Torts and DamagesI . Concept/ Definition

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.

Quasi Delict refers to acts or omissions which cause damage to another, there being fault or

negligence on the part of the defendant, who is obliged by law to pay for the damages done.

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 defendant’s act and the damages

incurred by the plaintiff (Andamo vs IAC, 191 SCRA 426, ’96)

Article 2176 of the Civil Code applies when there’s no pre-existing contractual relation between the

parties. However, the supreme court held that even if there is contractual relation, there will still be

quasi-delict since “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

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 actor’s 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 actor’s

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.

Illustrative Case: GSIS vs CA, 308 SCRA 559, ‘99

Facts: NFA National Food Authority – owner of Chevrolet truck insured by GSIS- CMVLI. 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. Distinctions 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. Employer’s 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 – it’s independent from crime.

6. Employer’s liability is solidary (Fabre Jr. vs CA, 259 SCRA 426)

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) unless acquittal is based on the court’s 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)

McKee vs IAC:

Facts: Two boys suddenly darted before McKee’s 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

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

Facts: Austria driving her car very fast bumped a cargo truck improperly parked along the road.

Held: Proximate cause of collision is Austria’s 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.

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 one’s 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 patient’s weight which caused a heart attact.

Case: Batiquin vs CA, July 5, ’96 -  a surgeon left a piece of rubber in the woman’s 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 boy’s 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 parent’s 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 person’s 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)

Exconde 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 teacher’s 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 person-king 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 non-governmental 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

agent’s 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 victim’s 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: Province’s 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 latter’s 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 office’s 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 Airport’s 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 NIA’s 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)

LGU’s 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: Municipal’s 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

Municipality’s 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 Malacañang. Heirs of the dead rallyist sued the Republic and

Military Officers and soldiers. Judge Sandoval dismiss their suit invoking State’s 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 State’s 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

state’s 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, (master-servant) 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 company’s 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 employer’s 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 employee’s 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

carratella’s 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. Yu’s driver was negligent. Was Yu liable?

Held: The basis of the master/employer’s 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 master’s

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 driver’s 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 sale’s 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 Lim’s 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.

—————————————————————————————————————————————————————-

DAMAGESThe 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)De la Rama Steamship vs Tan, 99 Phil 1034 – Gov’t agency terminated contract of agency under its right stipulated in the contract, although the agent suffered damages.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.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 code’s 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 Code’s provisions on damages as the general law.Ysmael Maritime Corp vs Avelino, 151 SCRA 333

Held: The heirs of the deceased seaman have the choice of availing remedy to recover damages, workmen’s 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 correctiveGeneral 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 DamagesB. Moral DamagesC. Temperate DamagesD. 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.

German Marine Agencies Inc. Vs NLRC, 350 SCRA 641Facts: 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)PCIB vs CA, 350 SCRA 446, ’01

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.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.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.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 defendant’s 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 damagesis 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.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 funeralb. Arts and actions referred in Articles on human relation – 21, 26, to 30, 32 to 35c. 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)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 defendant’s

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. Criminal offenses resulting to physical injuries (Art 33 NCC and Madeja Caro, 126

SCRA 293)

b. Quasi-delict causing physical injuries

c. Adultery and concubinage

d. Abduction, Rape, Seduction and other malicious act, victim and parent are entitled

e. Illegal search

f. Illegal arbitrary detention or arrest

g. Libel, slander or other form of defamation (Art 33)

h. Malicious prosecutionObligations and liabilities arising from human relation

The civil code’s 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)

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. Man’s act is contrary to moral, good customs or public policy.

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 girl’s 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.

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).

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 another’s 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 A’s knowledge, a flood drive his cattle to the cultivated highland of B. A’s cattle were saved

but B’s 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.

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.

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