I.

GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS
Chapters 1 and 2 (Cruz, Philippine Political Law, latest ed.)
Art. XII, 1987 Constitution
Secs. 1, 4(2) & 5 (2)(A), Art. VIII, 1987 Consti.

A. Political Law, defined

B. Branches of Political Law
C. Constitutional Law, defined

D. Constitutional Democracy and Constitutionalism

E. Constitution, defined
- Sinco, Philippine Political Law

The Social Contract Theory (of Hobbes, Locke, & Rousseau)

Meaning of Constitution

Purpose and role of a Constitution

The Doctrine of Supremacy of the Constitution

Classifications of Constitutions

Essential Qualities of a good written Constitution

Essential parts of a good written Constitution

Methods of Constitutions interpretation and Construction

In general (Textualism, Originalism, Holistic, Political and Moral Right
Theory (Dworkinian), Critical Theory)

In Philippine Constitutionalism

 Francisco, Jr. v. House of Representatives, GR. 160261, Nov. 10,

2003

Presumption in Constitutional interpretation

Constitution is self-executing
 Collector of Customs v. Villaluz, 71 SCRA 356
 Manila Prince Hotel v. GSIS, Gr. No. 122156, Feb. 3, 1997

Constitution is Mandatory
Constitution is prospective

Amendments and Revision

 Chapter 18, Cruz, Philippine Political Law (latest ed.)
 Art. XVII, 1987 Constitution

1
 Methods of Changing the Constitution
Congress acting as Constituent Assembly
Constitutional Convention
People’s Initiative (Amendment only)

 Defensor-Santiago v. Comelec Gr. No. 127325, March 19, 1997

 Lambino v. Comelec G.R. No. 174153, Oct. 25, 2006

Amendment v. Revision
 Lambino v. Comelec, supra.

Steps/stages in Amendment/Revision process

Proposal (3 methods)
 Lambino v. Comelec, supra
 In re Subido, 35 SCRA 1
 Imbong v. Comelec, 35 SCRA 28

Ratification
-the doctrine of Fair and Proper Submission
-Gonzales v. Comelec, 21 SCRA 774
-Almario v. Alba, 127 SCRA 69
-Occena v. Comelec, 95 SCRA 755
-Tolentino v. Comelec, 41 SCRA 702

Judicial Review of Amendments/Revisions

 Gonzales v. Comelec, supra

 Tolentino v. Comelec, supra
 Planas v. Comelec, 49 SCRA 105
 Javellana v. Executive Secretary, 50 SCRA 50
 Sanidad v. Comelec, 73 SCRA 333

Theories on the position of Constitutional Convention in relation to the regular

department of the Government

Theory of Conventional Sovereignty

Inferiority of Constitutional Convention
Independence and Co-equality
 Mabanag v. Lopez Vito, 78 Phil. 1

F. The Constitution and the Judiciary

Judicial Power
 sec. 1, Art. VIII, 1987 Constitution

a. Judicial Power
b. Judicial Review
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 i. Ordinary Judicial Review (Constitutional Review)
ii. Expanded Judicial Review (Extraordinary Certiorari Jurisdiction)
 Bondoc v. Pineda, 201 SCRA 792

The doctrine of Supremacy of the Constitution

 Angara v. Electoral Commission, 63 Phil. 139

How Judicial Review is exercised

 Sec. 4(2), Art. VIII, 1987 Constitution

Who may exercise Judicial Review

 Sec. 1, 4(2) & 5(2)(A), Art. VIII, 1987 Constitution
 Mirasol v. Court of Appeals, G.R. No. 128448, Feb. 1, 2001

Functions of Judicial Review

Checking
Legitimating
Symbolic

 Salonga v. Paño, 134 SCRA 438

 Acop v. Guingona, G.R. No. 134855, July 2, 2002

Requisites of Judicial Review

a. Actual Case or Controversy; Ripeness of Controversy

 PACU v. Secretary of Education, 97 Phil. 806
 Tan v. Macapagal, 43 SCRA 678
 Dumlao v. Comelec, 95 SCRA 392
 Lacson v. Perez, G.R. No. 147780, May 10, 2001
 Enrile v. Senate Electoral Tribunal and Pimentel, G.R. No. 132986,
May 19, 2004
 Ople v. Torres, 293 SCRA 141
 Didipio Earth-Savers’ Multi-purpose Association, Incorporated
(DESAMA) v. Gozun, G.R. No. 157882, March 30, 2006
 Senate of the Philippines v. Ermita, G.R. No. 169777, April 20,
2006
 Prof. Randolf S. David v. Gloria Macapaga-Arroyo, G.R. No.
171396, May 3, 2006

b.Legal Standing (Locu Standi)

 Dumlao v. Comelec, supra
 De Guia v. Comelec, G.R. No. 104712, May 6, 1992
 Oposa v. Factoran, Jr. 224 SCRA 792
 Macasiano v. National Housing Authority, 224 SCRA 236
 Tatad v. Garcia 243 SCRA 436
 Telecommunications and Broadcast Attorneys of the Philippines v.
Comelec, 289 SCRA 337
 Kilosbayan v. Guingona, Jr., 232 SCRA 110
 Kilosbayan v. Morato, G.R. No. 118910, July 17, 1995
3
  Integrated Bar of the Philippines v. Zamora, G.R. No. 141284,
August 15, 2000
 Bagong Alyansang Makabayan v. Zamora, 342 SCRA 449 (2000)
 Lim v. Executive Secretary, 380 SCRA 739 (2202)
 Chavez v. Public Estates Authority, G.R. No. 133250, July 9, 2002
 Automotive Industry Workers Alliance (AIWA) v. Romulo, G.R. No.
157509, Jan. 18, 2005
 Jumamil v. Café, G.R. No. 144570, Sept. 21, 2005
 Prof. Randolf S. David v. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, supra.
i. Requisites for Taxpayers Suit, Lawmakers Suit, Voters
Suit, and Concerned Citizens Suit.
• Tan v. Macapagal, supra
• Demetria v. Alba, G.R. No. 71977, Feb. 27, 1987
• Gonzales v. Narvasa, G.R. No. 140835, August 14,
2000
• Prof. Randolf S. David v. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo,
supra

