Sps. Melchor v. Sps. Bbb

Summary

This Supreme Court case involves the liability of Spouses Melchor and Yolanda Dorao for harassing and publicly humiliating AAA, a 14-year-old minor who was in a relationship with their son Paul. The Dorao Spouses repeatedly called AAA derogatory names such as 'malandi' (flirt) and 'makati ang laman' (sexually aggressive) in public at school, causing severe psychological trauma, academic decline, depression, and a suicide attempt. The Regional Trial Court and Court of Appeals found the Dorao Spouses liable for violating AAA's dignity, personality, privacy, and peace of mind under Articles 21 and 26 of the Civil Code. The Supreme Court affirmed the decision, emphasizing that such acts constitute child psychological abuse under RA 7610 and violate constitutional protections for children. The Court awarded PHP30,000 moral damages, PHP20,000 exemplary damages, and PHP30,000 attorney's fees, with 6% legal interest per annum. The decision reinforces that the best interests of children cannot justify cruel or degrading treatment that conflicts with human dignity.