UP

RE

ME COU

2016 Revised Rules of Procedure for Small Claims Cases

T HE PH

IP

BL

BATA
S A T BAYAN

OF

PI

N ES

RE PU
IC

IL

Republic of the Philippines

Supreme Court
Manila

A.M. No. 08-8-7-SC

THE 2016 REVISED RULES

OF PROCEDURE FOR
SMALL CLAIMS CASES
EFFECTIVE FEBRUARY 1, 2016

MANILA, PHILIPPINES
JANUARY 2016

65

896

PHILIPPINE REPORTS
Page

2016 Revised Rules of Procedure for Small Claims Cases

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page

Resolution ......................................................................................... 3-6

The 2016 Revised Rules of Procedure
for Small Claims Cases .............................................................7-15
Form 1-SCC Statement of Claim ............................................... 16-23
Form 1-A-SCC Verification and Certification
Against Non-Forum Shopping, Splitting a
Single Cause of Action and Multiplicity of Suits .................... 24-25
Form 2-SCC Summons ............................................................. 26-27
Form 3-SCC Response ............................................................. 28-31
Form 4-SCC Notice of Hearing ................................................ 32-33
Form 5-SCC Plaintiffs Return/Manifestation ............................... 34
Form 5-A-SCC Plaintiffs Return/Manifestation
(Substituted Service) ................................................................... 35
Form 6-SCC Motion to Plead as Indigent ................................. 36-37
Form 7-SCC Special Power of Attorney ....................................... 38
Form 8-SCC Joint Motion (for Dismissal) ................................ 39-40
Form 9-SCC Motion for Approval of
Compromise Agreement ............................................................. 41
Form 10-SCC Decision
(Based on Compromise Agreement) ..................................... 42-43
Form 11-SCC Decision ............................................................. 44-45

A.M. No. 08-8-7-SC

Page

Form 12-SCC Motion for Execution ......................................... 46-47

Comparative Study Between the 2008 Rules and
the 2016 Revised Rules ........................................................... 48-64

UP

RE

ME COU

R
T

2016 Revised Rules of Procedure for Small Claims Cases

T HE PH

IP

BL

BATA
S A T BAYAN

OF

PI

N ES

RE PU

IC

IL

Republic of the Philippines

Supreme Court
Manila

A.M. No. 08-8-7-SC

THE RULES OF PROCEDURE
FOR SMALL CLAIMS CASES

RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, after a two-year pilot test, on March 18, 2010, the
Rules of Procedure for Small Claims Cases was promulgated and made
effective to all first level courts nationwide;
WHEREAS, from the time the Rules of Procedure for Small
Claims Cases was implemented, it has been found to be an effective tool
in providing a simplified and inexpensive recourse for litigants to assert
their claims;
WHEREAS, due to its success, there is a need to introduce
amendments to the existing Rules to be more effective in reducing the
dockets of the first level courts, a wider coverage, and better access to
the courts by the underprivileged, among others;
WHEREAS, on August 11, 2015, the Special Committee on Small
Claims Cases (Committee) was created under Memorandum Order
No. 32-2015 to review the existing Rules of Procedure for Small
Claims Cases to fulfill the Judiciarys objective of expediting trial and
resolving cases effectively and efficiently.
3

A.M. No. 08-8-7-SC

WHEREAS, the Committee is composed of the following:
Chairperson:

Hon. Diosdado M. Peralta

Associate Justice, Supreme Court

Vice-Chairperson:

Hon. Lucas P. Bersamin

Associate Justice, Supreme Court

Members:

Hon. Martin S. Villarama, Jr.

Associate Justice, Supreme Court
Hon. Jose C. Mendoza
Associate Justice, Supreme Court
Hon. Estela M. Perlas-Bernabe
Associate Justice, Supreme Court
Hon. Jose Midas P. Marquez
Court Administrator, Supreme Court
Hon. Fernanda Lampas Peralta
Associate Justice, Court of Appeals
Hon. Jackie B. Crisologo-Saguisag
Metropolitan Trial Court, Makati City, Branch 67
Atty. Ma. Lourdes E.B. Oliveros
Office of the Chief Justice

Secretary:

Atty. Jason J. Zapanta

Office of Associate Justice Diosdado M. Peralta

Assistant Secretary: Atty. Jilliane Joyce R. De Dumo

Office of the Chief Justice

WHEREAS, to aid the Committee in reviewing pending issues on

the Rules of Procedure for Small Claims Cases, a Technical Working
Group (TWG) was created as follows:
Chairperson:

Hon. Fernanda Lampas Peralta

Associate Justice, Court of Appeals

Members:

Hon. Jackie B. Crisologo-Saguisag

Metropolitan Trial Court, Makati City, Branch 67
Hon. Juris D. Dilinila-Callanta
Metropolitan Trial Court, Quezon City, Branch 42

2016 Revised Rules of Procedure for Small Claims Cases

Hon. Maria Zoraida S. Zabat-Tuazon

Metropolitan Trial Court, Manila City, Branch 23
Atty. Joachim Florencio Q. Corsiga
Office of the Court Administrator

WHEREAS, the Committee and the TWG conducted several

consultative meetings, tackling issues such as the threshold amount,
causes of action, and venue, among others;
WHEREAS, on November 10, 2015, the Committee and the TWG
submitted its proposed The Revised Rules of Procedure for Small
Claims Cases, to protect and advance the constitutional rights of
persons to a speedy disposition of their cases, provide a simplified and
inexpensive procedure for the disposition of small claims cases, and,
introduce innovations and best practices for the benefit of the
underprivileged;
WHEREAS, acting on the recommendation of the Chairperson,
the Committee, and the TWG, submitting for the consideration and
approval of the Court the proposed The Revised Rules of Procedure
for Small Claims Cases, the Court resolved to APPROVE the same.
The Revised Rules shall take effect on February 1, 2016 following
its publication in two (2) newspapers of general circulation.
December 8, 2015.

MARIA LOURDES P. A. SERENO

Chief Justice

ANTONIO T. CARPIO
Associate Justice

PRESBITERO J. VELASCO, JR.

Associate Justice

TERESITA J. LEONARDO-DE CASTRO

Associate Justice

On official leave
ARTURO D. BRION
Associate Justice

A.M. No. 08-8-7-SC

DIOSDADO M. PERALTA
Associate Justice

LUCAS P. BERSAMIN
Associate Justice

MARIANO C. DEL CASTILLO

Associate Justice

MARTIN S. VILLARAMA, JR.

Associate Justice

JOSE PORTUGAL PEREZ

Associate Justice

JOSE CATRAL MENDOZA

Associate Justice

BIENVENIDO L. REYES
Associate Justice

ESTELA M. PERLAS-BERNABE
Associate Justice

MARVIC M.V.F. LEONEN

Associate Justice

FRANCIS H. JARDELEZA
Associate Justice

2016 Revised Rules of Procedure for Small Claims Cases

THE 2016 REVISED RULES OF PROCEDURE

FOR SMALL CLAIMS CASES
SECTION 1. Title. These Rules shall be known as The Revised
Rules of Procedure for Small Claims Cases.
SEC. 2. Scope. These Rules shall govern the procedure in actions
before the Metropolitan Trial Courts (MeTCs), Municipal Trial Courts
in Cities (MTCCs), Municipal Trial Courts (MTCs) and Municipal Circuit
Trial Courts (MCTCs) for payment of money where the value of the
claim does not exceed Two Hundred Thousand Pesos (P200,000.00)
exclusive of interest and costs.
SEC. 3. Objectives
(a)

To protect and advance the constitutional right of persons to

a speedy disposition of their cases;

(b)

To provide a simplified and inexpensive procedure for the

disposition of small claims cases; and,

(c)

To introduce innovations and best practices for the benefit of

the underprivileged.

SEC. 4. Definition of Terms. For purposes of this Rule:

(a)

Plaintiff refers to the party who initiated a small claims

action. The term includes a defendant who has filed a
counterclaim against plaintiff;

(b)

Defendant is the party against whom the plaintiff has filed

a small claims action. The term includes a plaintiff against
whom a defendant has filed a claim, or a person who replies
to the claim;

(c)

Person is an individual, corporation, partnership, limited liability

partnership, association, or other juridical entity endowed
with personality by law;

(d)

Individual is a natural person;

A.M. No. 08-8-7-SC

(e)

Motion means a partys request, written or oral, to the court

for an order or other action. It shall include an informal
written request to the court, such as a letter;

(f)

Good cause means circumstances sufficient to justify the

requested order or other action, as determined by the judge;
and,

(g)

Affidavit means a written statement or declaration of facts

that are sworn to or affirmed to be true.