ii. The Paramount Importance Doctrine

 Kilosbayan v. Guingona, Jr., supra
 Lim v. Executive Secretary, supra

iii. Locus Standi Requirement in “On Its Face” attack (Facial

Challege) [as oppose to “As Applied” attack] Statutes and
the Doctrines of “Strict scrutiny”, “overbreath”, “void-for-
vagueness”
• Estrada v. Sandiganbayan, G.R. No. 148560,
Nov. 19, 2001
c. The Constitutional question must be raise at the ealiest possible
opportunity; exceptions
 Umali v. Guingona, G.R. No. 131124, March 29, 1999
 Tijam v. Sibonghanoy, 23 SCRA 29 (1968).
 Ballesteros v. Abion, G.R. No. 143361, Feb. 9, 2006
 Mangaliag v. Hon. Catubig-Pastoral, G.R. No. 143951, Oct. 25,
2005
d. The decision on the Constitutional question must be determinative
of the case itself (the Constitutional question must be the very lis
mota)
 Laurel v. Garcia, 187 SCRA 797
 Sotto v. Comelec, 76 Phil. 516

Effects of Declaration of Uncostitutionality

a. The Orthodox View
b. The Modern View
- Article 7, New Civil Code of the Phils.
- Serano de Agbayani v. PNB, 38 SCRA 429

Partial Unconstitutionality; Conditions

- Salazar v. Achacoso, 183 SCRA 145
4
 G. The 1987 Philippine Constitution
- Lawyers League for a Better Phils. V. Pres. Aquino, G.R. Nos. 73748,
73972, 73990, May 22, 1986

- In Re Saturnino Bermudez, G.R. No. 76180, Oct. 24, 1986

- De Leon v. Esguerra, 153 SCRA 602

- In Re: Justice Renato S. Puno, AM No. 90-11-2697-CA, June 29, 1992

II. THE PHILIPPINES AS A STATE

Read:
- Chapters 3 and 4, Cruz, Isagani A., “Phil. Political Law” (latest ed.)

- Artcles I, IV, 1987 Constitution

- Assigned cases
A. State, defined
-The Province of North Cotabato v. GRP, G.R. No. 183591, Oct. 14, 2008

-Collector of Internal Revenue v. Campos Rueda, 42 SCRA 23

B. State, distinguished from Nation, from Government

C. Territory
Article I, 1987 Constitution

(Cruz, latest ed.)

D. People
1. Different Concepts of “people”

2. citizenship
II.1 Importance
-Lee v. Dir. Of Lands, G.R. No. 128195, Oct. 3, 2001

II.2 Modes of Acquisition; Citizens of the Phils.

-Tecson v. Comelec, G.R. No. 161434, March 3, 2004

-Valles v. Comelec, 337 SCRA 543 (2000)

-Re: Application of Ching, Bar Matter No. 914, Oct. 1, 1999

-Bengson III v. HRET, G.R. No. 142840, May 7, 2001

-Co v. HRET, 199 SCRA 692

5
 II.3 Naturalization: Judicial, Administrative, Congressional
-Commonwealth Act No. 473

-RA No. 530

-Moya v. Commissioner, 41 SCRA 292
-Republic v. Dela Rosa, G.R. No. 104654, June 6, 1994
-Republic v. Liyao, 214 SCRA 748

II.4 Loss of citizenship

-Bengson v. HRET, supra

-Coquilla v. Comelec, G.R. No. 151914, July 31, 2002

II.5 Reacquisition
-Frivaldo v. Comelec, 257 SCRA 731
-Angat v. Republic, G.R. No. 132244, Sept. 14, 1999
-Altarejos v. Comelec, G.R. No. 163256, Nov. 10, 2004
II.6 Dual citizenship and dual allegiance
Citizenship Reacquisition Act of 2003
-Mercado v. Manzano, 307 SCRA 630
-Calilung v. Datumanong, G.R. No. 160869, May 11, 2007
E. Sovereignty
-Sinco, Phil. Political Law
-Reagan v. CIR, 30 SCRA 968
-Sovereignty-Modern: A new approach to an Outdated concept by John Jackson
at www.asil.org/ajil/jackson.pdf

F. Sovereign Immunity: Doctrine of Non-suability of State

1. Basis
-Section 3, Art. XVI, 1987 Constitution
-Republic v. Villasor, 54 SCRA 83

2. Suit Against State

-Republic v. Feliciano, 148 SCRA 424
-Del Mar v. PVA, 51 SCRA 340
-PNB v. CIR, 81 SCRA 314
-Lansang v. CA, G.R. No. 102667, Feb. 23, 2000
-Calub v. Court of Appeals

3. Consent
-Republic v. Feliciano, 148 SCRA 424
-Meritt v. GPI, 34 Phil 311
-Act No. 3083
-USA v. Ruiz, 136 SCRA 487
-Commissioner of Public Highways v. Burgos, 96 SCRA 831

G. Government
1. Government in General, defined
-US v. Dorr, 2 Phil 322 (at 339)

2. Government of the Phils.

6
 -section 2, Administrative Code of the Phils.
-Estrada v. Arroyo, supra

3. Kinds of Government
-Co Kim Cham v. Tan Keh, Sept. 17, 1945
-Lawyers League for Better Phils v. Aquino, supra

4. Functions of Government: Ministrant and Constituent

5. Doctrines of Parens Patriae

-GP v. Monte de Piedad, G.R. No. 9959, Dec. 13, 1916

III. STATE PRINCIPLES AND POLICIES

Read:
-Chapter 5, Cruz, Isagani A., “Philippine Political Law” (latest ed.)
-Preamble 1987 Constitution
-Article II, 1987 Constitution
-Assigned cases

1. Nature of:
a. The Preamble
b. The declaration of Principles and State Policies
-Basco v. PAGCOR, G.R.No. 91649, May 14, 1991, 197 SCRA 52
-Kilosbayan Inc. v. Morato, G.R. No. 118910, 246 SCRA 540
-Manila Prince Hotel v. GSIS, G.R. No. 122156, Feb. 3,1997
-Tañada v. Angara, G.R. No. 118295, May 2, 1997

