Facts:

• The case involves the Manila Railroad Company (petitioner) and the Workmen's Compensation Commission along with Ricardo Balmeo (respondents).
• Ricardo Balmeo began working as a temporary trackman on July 1, 1958, after passing a pre-employment physical examination.
• He was appointed as a permanent trackman on August 16, 1960, with an annual salary of P1,500.
• His job involved physically demanding tasks, including lifting iron rails and working in harsh weather conditions.
• On January 11, 1961, Balmeo was diagnosed with pulmonary tuberculosis after an X-ray examination.
• Despite his illness, he continued working until his dismissal on June 16, 1961.
• Balmeo filed a claim for disability compensation on October 10, 1961, after being dismissed.
• The Manila Railroad Company contested the claim, submitting an employer's report on November 10, 1961.
• A hearing officer ruled in favor of Balmeo, awarding him compensation benefits.
• The Manila Railroad Company appealed to the Workmen's Compensation Commission, which affirmed the hearing officer's decision on July 15, 1963.
• The company's motion for reconsideration was denied on August 23, 1963.

Issue:

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Ruling:

• The Supreme Court dismissed the Manila Railroad Company's petition for review.
• The Court affirmed the decision of the Workmen's Compensation Commission, confirming its jurisdiction over Balmeo's claim.
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Ratio:

• The Court emphasized that failure to comply with notice and filing requirements under Section 24 of Act 3428 does not create a jurisdictional defect.
• If the employer is aware of the employee's illness or injury, the lack of timely notice does not prevent the claim for compensation....continue reading