Govt agency terminated contract of agency under
its right stipulated in the contract, although the agent suffered damages.
(ii) Janda vs Lepanto, 99 Phil 197, 1956 in compliance with the law (RA 529) purchaser of shares of
stock pain in pesos despite agreement to pay in dollar because at the time the law declared stipulation as
void to pay in currency other than pesos.
(iii) Saba vs CA, 189 SCRA 50 restated the doctrine of Qui Jure Suo Utitur Nullum Damnum = one who
exercise his right does no injury and if damage result, it is damnum absque injuria. The case made the
distinction between damage and injury.
Injury of loss arises from the violation if legal right while damages refer to money or pecuniary
compensation which the law impose or awarded for the injury done.
The Civil codes provisions on damages are applicable to all obligations arising from (1) Law, (2)
Contracts, (3) Quasi Contracts, (4) Delicts crimes, and (5) Quasi-delicts = tort. (Art 2195 NCC)

Compensation for workmen and other employees are governed by special law and rules
governing damages laid down in other laws shall be observed insofar as are not in conflict with the Civil
Code. (Art 2196 NCC) This makes the Civil Codes provisions on damages as the general law.
Case: Ysmael Maritime Corp vs Avelino, 151 SCRA 333
Held:
The heirs of the deceased seaman have the choice of availing remedy to recover damages, workmens
compensation law-labor code for work connected injury, or for tort under the Civil Code for negligence of
the employer. However, once they pursue one, they are no longer free to avail the other. (Cited
Florensca vs Phil Ex, 136 SCRA 141 case of miners who died in a cave-in.
B. Kinds of Damages
There are 6 kinds of damages, namely
1. Actual or compensatory
2. Moral
3. Nominal
4. Temperate or moderate
5. Liquidated
6. Exemplary or corrective
General Classification of damages

1. Damages capable of pecuniary computation estimable which must be duly established or

proven as in actual or compensatory damages and loss of property lost of earning capacity.

2. Damages incapable of pecuniary estimation for which no proof is needed and the assessment is
left to discretion of the court. (Art 2216)

Damages:
For the same faulty or negligent act or omission causing damages it may produce multiple
liabilities, namely (1) criminal liability and (2) civil liability which in turn may be (a) a Civil Liability arising
from a crime under the Revised Penal Code, or (b) Civil liability arising from culpa extra-contractual or
quasi delict or culpa aquiliana under the Civil Code and (c) civil liability arising from culpa contractual or
breach of contract.
The liability arising from culpa aquiliana is entirely separate and distinct the civil liability arising
from a crime. However the plaintiff cannot recover damages twice for the same act or omission. (Art
2177 NCC)
The acquittal or conviction in the criminal case is entirely irrelevant in the civil case, unless the
acquittal is declared that the fact from which the civil action arose did not exist which extinguished the
criminal liability and the civil liability. (Andamo vs IAC, 191 SCRA 204) The aggrieved party has the option
to choose which of the actions that may be filed because double recovery or damages is prohibited.
(Virata vs Ochoa, 81 SCRA 472).

Exemplary or corrective damages

These are damages imposed by way of example or correction for the public good, in addition to
the moral, temperate, liquidated or compensatory damages (Art 2229 NCC).
This damages cannot be recovered as a matter of right. This court will decide whether or not
they should be adjudicated, (Art 2233) and any stipulation renouncing in advance such damages shall be
null and void. (Art 2234 NCC).
Condition for the award (Art 2234 NCC)
Plaintiff must prove that he is entitled to the following:
A. Compensatory Damages
B. Moral Damages
C. Temperate Damages
D. Defendant acted with fraudulent, malevolent, oppressive, reckless or wanton manner in contracts or
quasi contract case. (Art 2232 NCC)
E. Presence of aggravating circumstance in the commission of criminal offense - as a part of civil liability.
(Art. 2230 NCC).
F. Defendant acted with gross negligence in quasi-delicts.
Case: German Marine Agencies Inc. Vs NLRC, 350 SCRA 641
Facts:
The ship radio officer was taken ill while the ship was in New Zealand, Despite notice thereof by the
ship's captain, the ship proceeded with the voyage and reached the Phil in 10 days and yet the sick radio
officer was not immediately taken to hospital for medical treatment.
Held:
Ship owner is liable for moral damages for the physical suffering and mental anguish caused to Radio
Officer. P50,000 in moral damages is proper.
As the fact of negligence of the ship's captain was not only shown to have existed but it was deliberately
perpetrated by the arbitrary refusal to commit the ailing radio officer to a hospital in New Zealand or at
the nearest port resulting to his permanent partial disability, the award of exemplary damages for
P50,000 is adequate and reasonable.
In this case the awarding of the exemplary damages is to serve a correction as well as an example for
ship owners to look after the welfare of their employees first to that of their customers-cargo-owner.