2. State Principles (sec. 1-6, Article II)

a. Sovereignty of the people and republicanism
Read: Concurring opinion of Justice Mendoza in
Estrada v. Arroyo, supra
Read: Dissenting opinion of Justice Puno in Tolentino et al. v.
Comelec, GR. No, 148334, Jan. 21, 2004

b. Adherence to International Law

Phillip Morris v. Court of Appeals, GR. No. 91332, July 16, 1993
Sec. of Justice vs. Lantion, GR. 139465, Jan. 18, 2000
Compare: Doctrine of Transformation
Govt. of USA v. Purganan, GR 148571, Dec. 17, 2002

c. Civilian Supremacy

d. Government as protector of the people, and people as defenders of the

State

e. Separation of Church and State

Art. III, Section 5
Art. IX ©, sec. 2 (5)
Art. VI, Sec. 5 (2)
7
 Exceptions:
Art. VI, Sec. 28 (3), Sec. 29 (2)
Art. XIV, Sec. 3 (3), Sec. 4 (2)
Aglipay v. Ruiz, 64 Phil. 201

3. State Policies (sec. 7-28, Article II)

a. Independent foreign policy and nuclear-free Philippine
b. Just and dynamic social order
b.1. Social Justice (sec. 10);
-Calalang v. Williams, 70 Phil 726
b.2. Human rights (sec. 11)
b.3. Equality of Men and Women (sec. 14)
b.4. Promotion of Health and Ecology (Sec. 15, 16);
-Oposa v. Factoran, 224 SCRA 792)
b.5. Priority of Education, Science, Technology, Arts, Culture & Sports
(Sec. 17)
b.6. Urban Land Reform and Housing (Art. III, Sec. 9-10)
b.7. Reform in Agriculture and Other Nat. Res. (sec. 21)
b.8. Protection to Labor (Sec.18)
b.9. Independent People’s Organization (sec. 19)
b.10. Family (sec. 12)
b.11. Self-reliant and Independent economic order (sec. 19-20)
b.12. Communication and Information (Sec. 24)
b13. Autonomy of Local Governments (Sec. 25)
b.14. Rights of indigenous cultural communities (sec. 22)
b.15. Honest Public Service and Full Disclosure (sec. 27)
-Valmonte v. Belmonte, 170 SCRA 256,

IV. POWERS AND STRUCTURE OF PHILIPPINE GOVERNMENT IN GENERAL

Read: -Chapter 6 & 7, Cruz, Isagni A., “Philippine Political Law” (latest ed.)
-assigned cases
-Separate Opinion, Justice Puno, Macalintal v. Comelec, et al. GR No.157013,
July 10, 2003
A. Doctrine of Separation of Powers

B. Doctrine of Non-delegation of Legislative Powers

-Pp. v. Vera, 65 Phil 56 (facts and pp. 112-125 only)
-Edu v. Ericta, 35 SCRA 481
-ACCFA v, CUGCO, 30 SCRA 649
-Eastern Shipping Lines v. POEA, 166 SCRA 533
Exceptions:
1. secs. 23(2) and 28 (2) – delegation to the President
2. secs. 32, Art. VI – delegation to the people
3. Art. X, sec. 5 – delegation to the LGUs
4. Delegation to Administrative agencies
Test of valid delegation
1. Completeness test
2. Sufficient Standard Test
Cases:
-Eastern Shipping Lines, Inc. v. POEA, supra
8
 -Tatad v. Secretary of the Department of energy, 281 SCRA 330 (1997)
-Santiago v. Comelec, 270 SCRA 106 (1997)

The Doctrine of “Potestas delegata non delegari potest”; Exception

-Kilusang Mayo Uno Labor Center v. Garcia, Jr., 239 SCRA 386 (1994)
-American Tobacco Co. v. Director of Patents, 67 SCRA 287 (1975)

V. LEGISLATIVE DEPARTMENT: STRUCTURE

Read: -Chapter 8, Cruz, Isagani A., “Philippine Political Law” (latest ed.)
-Article VI, 1987 Contitution
-Assigned Cases

A. COMPOSITION
-Sema v. Comelec, GR no. 177597, July 16, 2008

a.1. Senate (secs. 2-4)

a.2. House of Representatives (secs. 5-8)
Republic Act No. 7941
Tobias v. Abalos, GR No. L-114783, Dec. 8, 1994
Mariano, Jr. v. Comelec, GR no. 118577, March 7, 1995
Veterans Federation Party v. Comelec, 342 SCRA 244
Bantay Republic Act or BA-RA 7941 v. Comelec, GR NO. 177271, May 4,
2007
Citizen’s Battle Against Corruption (CIBAC) v. Comelec, GR No. 172103,
April 13, 2007
Bagong Bayani-OFW v. Comelec, GR No. 147589, June 26, 2001
Torayno v. Comelec, GR. No. 137329, August 9, 2000
BANAT v. Comelec, GR No. 179271, April 21, 2009 (en Banc)

B. QUALIFICATIONS AND TERMS OF OFFICE

Social Justice Society v. Dangerous Drugs Board, GR No. 157870, Nov. 3, 2008

b.1 Residence requirement

Macalintal v. Comelec, et al., supra
Read also Separate opinion of Justice Puno

b.2 Term vs. Tenure

Dimaporo v. Mitra, 202 SCRA 779
Gaminde v. COA, GR. NO. 140335, Dec. 13, 2000

C. ELECTION (secs. 8-9)

Tolentino, et al. v. Comelec, GR No. 148334, Jan. 21, 2004
Macalintal v. Comelec, July 10, 2003

