Legal or Intestate Succession, also called Intestacy, is a mode of succession which generally takes place when a person (“decedent”) dies without a will. Under this mode, it is the law which will dictate the proper distribution of the decedent’s whole estate. Heirs who inherit under legal or intestate succession are called “intestate heirs.”

In the case of Macalinao vs. Macalinao, G.R. No. 250613, April 3, 2024, the Supreme Court has ruled that benefits arising from the seafarer’s death under the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) contract should be awarded only to the surviving legitimate spouse, despite being long estranged from the seafarer, alongside the seafarer’s legitimate and illegitimate children.

xxx it is clear that the general rule is that an illegitimate child shall use the surname of his or her mother. The exception provided by RA 9255 is, in case his or her filiation is expressly recognized by the father through the record of birth appearing in the civil register or when an admission in a public document or private handwritten instrument is made by the father. In such a situation, the illegitimate child may use the surname of the father. (Grace Grande v. Antonio, G.R. No. 206248, February 18, 2014)

Corporations offer a range of advantages, including limited liability, access to capital, perpetual existence, enhanced credibility, and the ability to attract talent. However, they also come with drawbacks such as complexity, double taxation, regulatory burdens, potential conflicts of interest, and reduced personal control.

“Donations made to conceived and unborn children may be accepted by those persons who would legally represent them if they were already born.” (Article 742, Civil Code of the Philippines)