Case Summary (G.R. No. L-44062)
Factual Background
The petitioners occupied premises at Arellano University in Manila from 1945 to 1950. Following their relocation by municipal authorities to certain parcels of land in Quezon City, nominal rents were paid to the Philippine Board of Liquidators, during which time the petitioners filed applications seeking to purchase the lots they had occupied. In 1964, these lots were sold to Wellington Ty & Bros., Inc. after being bartered for another property. When the new owner demanded that the petitioners vacate, they refused, asserting their rights to the land and subsequently filing a petition for declaratory relief.
Legal Proceedings and Claims
The petitioners subsequently filed a petition for declaratory relief and cancellation of title in the Court of First Instance. They claimed that they were bona fide occupants entitled to a preferential right to purchase the lots based on allegations of fraud and misrepresentation by Wellington Ty & Bros., Inc. The respondent filed motions to dismiss, asserting defenses such as lack of jurisdiction and the indefeasibility of their title under the Land Registration Act.
Decision of the Court
The trial court's findings included affirming the legitimacy of the barter agreement and stating that the petitioners were considered squatters, without any legitimate claim or preferential right over the disputed lots. The appellate court supported the lower court's decision, emphasizing that the argument of preferential right based on R.A. 3348 was without merit, as it came into effect only after the lots had already been sold to Carmen Planas.
Legal Principles and Authority
The ruling referenced various legal provisions, including the Philippine Property Act of 1946, Executive Orders, and R.A. 477, clarifying that the Philippine Board of Liquidators properly conducted the transfer of the property. The court determined that the petitioners had no rights to the properties occupied s
...continue readingCase Syllabus (G.R. No. L-44062)
Overview of the Case
- This case involves an appeal by petitioners-appellants Pablo L. Mirando and others against respondents-appellees Wellington Ty & Bros., Inc. and the Philippine Board of Liquidators.
- The appeal was certified to the Supreme Court by the Court of Appeals as it raised only questions of law.
- The case revolves around the occupancy and purported rights of the petitioners over certain lots that were sold to the private respondents.
Factual Background
- Following the liberation of Manila in 1945, the petitioners occupied premises of Arellano University from 1945 to 1950.
- To address public health issues and the university’s needs, Manila Mayor Manuel dela Fuente secured approval from Quezon City Mayor Ignacio Santos Diaz to relocate squatters to Lots 1 and 2, Block No. 3 of designated subdivisions.
- These lots were previously owned by Arata Tuitsue, a Japanese enemy alien, which led to the Philippine Alien Property Custodian and the Board of Liquidators taking possession of the properties.
- The petitioners constructed homes on these lots and paid nominal rentals while applying to purchase the lots from the Board of Liquidators.
- In 1953, the Board of Liquidators bartered the lots with another property owned by Carmen Planas.
- On December 8, 1964, the estate of Carmen Planas sold the lots to Wellington Ty & Bros., Inc. and a title was issued in their name.
- The private respondents demanded the petitioners vacate the premises, leading to an ejectment proceeding initiated by W