Case Summary (G.R. No. L-20160)
Factual Background
The minor, Baby Go, was registered under this name by representatives of the Cebu Maternity Hospital without any involvement or consent from his parents. Gregorio Go desired to change this designation to "Albert Go," a name he believed to be more appropriate and reflective of Christian naming practices, as "Baby" is not considered a Christian name.
Court's Initial Decision
The Court of First Instance found merit in the petition, approving the requested name change. The ruling stated that the court authorized the alteration of Baby Go's name to Albert Go, formally changing his name in legal records.
Appeal and Legal Grounds
Following this, the Solicitor General, representing the Republic, appealed the decision on the grounds that the lower court's approval of the name change violated Article 408 of the New Civil Code and Section 10 of Act No. 3753. These legal provisions allow for the registration of name changes but prohibit alterations of original entries in the Civil Registry.
Legal Arguments Presented
The Solicitor General's primary argument was that the lower court had exceeded its jurisdiction by allowing the change of Baby Go's name, rendering the decision void. In defense, the appellee contended that if the Republic had raised concerns regarding the ruling promptly after its issuance on October 8, 1960, the matter could have been resolved without the need for an appeal.
Court's Consideration and Ruling
Upon review, the court found that there was satisfactory proof of a reasonable cause for the name change. The petition's allegations were deemed credible. Citing precedents from past cases, the court acknowledged the validity of changing a nam
...continue readingCase Syllabus (G.R. No. L-20160)
Case Overview
- This case involves an appeal from the Court of First Instance of Cebu, presided over by Hon. Amador E. Gomez, concerning the change of name of a minor, Baby Go, to Albert Go.
- The minor was registered under the name "Baby Go" at the Cebu Maternity Hospital without the parents' knowledge or consent to choose a proper name.
- The petitioner, Gregorio Go, seeks to adopt a Christian name as part of accepted Filipino Catholic practices, arguing that "Baby" is not a Christian name.
Facts of the Case
- Baby Go was born at Cebu Maternity Hospital and was registered in Cebu City's local civil registrar as "Baby Go."
- The name "Baby" was assigned without parental consent or the opportunity for the parents to select a more appropriate name.
- The Court of First Instance found the petition for the name change to be well-founded and authorized the change from Baby Go to Albert Go.
Appeal Process
- The Solicitor General, on behalf of the Republic of the Philippines, appealed the decision of the Court of First Instance, claiming it was frivolous.
- The appeal was init