Paz Samaniego-Celada v. Lucia D. Abena

Summary

The Supreme Court upheld the probate of Margarita S. Mayores' will against challenges by her first cousin. Margarita, who died without direct heirs, left a will bequeathing properties to her lifelong companion Lucia Abena and designating her as executor. The cousin contested the will's validity, claiming formal defects, undue influence, and her right as legal heir. All three court levels - RTC, Court of Appeals, and Supreme Court - rejected these challenges. The Supreme Court ruled that the issues raised were questions of fact not reviewable on certiorari, and that since the cousins were not compulsory heirs and the will was validly executed, they had no legal right to the estate. The decision demonstrates the courts' application of liberal interpretation in probate proceedings and protection of testamentary freedom when formal requirements are substantially complied with.