The rationale behind the exemplary damages is to provide an example or correction for public good and
not to enrich the victim. (People vs Agustin, 350 SCRA 216, '01)
Atty's fees may be recovered when exemplary damages are awarded. (Coca cola bottlers Phil vs Roque,
305 SCRA 215)
Case: PCIB vs CA, 350 SCRA 446, '01 = Ford's case
Held:
Banks are liable for tortuous act of its officers an employee within the course or scope of thei
employment.

In this case, both the drawee and collection banks were negligent in failing to select and supervise their
employees resulting to the encashment of the check to the syndicate instead of the rightful person.
Nominal Damages (Art 2221 NCC)
These are adjudicated in order that a right of the plaintiff which has been violated or invaded by
the defendant, may be vindicated or recognized, and not for the purpose of indemnifying the plaintiffs for
any loss suffered by him.
Nominal Damages are merely for the vindication of a right that has been violated, not for
indemnification of the losses suffered. (ventanilla vs Centeno, Jan 28, 61). Case of a lawyer who was
negligent in filing appeal time tho he was not liable for actual damages.
Case: Almeda vs Carino, Jan 13, 2003
Facts:
C sold a lot on installments to A. A last sold the same to another, and despite of demands, A refused to
pay the unpaid balance of the purchase price owing to C.
Held:
The vendor C has the right to the unpaid balance to the lot sold to A who violated such right when he
refused to pay. For this, C is entitled, aside from the payment of the unpaid balance, to a nominal
damages.
Nominal Damages may be awarded to a plaintiff whose right has been violated or invaded by the
defendant for the purpose of vindicating or recognizing that right and not for indemnifying the plaintiff for
the loss suffered. Its award is thus not for the purpose of indemnification for a loss but for the
recognition and vindication of a right. When granted by the courts, they are treated not as an equivalent
of a wrong inflicted but simply a recognition of the existence of a technical injury. A violation of the
plaintiff's right, even if only technical, is sufficient to support an award of nominal damages. So long as
there s a showing of a violation of a right of the plaintiff, an award of nominal damages is proper.
Temperate or Moderate Damages (Art. 2224 NCC)
These are damages which are more than nominal but less compensatory damage which may be
recovered when the court finds that some pecuniary loss has been suffered but the amount can not, from
the nature of the case, be proved with certainty.
Case: Phil Telegraph and Telephone Corp vs CA, Sept. 3 2002.
Facts:
PT&T breached its contract in failing to remit money order sent by plaintiff on time. However the latter
failed to prove actual damages and that PT&T was in bad faith.
Held:
Either Temperate or nominal damages could be awarded.
Case: Araneta vs Bank of America, 40 SCRA 144
Facts:

A issued checks in payment of jewels purchased. The checks were dishonored despite of the sufficiency
of fund to cover the checks. The bank apologized for the errors of its employee. Again, similar incidents
subsequently occurred. Thus a sued the bank.
Held:
While A may not be able to prove the profit he would have net had the jewelry transaction been pushed
thru, his claim for temperate damages is justified.
B. Kinds of damages: General classification
2. Damages incapable of pecuniary estimation. While proofs is not needed, however, it is essential that
the complainant must satisfactorily show the existence of the factual basis of the damage (Art 2217) and
its casual connection to the defendants wrongful acts. (Malonzo vs Galang, 100 Phil 16; Raagas vs Traja,
22 SCRA 836) These damages, nominal damages, temperate damages and exemplary or corrective
damages.
The principles of the general law on damages are adopted insofar as they are not inconsistent
with the Civil Code (Art 2198).
The fundamental principle of law of damages
is that one injured by a breach of contract or by the negligent act or omission shall have fair and just
compensation commensurate with the loss sustained in the consequence of the defendant's act which
give to the action. Thus actual pecuniary compensation is the indemnity for his loss and to be placed as
near as may be in condition which he would have occupied had he not suffered the injury complained of.
On the other hand, the defendant shall not be liable for damages more than the actual loss which he has
inflicted by his wrong.
Only proximate, not remote, damages are recoverable.
While the same faulty or negligent act or omission may give rise to multiplicity of suits, however
under Art 2177, NCC, the plaintiff cannot recover damages twice for the same act or omission, If the
plaintiff recovers from the defendant under the civil code, he cannot recover damage from the same
defendant under Revised Penal Code on the premise that person criminally liable is also civilly liable.
Case: Batangas Laguna Tayabas Bus Co vs CA, 64 SCRA 427
Facts:
Bus collided with a car driven by Reyes resulting to death of Reyes and injuries to his passengers
Cardena. Cardena and heirs of Elizondo sued the Bus operator whose driver was found negligent.
The defendant bus operator contended that it was premature to proceed with the civil case pending final
resolution of the criminal case against their driver.
Held:
Employer's liability is made clear under Art 2180 and under Art 2177 is entirely separate and distinct from
the civil liability arising from negligence under Revised Penal Code. But the plaintiff cannot recover
damages twice for the same act or omission
Culpa aquiliana is an independent source of obligation between two persons not formerly bound
by any juridical tie. (Manressa)

