University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center v. Henry Actub Yañez

Summary

Dr. Henry Yañez, a faculty member and Industrial Medicine Division Head at University of the East, claimed entitlement to 200% retirement benefits under the 1982 Retirement Plan versus the 100% benefits awarded under the 2004 plan, and sought income participation in his division's profits. The Supreme Court affirmed his right to the higher retirement benefits based on the non-diminution rule, finding substantial evidence of the 1982 plan's existence and that the 2004 amendments unlawfully reduced established benefits. However, the Court denied his income participation claims due to insufficient competent evidence of such arrangement or the division's actual income. The Court restored the attorney's fees award, ruling that Dr. Yañez was compelled to litigate to protect his legitimate employment rights and interests, warranting compensation for litigation expenses incurred.