Case Summary (G.R. No. 183239)
Background of the Case
This matter involves a petition for review on certiorari concerning a breach of contract claim filed by Gregorio De Leon in the RTC of Manila against Hercules Agro Industrial Corporation and Rumi Rungis Milk. The case was designated as Civil Case No. 98-89938. On September 23, 2005, the RTC issued a decision holding Rumi Rungis Milk liable for damages while dismissing the claims against the other respondents due to insufficient evidence.
Procedural Developments
After the RTC's decision, the petitioner sought a ten-day extension to file a motion for reconsideration, which the RTC denied, noting that the period for filing such motions is non-extendible. Following this, Rumi Rungis Milk filed a motion for reconsideration of the RTC's ruling, which was also subsequently denied. The petitioner attempted to file a notice of appeal, but the RTC refused to give it due course on the grounds that it was filed beyond the reglementary period.
Court of Appeals Decisions
The CA upheld the RTC's decision, asserting that the appeal was not legally entertainable since it was submitted late. The CA's resolution on January 7, 2008, ordered the appellant's brief to be struck from the records, thus rendering the appeal dismissed. The CA further clarified that any claims regarding overpayment of fees should be filed separately with the Chief Justice through the Court Administrator. Both parties' motions for reconsideration regarding the CA's decisions were denied.
Legal Analysis of Timeliness of Appeal
The issue at hand revolves around whether the CA erred in dismissing the appeal based on its timeliness. The records confirm that the petitioner did not perfect his appeal within the prescribed timeframe. The law mandates strict adherence to procedural rules regarding the timelines for appeals, specifically that appeals must be filed within the non-extendable period following a judgment to remain valid. The failure to comply with this requirement renders the judgment final and executory.
Conclusion on Appeal Rights
The Supreme Court found no merit in the petitioner's as
...continue readingCase Syllabus (G.R. No. 183239)
Background of the Case
- The case is a petition for review on certiorari challenging the resolutions issued by the Court of Appeals (CA) on January 7, 2008, and June 2, 2008.
- The petitioner, Gregorio De Leon, doing business as G.D.L. Marketing, initiated an action against Hercules Agro Industrial Corporation, represented by Jesus Chua, and Rumi Rungis Milk for breach of contract, seeking damages and a writ of preliminary attachment.
- The case was filed in the Regional Trial Court (RTC) of Manila, designated as Civil Case No. 98-89938 and assigned to Branch 20.
Procedural History
- A trial took place, and on September 23, 2005, the RTC rendered a decision holding Rumi Rungis Milk liable for various damages, while dismissing the case against Hercules Agro Industrial Corporation and Jesus Chua due to lack of evidence.
- The RTC ordered Rumi Rungis Milk to pay the following:
- $142,080 at a conversion rate of P26.41 to a dollar, plus legal interest.
- P100,000 in attorney's fees.
- P477,622 for customs duties and taxes.
- P6,358.40 for milk analysis fees.
- Petitioner filed a Motion for Time to extend the period for filing a motion for reconsideration, which the RTC denied, citing the non-extendibility of such a motion.
Key Events Post-RTC Decision
- On November 2, 2005, Rumi Rungis Milk filed its