D. ORGANIZATION AND SESSIONS

d.1. Election of Officers (sec. 16 (1))
d.2. Quorum (sec.16 (2))
Avelino v. Cuenco, 83 Phil 17
d.3. Rules of Proceedings (sec. 16 (3), 21)
Arroyo v. De Venecia, GR No. 127255, Aug. 14, 1997
9
 d.4. Discipline of members (sec. 16 (3))
Alejandrino v. Quezon, 46 phil 83
Osmeña v. Pendatun, 109 Phil 863
Santiago v. Sandiganbayan, GR. No. 126055, April 19, 2001
d.5. Journal and Congressional Records (sec. 16 (4))

d.5.a The enrolled Bill Theory

Mabanag v. Lopez Vito, 78 Phil 1
Casco v. Gimenez, 7 SCRA 347

d.5.b. Probative Value of Journal

US v. Pons, 34 Phil 729

d.5.c. Matters to be entered into the Journal

(a) yeas and nays on 3rd and final reading (sec. 26 (2))
(b) veto message of the President (sec. 27 (1))
(c) yeas and nays on repassing of vetoed bill (id)
(d) yeas and nays on any question upon request of 1/5 of members
present (sec. 16 (4))

d.5.d. journal entry rule v. Enrolled Bill Theory

Astorga v. Villegas, 56 SCRA 714
Morales v. Subido, 27 SCRA 131
Arroyo v. de Venecia, 277 SCRA 268

E. CONGRESSIONAL RECORDS (sec. 16 (4), par. 2)

F. SESSIONS
f.1. Regular sessions (secs. 15 and 16 (5))
f.2. Special sessions
sec. 15
Art. VII, Sec. 10-11
Art. VII, Sec. 18, par. 3
f.3. Joint sessions
f.3.a Voting separately
Art. VII, sec. 4, 11 (4), 9
Sec. 23 (1)
Art. XVII, sec. 1 (1)
f.3.b. Voting Jointly
Art. VII, sec. 18

G. CONSTITUTIONAL ORGANS WITHIN CONGRESS

g.1. Electoral Tribunals (sec. 17 and 19)
g.1.a Composition
Tañada v. Cuenco, 103 Phil 1051
g.1.b. Function
Angara v. Electoral Commission, 63 Phil 139
Barbers v. Comelec, GR. No. 165691, June 22, 2005
Limkaichong v. Comelec, GR. No. 179120, Biraogo v. Nograles;
G.R. No. 179132-33, Paras v. Nograles; GR. Nos. 179240-41,
Villando v. Comelec, GR Nos. 178831-32, April 1, 2009

10
 g.1.c. Judicial Review
Co. v. Electoral Tribunal, 199 SCRA 692
Guerrero v. Comelec, GR No. 137004, july 26, 2000
Pimentel v. HRET, GR. No. 141489, nov. 29, 2002
Codilla v. de Venecia, GR. No. 150605, Dec. 10, 2002

g.2. Commission on Appointments 9secs. 18 and 19)

guingona jr. v. Gonzales, GR No. 106971, Oct. 20, 1992
Coseting v. Mitra, 187 SCRA 377
Daza v. Singson, 180 SCRA 496

H. SALARIES
Section 10
Art. XVIII, Sec. 17

I. PRIVILEGES
i.1. Freedom from arrest (sec. 11)
Martinez v. Morfe 44 SCRA 22
i.2.Privilege of speech and debate
Jimenez v. Cabangbang, 17 SCRA 876
People v. Jalosjos, GR no. 132 SCRA 875
J. RESTRICTIONS (secs. 13, 14, 12, 20)
Adaza v. Pacana, Jr., 135 SCRA 431
Puyat v. De Guzman, 113 SCRA 31

j.1. appearance as counsel

Villegas v. Legaspi, GR No. 53869, March 25, 1982

VI. LEGISLATIVE DEPARTMENT: POWERS

Read: -Chapter 9, Cruz, Izagani A., “Philippine Political Law” (latest ed.)
-Article VI, 1987 Constitution
-Part I of Legislative Investigations and Right to Privacy
By: Hon. Reynato S. Puno, The Lawyers Review, April 30, 2005
Assigned cases
A. GENERAL PLENARY POWERS (sec 26)

B. LEGISLATIVE MILL (How does a bill become a law?)

C. REQUIREMENTS AS TO BILLS
c.1. Subject and Title (sec 26)
Cruz v. Paraz, 123 scra 569

c.2. As to specific laws (Art. VII, sec 22)

secs. 24-25
Tolentino v. Sec. of Finance, 235 SCRA 630
Demetria v. Alba, 148 SCRA 208
Sec 29
Guingona v. Carague, 196 SCRA 221
Abakada Guro v. Ermita, GR No. 168056, Sept. 1, 2005 (En Banc)
Sec 28
Art. XIV, sec. 4(3) and (4)
11
 Lung Center v. Quezon City, GR No. 144104, June 29, 2004

c.3. Procedure for Passage of Bills

sec. 26(2)
Tolentino v. Sec. of Finance, 235 SCRA 630
Farinas v. Executive Secretary, GR No. 147387, Dec. 10, 2003

c.4. Presidential Veto (sec. 27)

Bolinao Electronic Corp. v. Valencia, 11 SCRA 486
Gonzalez v. Macaraig, 191 SCRA 452
PHILCONSA v. Enriquez, GR No. 113105, August 19, 1994

c.5. Effectivity of Laws

Tañada v. Tuvera, 136 SCRA 27
EO 200, June 18, 1987
PVB Employees v. Judge Vera, GR No. 105364, June 18, 2001
c.6. Initiative and Referendum
R.A. No. 6735, August 4, 1989
Garcia v. Comelec, GR no. 111230, September 30, 1994

D. LIMITATIONS TO POWER OF LEGISLATION

d.1. Express Limitations
Art. III
Sec. 26, 28
Art. XIV, sec. 4(3)
Sec. 29-31
d.2. Implied Substantive Limitations
d.2.a. Non-delegation of Legislative Powers; Exceptions
d.2.b. Prohibition against passage of irrepealable laws

d.3. Procedural Limitations (sec. 26-27)

phil. Judges Association v. Prado, 227 SCRA 703

E. AIDS TO LEGISLATION
Read: Part 1 of Legislative Investigations and Right to Privacy
By: hon. Reynato S. Puno
The Lawyers Review, April 30, 2005

e.1. Question Hour (sec. 22)

Senate of the Philippines v. Ermita, GR No. 169777, April 20, 2006

e.2. Legislative Investigations (sec. 21)

