Roger Manzano v. Luz Despabiladeras

Summary

This case involves collection of unpaid balance for construction materials delivered on credit, with significant procedural implications regarding Rule 26 on Request for Admission. Petitioner Manzano delivered materials worth P314,610.50 to respondent Despabiladeras for her construction project, receiving partial payment of P130,000.00. When petitioner filed Request for Admission, respondent failed to file required sworn denial, leading to deemed admission of facts. The Supreme Court clarified that Request for Admission under Rule 26 operates independently from pre-trial stipulations and that failure to comply results in deemed admission. The Court credited all actual payments received (P252,000.00 total) but rejected the Court of Appeals' finding of full payment, ordering payment of remaining P62,610.50 plus legal interest while deleting attorney's fees for lack of legal basis.