FACTS:
Petitioner Luz B. Palattao-Corpuz and respondent Jose P. Lopez, Jr. both worked at the Child and Youth Research Center (CYRC) under the Department of Education, Culture and Sports (DECS). Lopez opposed Corpuz's appointment as CYRC director, resulting in multiple cases filed against Corpuz and/or some CYRC staff. Most of these cases were dismissed except for one that was pending before the Ombudsman. During this time, Lopez was temporarily detailed to the MECS Legal Office before being transferred to the Planning Service Office of the MECS.
The employees of CYRC raised complaints of harassment by Lopez, which led to resignations and a letter addressed to the Education Minister. Despite his transfer, Lopez resumed his position as CYRC assistant director without proper authorization. In response, Corpuz issued memoranda stating that Lopez would not be considered an active member of the staff without the necessary authorization. Lopez challenged this and Corpuz maintained her position. As a result, Lopez filed a petition for mandamus with damages against Corpuz. Initially, Minister Laya was included as a defendant in the case, but he was later dropped from the petition.
ISSUES:
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Whether or not petitioner Corpuz should take official cognizance of the attendance of respondent Lopez at the Child and Youth Research Center (CYRC) and pay his salaries and benefits.
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Whether or not respondent Lopez is entitled to damages.
RULING:
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Yes, petitioner Corpuz is ordered to take official cognizance of the attendance of respondent Lopez at the CYRC and pay his salaries and benefits from 23 April 1985 "to date".
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The case is remanded to the trial court for further proceedings on the issue of damages.
PRINCIPLES:
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Mandamus is a remedy used to compel the performance of a ministerial duty by a government officer or agency.
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In order to be entitled to salaries and benefits, an employee must comply with the employer's directive and submit the necessary requirements, such as attendance records or leave applications.