Vicente Rellosa v. Gonzalo Pellosis

Summary

This case involves the premature demolition of lessees' houses before a demolition order became final and executory. Respondents were long-term lessees who built houses on land later sold to petitioner Ortega. After obtaining a demolition order from the Building Official, petitioners immediately proceeded with demolition just one day after respondents received notice, and continued despite respondents filing an appeal within the 15-day period. The Supreme Court applied Article 19 of the Civil Code (abuse of rights doctrine), holding that while petitioners had a valid demolition order, implementing it before the appeal period expired violated respondents' legal right to contest the ruling. The Court affirmed the award of damages but reduced the amounts to reasonable levels, emphasizing that exercising property rights must comply with standards of justice, honesty, and good faith.