It is not required that the injured party should not seek out a third person crimirnally liable
whose prosecution must be a condition precedent to the enforcement of the civil right. (Rakes vs AGP Co,
7 Phil 359) The civil liability under quasi delict is contracted without agreement or consent, thus culpa
extra contractual, on the principle that where harm, loss or damage has been caused to a person thru
fault or negligent act the aggrieve party is entitled to be indemnified. (Cangco vs MRR, 38 Phil 768)
MORAL DAMAGES
4. Cases where Moral Damages may be recovered or Awarded
a. Acts mentioned in Art 309 - disrespect to the dead or wrongful interference with funeral
b. Arts and actions referred in Articles on human relation - 21, 26, to 30, 32 to 35
c. Willful injury to property committed maliciously or fraudulently (Art 2220, Francisco vs GSIS, Mar 30,
'63)
d. Breaches of contracts where the defendant acted with fraudulently or in bad faith. (Art 2220)
Breaches of contract of carriage resulting to death or injury of passengers (Art 1764 in relation to
Art 2206 (3) Phil Rabbit bus lines inc vs Easguerra, 117 SCRA 741)
Case: Calalas vs CA, 332 SCRA 356, 2000
Facts:
Calalas' jeep was improperly parked with its rear portion protruding from the board shoulder of the road
(violation of LTTC). Passenger Sunga who was sited on wooden stool as extended seat alighted to give
way to another passenger alighting from the inside and in the process he was bumped by an overtaking
truck owned by Salinas.
Sunga sued Calalas - breach of carriage
Calalas sued Salvas - Tort
Held:
While moral damages are not recoverable in actions for breach of contract for it is not one of the items
enumerated in Art 2219, NCC, however, the exception is in the cases of mishap resulting to the death or
injury of passenger unddder Art 1764 in relation to Art 2206 (3) NCC and in cases in which the carrier is
guilty of fraud or in bad faith.
In this case the ruling in Calamas vs Salvas is not binding in the case of Sunga vs Calalas. Res Judicata
does not apply because Sunga is not a party to the tort case where Salva was found at fault and liable to
Calalas. Thought both cases has the same issue of negligence, however, each is distinct and separate
from the other. (Breach of contract and tort)
Defense of proximate cause is not available in breach of contract of carriage: only in tort cases. Neither is
the defense of caso fortuitous where it is attended to by negligence which in Calalas case were
overloading and parking improrely which are vioation of tle LTTC.
Moral damages cannot be award in the absence of any injury or factual basis. There must be
pleading and proof of moral suffering, mental anguish, fright, wounded feelings ad similar injury. (Brent
Hospital Inc vs NLRC, 292 SCRA 304, '98; People vs Aguilar, 349 SCRA 292, '98)
MORAL DAMAGES, Arts 2217 to 2220, NCC

