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MOISES S. SAMSON v. ALEXANDER AGUIRRE

FACTS:

Petitioner Moises S. Samson, an incumbent councilor of the first district of Quezon City, questions the constitutionality of Republic Act No. 8535, which established the City of Novaliches from 15 barangays of Quezon City. According to the petitioner, the law failed to meet the criteria set forth in the Local Government Code regarding income, population, land area, and the absence of adverse effects on Quezon City. The petitioner contends that during the deliberations that led to the enactment of the law, certifications attesting to compliance with these requirements were not presented to Congress.

The respondents, represented by the Office of the Solicitor General, dispute the petitioner's claims. They argue that the petitioner has not provided sufficient evidence to support his allegations and that the burden of proof lies with him to overcome the presumption of validity afforded to the law.

The court examines whether the petitioner has successfully refuted the presumption of validity accorded to the law by presenting evidence to substantiate his assertions. Additionally, the court reviews the relevant provisions of the Local Government Code that specify the prerequisites for the establishment of a local government unit.

ISSUES:

  1. Whether or not Republic Act No. 8535 failed to conform to the criteria established by the Local Government Code.

  2. Whether or not the said law will in effect amend the Constitution.

RULING:

  1. The Court did not provide a ruling in this partial digest.

PRINCIPLES:

  • All presumptions are indulged in favor of constitutionality; one who attacks a statute, alleging unconstitutionality must prove its invalidity beyond a reasonable doubt.

  • Every statute is presumed valid and to have passed through regular congressional processes.

  • Compliance with the indicators of viability and projected capacity to provide services is required for the creation or conversion of a local government unit.

  • The requisites for the creation of a city include income, population, and land area requirements, which should be certified by relevant government agencies.