- Petitioner
- Ragudo
- Respondent
- Fabella Estate
- Citation
- G.R. No. 146823
- Court
- Supreme Court
- Division
- Third Division
- Ponente
- Garcia, J.
- Decided
- August 9, 2005
Summary
This case involves a dispute over possession of a 105-square meter portion of the Fabella Estate in Mandaluyong City. The Fabella Estate Tenants Association (FETA) became the registered owner of the entire property through a community mortgage program, but spouses Ragudo refused to join the association and continued occupying their portion. FETA filed for recovery of possession after failed unlawful detainer proceedings. The Ragudos claimed ownership through 40-year adverse possession and challenged FETA's title validity. The Supreme Court denied their petition, ruling that registered lands cannot be acquired by prescription under Article 1126 of the Civil Code and that the registered owner's right to recover possession from tolerated occupants is never barred by laches. The Court also held that clients are bound by counsel's mistakes in failing to present evidence during trial, absent gross negligence causing denial of due process.