1. Moral damages are not intended to enrich a complainant at the expense of the defendant. They are
awarded only to enable the injured party to obtain means, diversion or amusements that will serve to
alleviate the moral suffering he has undergone by reason of the defendant's culpable action. (J. Paraz,
Prudencio vs Alliance Transport, Mar 16 '87)
2. Concept - Moral damages include physical suffering, mental anguish, freight, serious anxiety,
dismirched reputation, wounded feelings, moral shock, social humiliation, and similar injury.
Thought incapable of pecuniary computation, it may recover if they are the proximate result of
the defendant's wrongful act or omission. (2217)
Moral damages are not punitive in nature, but are designed to compensate and alleviate in some
way the physical suffering, mental anguish, fright, serious anxiety, etc. This is so because moral damages
are in the category of an award designed to compensate the claimant for actual injury suffered, not to
impose a penalty in the wrongdoer. (Equitable Leasing Corp vs Suyom et al, Sept 5, '02)
Corporation are not entitled to moral damages because an artificial person existing only in legal
contemplation-legal fiction, have no feelings no emotions, no senses and therefore, it cannot experience
physical suffering and mental anguish, sorrows and grief of life- all of which can not be suffered by
artificial person. (National Power Corp vs Phil Brothers Oceanio, Inc, Nov 21, 2001)
3. Conditions to recover moral damages while no proof of pecuniary loss is necessary in order to
recover and the assessment is left to the discretion of the court (Art 2216 NCC). However, the
complainant must satisfactory show the ff:

a. factual basis for the award which is the injury or wrong doing of the defendant
b. the injury, i.e. physical suffering etc are the proximate result of the defendants wrongful act or
omission (2217)

c. casual connection or relation between the actual injury and the wrongful act or omission of the
defendant. (Equitable Leasing Corp vs Suyom)

4. Cases where moral damages may be recovered or awarded (2219)

a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.

Criminal offenses resulting to physical injuries (Art 33 NCC and Madeja Caro, 126 SCRA 293)
Quasi-delict causing physical injuries
Adultery and concubinage
Abduction, Rape, Seduction and other malicious act, victim and parent are entitled
Illegal search
Illegal arbitrary detention or arrest
Libel, slander or other form of defamation (Art 33)
Malicious prosecution

Torts and Damages

Obligations and liabilities arising from human relation
The civil codes provisions dealing on human relation (Chap 2 Preliminary
Title) are now, not based in the Spanish Civil Code, formulated some basic principles

that are to be observed for the rightful relationship between human beings and for the
stability of social order. It was designed to indicate certain norms that spring from the
fountain of good and conscience. (Report, Code Commission, p. 39)
These provisions provide for specie of Special Torts
A. The catch all provisions

1. Abuse of rights every person must, in the exercise of his rights and in the
performance of his duties, act with justice, give everyone his due, and observe honesty
and good faith. (Art 19) The elements are the ff:
i. There must be a legal right or duty
ii. Exercise of such right or duty in bad faith
iii. Prejudices or causes damage to another
2. Sanction Penalty every person who, contrary to law, willfully or negligently
causes damages to another, shall indemnify the latter for the same (Art 20)
This reiterated in Art 2176 and 2194 dealing on quasi delicts holding that person are
liable for damages caused by their fault or negligence. (Prof. Jarencio opined that this
provision refers to willful or negligent acts contrary to law not constituting quasi
delict or delict)
3. Contra Bonus Mores- any person who willfully causes losses or injury to another in
a manner that is contrary to morals, good customs or public policy shall compensate
the latter for damage (Art 21)
Case: Quisimbing vs Icao, 34 SCRA 132
Held: under Art 21, for a married man to force a woman not his wife to yield to his
lust constitutes a clear violation of the rights of his victim that entitles her to claim for
compensation for the damage caused. Mans act is contrary to moral, good customs or
public policy.
Case: Pe et al vs Pe, 5 SCRA 200
Defendant is married separated and correlative of the plaintiff unmarried woman, 24
years of age. Defendant frequently visited the girls house on the pretext of teaching
her how to pray the rosary. They fell in love and had clandestine trust until they
disappeared.
Held: No conclusion can be drawn from the fact that defendant, not only deliberately,
but thru a clever strategy, succeeded in winning the affection and love to the woman

to the extent of having illicit relations with her. The wrong caused to her and her
family is contrary to morals etc as contemplated in Art 21.
Case: Wassmer vs Velez, 12 Scra 648
Facts: W & V applied for a license to contract of marriage. The wedding was set,
invitations were printed and distributed to relatives, friends. Wedding dresses
purchased (bridal, flower girls maid of honor, etc), reception and other amenities
reserved. But before the wedding, the boy left for Mindanao and never returned.
Held: The mere breach of promise to marry is not an actionable wrong. But to
formally set a wedding and go thru all those preparation and expenses and publicity
only to walk out is contrary to good custom for which defendant is held answerable
for damages under Art 21.