Senate of the Philippines v. Ermita, GR No. 169777, April 20, 2006
Bengzon v. Senate Blue Ribbon Committee, GR. No. L-89914,
Nov. 20, 1991
Negros Oriental II Electric Coop v. SP, 155 SCRA 421
Arnault v. Nazareno, 87 Phil. 29
Senate Blue Ribbon Committee v. Majaducon, July 29, 2003
Read: Separate Opinion of J. Puno in Macalintal v. Comelec, July 10,
2003
12
 In the Matter of the Petition for Issuance of Writ of Habeas Corpus of
Camilo Sablo, GR No. 174340, Oct. 17, 2006 (En Banc)
Gudani v. Senga, GR No. 170165, August 15, 2006 (En Banc)
Neri v. Senate Committee of Accountability of Public Officers and
Investigation, GR no. 180643, March 25, 2008 (En Banc)

F. OTHER POWERS
f.1. As Board of Canvassers in Election for Pres. And Vice President
(Art. VII, sec. 4)
f.2. Call Special Election for President and Vice President (Art. VII, sec. 10)
f.3. Revoke/extend suspension of privilege of writ of habeas corpus,
declaration of Martial Law (Art. VII, sec. 18)
f.4. Approve Presidential Amnesties (Art. VII, sec. 19)
f.5. Confirm certain appointments (Art. VII, sec. 9 and 16)
Sarmiento v. Mison, 156 SCRA 549
f.6. Concur in treaties (Art. VII, sec. 21)
f.7. Declare war and delegate emergency powers (sec. 23)
f.8. Judge President’s fitness
Art. VII, sec. 11, par. 4
Estrada v. Arroyo, supra.
f.9. powers of Impeachment (Art. XI)
-Read: Chapter 17, Cruz, Izagani A., “Philippine Political Law”
(latest ed.)
f.9.a. Who may be Impeached (Art. XI, sec. 2)
in re Gonzales, 160 SCRA 771
f.9.b. Grounds (Art. XI, sec. 2)
f.9.c. Procedure (Art. XI, sec. 3(1) to (6))
f.9.d. Effect (Art. XI, sec. 3(7))
Barcenas v. House of Representatives, GR. No. 160405
November 10, 2003
f.10. Power to change the Constitution

VII. EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT: THE PRESIDENT

Read: -Chapter 10, Cruz, Izagani A., “Philippine Political Law” (latest ed.)
-Art. VII, 1987 Constitution
-Assigned cases

A. QUALIFICATIONS, ELECTION, TERM, OATH (sec. 2,4,5)

B. PRIVILEGE AND SALARY (sec. 6)

b.1. Executive Immunity
Soliven v. Makasiar, 167 SCRA 393
Estrada v. Desierto, GR No. 146710-15, March 2, 2001

b.2. Executive Privilege

Almonte, et al. v. Vasquez, GR No. 95367, May 23, 1995
Senate of the Philippines v. Ermita, GR No. 169777, April 20, 2006

C. PROHIBITIONS (sec. 13)

Doromal v. Sandiganbayan, GR. No. 85468, September 7, 1989
Civil Liberties Union v. Exec. Sec., 194 SCRA 317
13
 Compare with prohibition against other officials:
Art. VI, sec. 13
Art. IX, A, sec. 2
Art. IX, B, sec. 7
Art. VIII, sec. 12

Exception to the rule:

Vice-President- Art. VII, sec. 3, par. 2
Secretary of Justice- Art. VIII, sec. 8(1)
Ex officio positions

D. SUCCESSION
(a) At the beginning of the term
Art. VII, sec. 7, 10
(b) During the term
Art. VII, Sec. 8, 10
(c) Temporary Disability
Art. VII, secs. 2-3
Estrada v. Arroyo, supra.

E. REMOVAL (Art. XI, secs. 2-3)

VIII. EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT: POWERS AND FUNCTIONS OF THE

PRESIDENT
Read: -chapter 11, Cruz, Isagani A., “Philippine Political Law” (latest ed.)
-Art. VII, 1987 Constitution
-Assigned cases

A. EXECUTIVE POWER (Art. VII, secs. 1 and 17)

Marcos v. Manglapus, 177 SCRA 668 and 178 SCRA 760
Gonzales v. Hechanova, 9 SCRA 230
DENR v. DENR Employees, GR. No. 149725, August 19, 2003

B. POWER OF CONTROL (sec. 17)

Mondano v. Silvosa, 97 Phil 143
Villena v. Sec. of Interior, 67 Phil 451
Free Te. Workers v. Minister of Labor, 108 SCRA 75

C. POWER OF GENERAL SUPERVISION OF OVER LOCAL GOVERNMENTS

(Art. X, sec. 4, 16)
Ganzon v. CA, 200 SCRA 271
Dadole v. COA, GR. No. 125350, Dec. 3, 2002

D. POWER OF APPOINTMENT
d.1. basis
GPI v. Springer, 50 Phil 259
d.2. With concurrence of COA
Art. VII, sec. 16
Sarmiento v. Mison, 156 SCRA 549
14
 Conception-Bautista v. Salonga, 172 SCRA 160
Quintos-Deles v. COA, 177 SCRA 259
Calderon v. Carale, 208 SCRA 254
Rufino v. Endriga, GR no. 139554, July 21, 2006

(a.) Heads of Departments

(b.) Ambassadors, Public Ministers and Consuls
(c.) Officers of AFP from Colonel to Naval Captain
(d.) Chairman and Members of Constitutional Commissions
(e.) Regular Member of JBC (Art. VIII, sec. 8(2))
(f.) Sectoral (Art. XVIII, sec. 7)

d.3. Upon Recommendation of JBC

(a) members of SC and all other Courts (Art. VIII, sec.9)
(b) Ombudsman and deputies (Art. XI, sec. 9)

d.4. Appointment of Vice-President as cabinet member (sec. 3)

d.5. Appointments solely by President (sec. 16)

