Marciano Blanco v. Felimon Rivera

Summary

This case involves a double sale of the same residential property by a mother to her two sons at different times. Petitioner Marciano Blanco claimed ownership based on an earlier 1977 unregistered sale, while respondent Felimon Rivera acquired the property through a 1980 registered sale. The Supreme Court applied Article 1544 of the Civil Code, which gives priority to the buyer who first registers in good faith. The Court found that respondent was the first to register without knowledge of the prior sale, thus acquiring valid title. Petitioner was also found guilty of laches for failing to assert his rights for 14 years. The decision reinforces the principle that in double sales of immovable property, registration coupled with good faith determines ownership, and that buyers must act diligently to protect their interests through proper legal remedies.