B. Unjust enrichment
1. Every Person thru an act or performance by another or any other means,
acquires or comes into possession of something at the expense of the latter without
just or legal ground shall return the same to him (Art 22)
Prof. Jarencion Illustration
A community was raised by lawless elements and took personal belongings of
the helpless residents. When the Govt forces came driving the lawless elements and
restoring peace and order, the owner of the house occupied by the lawless element
found several personal belongings of other left by the fleeing outlaws. The person
owning those personal belonging taken by the outlaws have the right to recover them
from the finder under Art 22.
2. Even when an act or event causing damage to anothers property was not due
to the fault or negligent of the defendant, the latter shall be liable for indemnity if thru
the act or event he was benefited (Art 23)
Illustration given by the Code Commission
Without As knowledge, a flood drive his cattle to the cultivated highland of
B. As cattle were saved but Bs crop were destroyed because they were eaten by the
cattle. While A was not at fault however he was benefited when his cattle were saved
from the flood aside from being well fed. It is butt right and equitable that A should

indemnify B for the loss of his crop. Otherwise the injured party B would be unjustly
enriched at the expense of the party who received the benefit.
See Arts 2142 and 2143
C. Violation of dignity, personality, privacy and peace of mind of neighbors and other
persons (Art 26)
Every person shall respect the dignity, personality, privacy and peace of mind of his
neighbors and other persons. The following and similar acts, though they may not
constitute a criminal offense, shall produce a cause of action for damages, prevention
and other relief:
(1) Prying into the privacy of another's residence:
(2) Meddling with or disturbing the private life or family relations of another;

(3) Intriguing to cause another to be alienated from his friends;

(4) Vexing or humiliating another on account of his religious beliefs, lowly station in
life, place of birth, physical defect, or other personal condition.

D. Dereliction of official duty by public official (Art 27)

Any person suffering material or moral loss because a public servant or
employee refuses or neglects, without just cause, to perform his official duty may file
an action for damages and other relief against he latter, without prejudice to any
disciplinary administrative action that may be taken.
This provision was designed to redress complaints of the people that in dealing
with public officials and employees that they are not properly attended to while those
who are rich influential and powerful are given prompt and even servile attention.
Worst is some public officials/ employee took advantage of their position, expectly or
demand bribe for the performance of their duty which lowered the morals of public
service and seriously undermined public confidence of the govt.
Case: Zulueta vs Nicolas, 102 Phil 844

Facts: Z filed a complaint against the Governor of Rizal for libel. After investigation
the Fiscal absolved the Governor on the ground that there was no prima facie evidence
for filing the libel complaint.
Z then filed a civil action against under Art 27 NCC
Held: The fiscal of absolving the Governor upon finding no sufficient evidence to
establish a prima facie case is not refusal without just cause to perform his official
duty to file the complaint for libel. The fiscal is vested with authority and discretion to
determine whether or not there is sufficient evidence to justify the filing of an action,
and having control of the prosecution of a criminal case, the fiscal cannot be subjected
to direction from the offended party. Action dismissed.
E. Unfair competition in agricultural, commercial or industrial enterprises or in labor
through the use of force, intimidation, deceit, machination or any other unjust,
oppressive or highhanded method shall give rise to a right of action by the person who
thereby suffers damage. (Art 28)
F. Acquittal in criminal case on the ground that guilt has not been proved beyond
reasonable doubt. A civil action for damages for the same act or omission may be
instituted and such action requires only preponderance of evidence. (Art 29)
The rationale for this is provided in Art 2177 NCC which states the
responsibility for fault or negligence is entirely separate and distinct from the civil
liability arising from negligence under the Revised Penal Code but the plaintiff cannot
recover twice for the same act or omission.
However, if the acquittal is based on proof that the accused did not commit a
crime, or that no crime was committed, or because he is justified or exempt from
criminal liability, no civil action may be instituted because the acquittal on those
ground constitutes res adjudicate.
Case: PNB vs Capiton, 98 Phil 286
Held: Acquittal of an accused in Estafa case on the ground that his guilt has not been
satisfactorily established is equivalent to one on reasonable doubt and does not
preclude filing of civil action for the same act or omission under Art 29 NCC.
However to protect the person from harassment, the law authorizes defendant
to file a motion in court requiring the plaintiff to file a bond to answer for damages in
case complaint should be found malicious.