(a) Those whose appointments are not otherwise provided by law
(b) Those whom he may be authorized by law to appoint

d.6. Limitations to appointing power

d.6.1. Art. VII, sec. 13 and 15
Aytona v. Castillo, 4 SCRA 1
Jorge v. Mayor, 10 SCRA 331
Quimsing v. Tajanlangit, 10 SCRA 446

d.6.2. Interim or recess Appointments

Art. VI, sec. 19
Art. VII, sec. 16, par. 2
Guevara v. Inocentes, 16 SCRA 389
De Rama v. CA, GR No. 131136, February 28, 2001
Matibag v. Benipayo, GR No. 149036, April 2, 2002

d.6.3. Temporary designations

Adm. Code of 1987, Book III, sec. 17

d.6.4. Limitations on appointing power of Acting President (sec. 14-15)

E. PARDONING POWER (sec. 19)

Art. IX, C, sec. 5
e.1. Pardon distinguished from probation
Pp. v. Vera, 65 Phil 56
e.2. Pardon distinguished from parole
Torres v. Gonzales, 152 SCRA 272
e.3. Pardon distinguished from amnesty
Barrioquinto v. Fernandez, 82 Phil 642
Vera v. People, 7 SCRA
e.4. Effect of Pardon
15
 Monsanto v. Factoran, GR. No. 78239, Feb. 9, 1989
e.5. Who may avail of amnesty
Macaga-an v. People, 152 SCRA 430

F. MILITARY POWERS (sec. 18)

Art. II, sec. 13
Art. VIII, sec. 1, par. 2
Writ of amparo (October 24, 2007)
Writ of Habeas data (AM No. 08-1-16-SC)
Sanlakas v. Reyes, GR No. 159085, February 3,2004
IBP v. Zamora, ibid
Lacson v. Perez, May 10, 2001
David v. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, GR No. 171396, May 3, 2006
In Re: Ferdinand Arguelles, Jr. v.Baladia, Jr., GR No. 167211, March 14,
2006

G. EMERGENCY POWERS (Art. VII, sec. 23(2))

David v. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, GR no. 171396, May 3, 2006 (en bank)

H. CONTRACTING AND GUARANTEEING FOREIGN LOANS (sec. 20, 21)

I. POWER OVER FOREIGN AFFAIRS (sec. 21)

Bayan v. Zamora, 342 SCRA 449
Pimentel v. Executive Secretary, GR No. 158088, July 6, 2005
i.1. deportation of undesirable aliens
Go Tek v. Deportation Board, 79 SCRA 17

J. POWER OVER LEGISLATION

j.1. To address Congress (sec. 23)
j.2. Preparation and submission of budget (sec. 22)
Pimentel v. Anguirre, 336 SCRA 201
j.3. Veto Power (sec. 27)
j.4. Emergency power (Art. VI, sec. 23(2))

IX. THE JUDICIARY

Read: -Chapter 12, Cruz, Izagani A., “Philippine Political Law” (latest ed.)
-Article VIII, 1987 Constitution
-Assigned cases

A. THE SUPREME COURT

A.1. Composition (sec. 4)

Vatgas v. Rilloraza, 80 Phil297
US v. Limsiongco, 41 Phil 94
A.2. Appointment and qualifications (secs. 7,8,9)
A.3. Salary (sec. 10)
Art. XVIII, sec. 17
Perfecto v. Meer, 85 Phil 522
Endencia v. David, 93 Phil 696
16
 Nitafan v. CIR, 152 SCRA 284
A.4. Security of Tenure (sec. 11, sec. 2, par. 2)
De la Llana v. Alba, 112 SCRA 294
A.5. Removal (sec. 11)
Art. XI, sec. 2
A.6. Fiscal Autonomy (sec. 3)

B. POWERS OF THE SUPREME COURT

B.1. JUDICIAL POWER

b.1.a. (Art. VIII, sec.1)
Santiago v. Bautista, 32 SCRA 188
Mantruste Systems, Inc. v. CA, 179 SCRA 136
Daza v. Singson, 180 SCRA 496
Garcia v. Board of Investments, 191 SCRA 288
Barcenas v. House of Representatives, supra.
Miranda v. Aguirre, GR No. 133064, September 16, 1999

B.2. JUDICIAL REVIEW (see:PART I)

B.3. ART. VIII, sec. 5

In re Bermudez, 145 SCRA 160
Pp. v. Ramos, 88 SCRA 486
Rule 122 and A.M. No. 00-5-03-SC Re Amendments Governing Death
Penalty effective October 15, 2004
Pp. v. Mateo, GR. No. 147678-87, July 7, 2004
B.4. Art. VII, sec. 18, par. 3
Art. VII, Sec. 4, par. 7
Lopezv. Roxas
Art. IX, A, sec. 7

B.5. Congressional power over Jurisdiction of the Supreme Court

Sec. 2, par. 1
Art. VI, sec. 30
Villavert v. Desierto, GR No. 133715, Feb. 23, 2000
Fabian v. Desierto, GR No. 129742, Sept. 16, 1998

B.6. Manner of sitting and vote required

Art. VIII, sec.4
Rule 56, sec. 11 and rule 125, sec. 3, Rules of Court

B.7. Requirements as to decisions (secs. 13-14)

Yao v. Court of Appeals, GR. No. 132428, Oct. 24, 2000
Asiavest v. CA, GR No. 110263, July 20, 2001
b.7.1. Mandatory periods for deciding cases
Art. VIII, sec. 15
Art. VII, sec. 18, par. 3
Art. XVIII, sec. 12-14

B.8. ADMINISTRATIVE POWERS

b.8.1. Supervision of lower Courts (sec. 6, 11)
17
 Maceda v. Vasquez, 221 SCRA 464
b.8.2. Temporary assignment of Judges (Sec. 5(3))
b.8.3. Change of Venue (sec. 4)
b.8.4. Appointment of officials and employees of judiciary (sec. 5(6))

B.9. RULE-MAKING POWERS (sec. 5(5))

Art. XII, sec. 14, par. 2
Art. VII, sec. 18, par. 3
In re Cunanan, 94 Phil 534
In re Marcial Edillon, 84 SCRA 554
Re: Request for special Div, AM no. 02-1-09-SC, Jan. 21, 2002
Aguirre vs. Rana, Bar Matter No. 1036, June 10, 2003
In Re: Petition to disqualify Atty. Leonardo de Vera on Legal and Moral
Grounds from being elected IBP Governor for Eastern Mindanao in the
IBP elections, A.C. No. 6052, December 11, 2003

