Case Summary (G.R. No. 208535)
Factual Antecedents
Laarne Densing was initially hired by Kimwa on January 2, 2002, and later appointed as Administrative Officer on July 4, 2005. Tensions arose when Densing signed a contract with Pepsi Products Philippines, Inc., which she claimed was authorized by her manager, Leo Lua. Allegations surfaced concerning dishonesty involving the misaccounting of soft drink donations and unauthorized personal charges to the company account.
Ruling of the Executive Labor Arbiter
The Executive Labor Arbiter dismissed Densing's complaint for illegal dismissal on November 20, 2007, citing valid grounds for her termination based on loss of trust and confidence. He, however, awarded her P15,000.00 as separation pay, acknowledging her good faith in signing the contract with Pepsi.
Ruling of the National Labor Relations Commission
The NLRC reversed the Arbiter's decision on November 28, 2008, declaring Densing's dismissal illegal. It found insufficient evidence to support the claims against her, concluding that she had acted in accordance with her job duties and did not commit acts warranting dismissal.
Subsequent Appeals
Petitioners sought reconsideration, leading to the NLRC's June 4, 2009 decision, which reversed its prior ruling and upheld Densing's dismissal. This oscillating judgment arose from differing interpretations of her authority and actions.
Ruling of the Court of Appeals
On November 27, 2012, the Court of Appeals reinstated the NLRC's original finding of illegal dismissal, underscoring that the petitioners failed to demonstrate substantial evidence against Densing. The Court affirmed that there was insufficient justification for her termination due to lack of malicious intent or previous infractions.
Petitioners’ Arguments and Core Issues
Petitioners contended that the Court of Appeals made erroneous conclusions regarding the ownership of the establishments and asserted that grounds for dismissal were substantiated. They argued for a reevaluation of their loss of trust claim and challenged the imposition of moral and exemplary damages.
Respondent’s Counterarguments
Densing maintained that she was not guilty of a willful breach of trust, emphasizing her good faith actions and the absence of personal gain from her dealings concerning Pepsi. She highlighted the lack of harm to the company resulting from her actions.
Court’s Ruling on the Petition
The Supreme Court upheld the Court of Appeals’ decision, affirming the view that the petitioners failed to prov
...continue readingCase Syllabus (G.R. No. 208535)
Background of the Case
- This case concerns a Petition for Review en Certiorari filed by petitioners Leo's Restaurant and Bar Cafe, Mountain Suite Business Apartelle, Leo Y. Lua, and Amelia Lua against respondent Laarne C. Bensing.
- The petition challenges the November 27, 2012 Decision of the Court of Appeals (CA) which annulled the June 4, 2009, and July 31, 2009 Resolutions of the National Labor Relations Commission (NLRC).
- The CA reinstated the NLRC Resolution dated November 28, 2008, which found respondent's dismissal illegal.
Factual Antecedents
- Employment History:
- Respondent was employed as a liaison officer by Kimwa Construction & Development Corporation (Kimwa) on January 2, 2002.
- On July 4, 2005, she was appointed as Administrative Officer/Human Resource (HR) Head for Leo's Restaurant and Bar Cafe and Mountain Suite Business Apartelle.
- Accusations and Dismissal:
- Respondent received a memorandum on December 30, 2005, from Leo Y. Lua, requiring an explanation regarding her signing of a contract with Pepsi without authority.
- Respondent maintained that she had verbal authorization from Leo to sign the contract.
- Following a series of memoranda and explanations, Leo terminated her employment on January 12, 2006, citing loss of trust and confidence.
Legal Proceedings
- Initial Complaint:
- Respondent filed an Amended Compla