Legally protected

[Keeps Trouble Away] JOSE C. SISON

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This case deals with whether the legitimacy and filiation of a child can be questioned as a side issue in another case.

Carmel, the widow of Carlos, lived on a farm that had been tenanted by her husband since 1936. The property, a 4,527-square meter lot, was originally owned by Ernie’s parents. Over the years, Carlos and Carmel improved the land by planting fruit trees, seasonal crops and building a house.

After the death of Ernie’s parents, the land was inherited by Ernie and his sisters, Fiona and Aleya. Originally, the title was only in the names of the sisters. In May 1993, Aleya voluntarily executed a lease contract with Carlos, confirming the tenancy over the land, known as the Kasunduang Buwisan sa Sakahan.