Teofilo C. Villarico v. Vivencio Sarmiento

Summary

This case involves a property dispute where petitioner Villarico claimed right of way over government land and possession of a titled portion against respondents who constructed buildings on the disputed area. The RTC and CA ruled in favor of defendants' possession over government land while recognizing petitioner's right over his titled portion. The Supreme Court modified the decision, ruling that the government land is property of public dominion that cannot be possessed by either party, but confirmed petitioner's right to possess his registered property under T.C.T. No. 74430. The case establishes important principles about property of public dominion being outside commerce and not subject to private appropriation or easements.