Flora Inson v. Agustin Belzunce

Summary

Flora Inson sued Agustin Belzunce for breach of promise to marry and sought damages. The Court of First Instance of Iloilo dismissed the case, finding the alleged marriage contract illegal and contrary to good morals. On appeal, the Supreme Court affirmed, holding that the promise to marry was based on immoral and illegal considerations - specifically, that the plaintiff agreed to live with defendant as consideration for his promise to marry her. The Court applied Civil Code provisions stating that contracts based on unlawful consideration are null and void, and that neither party to an illegal intercourse can claim damages against the other. The decision established that promises of marriage founded upon carnal connection cannot be legally enforced, as they violate public morals and legal principles governing valid contracts.