619-Valdez Vs Tabisula
619-Valdez Vs Tabisula
On the Deed of Absolute Sale, there is a stipulation which states that Valdez However, Valdez and their family are also the owners of two
“shall be provided a 2 1/2 meters wide road right-of-way on the western side properties adjoining the subject property which have access to two public
roads or highways.
of their lot but which is not included in this sale.”
Since Valdez then have more than adequate passage to two public roads,
Subsequently, Tabisula built a concrete wall on the western side of the
they have no right to demand the grant by respondents of an easement on
property. Believing that that side is the intended road right of way mentioned
the "western side of Tabisula’s lot."
in the deed, Valdez filed a Complaint for Specific Performance with
Damages against Tabisula. He prayed that Tabisula be ordered to provide
the subject property with a 2½-meter wide easement and to remove the Moreover, the creek on the south is now a barangay road by which Valdez
concrete wall blocking the same. could access the street.
Ruling: No.
Under Article 619 of the Civil Code, there are two kinds of easements
according to source – by law (legal) or by the will of the owners (voluntary).
It is clear that what Valdez seeks to enforce is an alleged grant in the deed
by Tabisula of an easement, or a voluntary easement.
The proviso that the intended grant of right of way is "not included in this
sale" could only mean that they would have to enter into a separate and
distinct agreement for the purpose. The use of the word "shall," should be
construed as merely permissive where, as in the case at bar, no public
benefit or private right requires it to be given an imperative meaning.