B.10. PROHIBITION AGAINST QUASI-JUDICIAL OR ADMINISTRATIVE

WORKS (sec. 12)
Manila Electric Co. v. Pasay Trans, 57 Phil 600
Garcia v. Macaraig, 39 SCRA 106
In Re Judge Rodolfo Manzano, 166 SCRA 246

C. REPORT ON JUDICIARY (sec. 16)

D. THE LOWER COURTS

d.1. Qualifications and Appointments (sec. 7(1)(2), 8(5), 9)
SB ng Taguig v. Judge Estrell, AM No. 01-1608-RJT, Jan. 16, 2001
d.2. Salary (sec. 10)
d.3. Congressional power to reorganize and security of tenure (sec. 11,2(2))
De la Llana v. Alba, 112 SCRA 294
d.4. Removal (sec. 11)
d.5. Jurisdiction (sec. 1)
Ynot v. IAC, 148 SCRA 659
d.6. Preparation for decisions (sec. 14)
d.7. Mandatory period for deciding
Art. VIII, Sec. 15
Art. XVIII, secs. 12-14
Marcelino v. Cruz, 121 SCRA 51
De Roma v. CA, 152 SCRA 205

E. THE JUDICIAL AND BAR COUNCIL (sec. 8)

F. AUTOMATIC RELEASE OF APPROPRIATIONS FOR JUDICIARY (sec. 3)

X. THE CONSTITUTIONAL COMMISSIONS

Read: -Chapter 13-16, Cruz, Isagani A., “Philippine Political Law” (latest ed.)
-Article IX, 1987 Constitution
-Assigned cases

A. CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION

a.1. Composition and Qualifications

18
 Art. IX, B, sec. 1(1)
Art. VII, sec. 13, par. 2
a.2. Appointment and term of office of commissioners
a.3. Appointment of personnel of CSC
Art. IX, A, sec. 4
a.4. Salary
Art. XVIII, sec. 17
Art. IX, A, sec. 3
a.5. Disqualifications
Art. IX, A, sec. 2
a.6. Removal
Art. XI, sec. 2
a.7. Functions
Art. IX, B, sec. 3
Art. IX, A, sec.7
Luego v. CSC 143 SCRA 327
a.8. Scope of Civil Secvice
Art. IX, B, sec. 2(1)
Leyson v. Ombudsman, GR No. 134990, April 27, 2000
Baluyot v. Holganza, GR No. 136374, Feb. 9, 2000

a.9. Review of Decisions

Art. IX, A, Sec. 7
a.10. Fiscal Autonomy
Art. IX, A, sec.5

B. COMMISSION ON ELECTIONS
b.1. Composition and Qualifications
Art. IX, C, sec. 1(1)
Art. VII, sec. 13, par. 2
Cayetano v. Monsod, 201 SCRA 210

b.2. Appointment and term of Office of Commisioners

Art. IX, C, sec. 1(2)

b.3. Disqualifications
Art. IX, A, sec. 4

b.4. Salary
Art. XVIII, sec. 17
Art. IX, A, sec. 3

b.5. Appointment of personnel

Art. IX, A, sec. 4

b.6. Removal
Art. IX, sec. 2

b.7. Functions
b.7.1. Administrative
Art. IX, C, sec. 2(1), (4), (5), (6),(7), (8), (9)
19
 b.7.2. Adjudicatory
Art. IX, C, sec. 2(2) and (3)
Javier v. Comelec, 144 SCRA 194
Canisoca v. Comelec, Dec. 5, 1997
b.7.3. Rule-making
Art. IX, A, sec. 6
Aruelo, Jr. v. CA, 227 SCRA 311
b.7.4. Regulatory
Art. IX, C, sec. 4
NPC v. Comelec, 144 SCRA 194

b.8. Review of Decisions

Art. IX, C, sec. 2(2)
Art. IX, A, sec. 7
Flores v. Comelec, 184 SCRA 484
Garces v. CA, 259 SCRA 99

b.9. Fiscal Autonomy

Art. IX, A, sec. 5

C. COMMISSION ON AUDIT

c.1. Composition and Qualifications

Art. IX, D, sec. 1(1)
Art. VII, sec. 13, par. 2

c.2. Appointment and term of office of commissioners

Art. IX, D, Sec. 1(2)
c.3. Appointment of personnel
Art. IX, A, sec. 4
c.4. Salary
Art. XVIII, sec. 17
Art. IX, A, sec. 3
c.5. Disqualifications
Art. IX, A, sec. 2
c.6. Removal
Art. XI, sec. 2
c.7. Functions
Art. IX, D, sec. 2-3
Art. VI, sec. 20
Art. IX, A, sec. 6
Phil Airlines v. COA, 245 SCRA 39
National Housing Corp. v. COA, 226 SCRA 55
Luego v. CSC, 143 SCRA 327
c.8. Scope of Civil Service
Art. IX, B, sec. 2(1)
c.9. Review of Decisions
Art. IX, A, sec. 7
c.10. Fiscal Autonomy
Art. IX, A, sec. 5

20
XI. NATIONAL COMMISSIONS
A. COMMISSION ON HUMAN RIGHTS (CHR)
a.1. Composition and Qualifications
Art. XIII, sec. 17
Bautista v. Salonga, supra
a.2. Powers and Functions
Art. XIII, sec. 18-19
Carino v. CHR, GR No. 96681, Dec. 2, 1991
EPZA v. CHR, 208 SCRA 125
Simon, Jr. v. CHR, 229 SCRA 117
a.3. Fiscal Autonomy
Art. XIII, sec. 17(4)

