Allan C. Go v. Mortimer F. Cordero

Summary

This case involves the breach of an exclusive distributorship agreement and tortious interference with contractual relations. Mortimer Cordero was appointed exclusive distributor for AFFA catamaran vessels in the Philippines. After successfully negotiating the sale of vessels to Allan Go's ACG Express Liner, Go and his lawyers Landicho and Tecson bypassed Cordero and dealt directly with AFFA, resulting in non-payment of Cordero's remaining commission and termination of his distributorship. The Supreme Court applied the doctrine of tortious interference under Article 1314 of the Civil Code, finding that defendants acted with malice and bad faith in violating Cordero's contractual rights. The Court held all defendants solidarily liable as joint tort feasors, affirming their obligation to pay the unpaid commission balance plus damages. The decision reinforced the principle that third parties who induce breach of contract without legal justification are liable for damages, and emphasized the duty under Article 19 to exercise rights with justice, honesty and good faith.