Question & AnswerQ&A (Act No. 665)
It amends Section 241 of Act No. 190, the Code of Procedure in Civil Actions and Special Proceedings, to include the use of land for military posts for United States forces as 'public use' under eminent domain.
The Act expands the definition of 'public use' to include the construction and maintenance of military posts occupied by United States forces stationed in the Philippine Islands.
Actions can be instituted in the name and on behalf of the Philippine Insular Government or the Government of the United States, upon direction by the President, Secretary of War, or the Commanding General of the U.S. Army in the Philippines.
The Philippine Government can acquire indefeasible title to the land and may transfer it to the United States forever by a deed executed by the Civil Governor in accordance with a resolution of the Philippine Commission.
The court may order payment of damages into court to remain until the land is brought under the Land Registration Act, then parties must perfect their claims in the Court of Land Registration within a fixed period or lose their claims.
If claims are not perfected within the court-designated time, those interests and titles shall be adjudged invalid and barred forever.
The court hearing the condemnation proceedings may extend the time for good cause shown.
The court shall award damages to those with established rights, adjudge that no other parties have interest, and bar all other claims forever.
Such action may be instituted upon the direction of the President of the United States, the Secretary of War, or upon application of the Commanding General of the U.S. Army in the Philippines.
The Act took effect upon its passage on March 5, 1903.