B. NATIONAL LANGUAGE COMMISSION

Art. XIV, sec. 9

C. NATIONAL POLICE COMMISSION

Art. XVI, sec. 6

D. COMMISSION ON INDIGENOUS CULTURAL COMMUNITIES

Art. XVI, sec. 12

XII. LOCAL GOVERNMENTS

-Art. X, 1987 Constitution
A. Local Autonomy
-Art. II, sec. 25
-Art. X, sec. 2
-Limbona v. Mangelin, 170 SCRA 786, 794-795 (1989)
-Magtajas v. Pryce Properties, 234 SCRA 255 (1994)
-Lina, Jr. v. Paño, GR. No. 129093, Aug. 30, 2001
-San Juan v. Civil Service Commission, 196 SCRA 69 (1991)
-Laguna Lake Devt. Authority v. Court of Appeals, GR. Nos. 120865-71, Dec.
7, 1995

B. General Supervision of local government by the President and hierarchal

relation among local units.
Art. X, sec. 4
Art. X, sec. 16
-Drilon v. Lim, 235 SCRA 135, 141 (1994)
-Guanzon v. CA, 200 SCRA 271 (1991)

C. Local Government Code

Art. X, sec. 3
-“decentralization” defined
-“Initiative and referendum” defined
-Garcia v. Comelec, 237 SCRA 279, 290 (1994)
-“recall”, defined
-Garcia v. Comelec, 227 SCRA 100 (1993)

D. Municipal Power of Taxation and Sources of Revenue

Art. X, sec. 5
21
 -Basco v. PAGCOR, 197 SCRA 52, 65 (1991)
-Manila Electric Company v. Province of Laguna, GR. No. 131359, May
5, 1999
-Phil. Petroleum Corp. v. Mun. of Pililla, Rizal 198 SCRA 82 (1991)
-Mactan Cebu International Airport Authority v. Marcos, GR. No.
120082, Sept. 11, 1996
-Manila International Airport Authority v. CA, GR. No. 155650, July 20,
2006
-City Govt. of Quezon City v. Bayan Telecom, Inc. GR. No. 162015,
March 6, 2006
-Digital Telecom Phils. v. Pangasinan GR. No. 152534, Feb. 23, 2007

F. Share in National taxes

Art. X, sec. 6
-Pimentel v. Aguirre, GR. No. 132988, July 19, 2000

G. Share in the proceed of National wealth

Art. X, sec. 7

H. Terms of office of local officials, except barangay officials

Art. X, sec.8 (Three years)
Art. XVIII, sec. 1
-Borja, Jr. v. Commission on Elections, GR. No. 133495, Sept. 3, 1998
-Lonzanida v. Comelec, GR. No. 135150, July 28, 1999
-Adormeo v. Comelec GR no. 147927, Feb. 4, 2002
-Socrates v. Comelec, GR. No. 154512, 154683, 155083-84, Nov. 12,
2002
-Latasa v. Comelec, GR. No. 154829, Dec. 10, 2003, En Banc
-Francis Ong v. Joseph Stanley Alegre, GR. No. 163295, Jan. 3, 2006

I. Terms of office of barangay officials

Art. X, sec. 8
Republic Act. 8524 (Five years)
“hold over” principle
-Sambarani v. COMELEC, GR. No. 160427, Sept. 15, 2004

J. Local legislative bodies; Sectoral Representation

Art. X, sec. 9

K. Creation, abolition, division, merger, and substantial change in boundary of

local government units
Art. X, sec. 10
-Tan v. COMELEC, 142 SCRA 727 (1986)
-Padilla v. Comelec, 214 SCRA 735
-Lopez v. Comelec, 136 SCRA 633
-Sultan Osop Camid v. Office of the President, GR. NO. 161414, Jan. 17,
2005
-League of Cities of the Phils. v. Comelec GR. No. 176951, Nov. 18, 2008
(en banc)

L. Metropolitan political subdivisions

22
 Art. X, sec. 11
-MMDA v. Bel-Air Village, GR. No. 135962, March 2, 2000

M. Classification cities; Right to vote

Art. X, sec.12
-Abella v. Comelec, 201 SCRA 253 (1991)

N. Coordination of efforts, services and resources for common benefit; Regional

Development Councils
Art. X, sec. 13
Art. X, sec. 14

O.The Autonomous Regions

1. Creation
Art. X, sec. 15
Id., sec. 18
Id., sec. 19
-Tan v. Comelec, 142 SCRA 727 (1986)
-Abbas v. Comelec, 179 SCRA 287, 300-301 (1989)
-Ordillo v. Comelec, 192 SCRA 100 (1990)

2. Powers of Autonomous regions

Art. X, sec. 20
Id., sec. 17
Id., sec. 21

3. General supervision by the President over autonomous regions

Art. X, sec. 16

XIII. NATIONAL ECONOMY AND PATRIMONY

-Art. XII, 1987 Constitution

A. POLICY (sec. 1)
Cruz v. Sec. of DENR, 347 SCRA 728
B. NATURAL RESOURCES
b.1. Regalian Doctrine
Lee Hong Kok v. David, 48 SCRA 372
b.2. Citizenship Requirement
Art. XII, secs. 2 and 7
b.3. “The Grandfather Rule” in corporation

C. CLASSIFICATION, SIZE, CONDITIONS FOR GRANT OF PUBLIC LANDS

(sec. 3)

D. PRIVATE LANDS
d.1. Citizenship Requirements (sec. 7)
Godinez v. Pak Luen, 120 SCRA 223
Tejido v. Zamacoma, 138 SCRA 78
d.2. Exceptions
d.2.1. Legal Succession
23
 Ramirez v. Vda de Remirez, 111 SCRA 704
d.2.2. Acquisition by former natural-born citizens (sec. 8)

E. ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES
e.1. Rationale (sec. 6, 12, 13)
e.2. Organization and Regulation of Private Corporations (sec. 16)
NADECO v. PVB, 192 SCRA 257
e.3. Operation of public utilities (sec. 11, 17, 18)
Albano v. Reyes, 175 SCRA 264
Republic v. PLDT, 26 SCRA 620
e.4. Filipinization
e.4.1. of mass media and advertising
Art. XVI, secs. 10, 11
Art. XVIII, sec. 23
e.4.2. practice of professions (sec. 14)

F. MONOPOLIES, COMBINATIONS AND UNFAIR COMPETITION (sec. 19)

Lagman v. Torres, 281 SCRA 330; 282 SCRA 337

24