SEC. 5. Applicability. The Metropolitan Trial Courts, Municipal

Trial Courts in Cities, Municipal Trial Courts, and Municipal Circuit Trial
Courts shall apply this Rule in all actions that are purely civil in nature
where the claim or relief prayed for by the plaintiff is solely for payment
or reimbursement of sum of money.
The claim or demand may be:
(a)

For money owed under any of the following:

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

Contract of Lease;
Contract of Loan;
Contract of Services;
Contract of Sale; or
Contract of Mortgage;

(b)

For liquidated damages arising from contracts;

(c)

The enforcement of a barangay amicable settlement or an

arbitration award involving a money claim covered by this
Rule pursuant to Sec. 417 of Republic Act 7160, otherwise
known as The Local Government Code of 1991.

SEC. 6. Commencement of Small Claims Action. A small claims

action is commenced by filing with the court an accomplished and
verified Statement of Claim (Form 1-SCC) in duplicate, accompanied
by a Certification Against Forum Shopping, Splitting a Single Cause of
Action, and Multiplicity of Suits (Form 1-A-SCC), and two (2) duly
certified photocopies of the actionable document/s subject of the claim,
as well as the affidavits of witnesses and other evidence to support the
claim. No evidence shall be allowed during the hearing which was not
attached to or submitted together with the Statement of Claim, unless
good cause is shown for the admission of additional evidence.

2016 Revised Rules of Procedure for Small Claims Cases

The plaintiff must state in the Statement of Claim if he/she/it is

engaged in the business of lending, banking and similar activities, and the
number of small claims cases filed within the calendar year regardless
of judicial station.
No formal pleading, other than the Statement of Claim/s described
in this Rule, is necessary to initiate a small claims action.
SEC. 7. Venue. The regular rules on venue shall apply.
However, if the plaintiff is engaged in the business of lending,
banking and similar activities, and has a branch within the municipality
or city where the defendant resides, the Statement of Claim/s shall be
filed where that branch is located.
SEC. 8. Joinder of Claims. Plaintiff may join in a single statement
of claim one or more separate small claims against a defendant provided
that the total amount claimed, exclusive of interest and costs, does not
exceed Two Hundred Thousand Pesos (P200,000.00).
SEC. 9. Affidavits. The affidavits submitted under this Rule
shall state only facts of direct personal knowledge of the affiants or
based on authentic records, which are admissible in evidence.
A violation of this requirement shall subject the party, and the
counsel who assisted the party in the preparation of the affidavits, if any,
to appropriate disciplinary action. The inadmissible affidavit(s) or
portion(s) thereof shall be expunged from the record.
The non-submission of the required affidavits will cause the
immediate dismissal of the claim or counterclaim.
SEC. 10. Payment of Filing Fees. The plaintiff shall pay the
docket and other legal fees prescribed under Rule 141 of the Revised
Rules of Court, unless allowed to litigate as an indigent. Exemption from
the payment of filing fees shall be granted only by the Supreme Court.
However, if more than five (5) small claims are filed by one party
within the calendar year, regardless of the judicial station, an additional
filing fee of 500.00 shall be paid for every claim filed after the fifth (5th)
claim, and an additional 100.00 or a total of 600.00 for every claim filed
after the tenth (10th) claim, and another 100.00 or a total of 700 for
every claim filed after the fifteenth (15th) claim, progressively and
cumulatively.

10

A.M. No. 08-8-7-SC

If the plaintiff is engaged in the business of banking, lending and

similar activities, the amount of filing and other legal fees shall be the
same as those applicable to cases filed under the regular rules.
A claim filed with a motion to sue as indigent (Form 6-SCC) shall
be referred to the Executive Judge for immediate action in case of multisala courts. If the motion is granted by the Executive Judge, the case
shall be raffled off or assigned to the court designated to hear small
claims cases. If the motion is denied, the plaintiff shall be given five (5)
days within which to pay the docket fees, otherwise, the case shall be
dismissed without prejudice. In no case shall a party, even if declared
an indigent, be exempt from the payment of the P1,000.00 fee for
service of summons and processes.
SEC. 11. Dismissal of the Claim. After the court determines
that the case falls under these Rules, it may, from an examination of the
allegations of the Statement of Claim/s and such evidence attached
thereto, by itself, dismiss the case outright on any of the grounds for the
dismissal of the case. The order of dismissal shall state if it is with or
without prejudice.
If, during the hearing, the court is able to determine that there
exists a ground for dismissal of the Statement of Claim/s, the court may,
by itself, dismiss the case even if such ground is not pleaded in the
defendants Response.
If plaintiff misrepresents that he/she/ it is not engaged in the business
of banking, lending or similar activities when in fact he/she/it is so
engaged, the Statement of Claim/s shall be dismissed with prejudice and
plaintiff shall be meted the appropriate sanctions, such as direct contempt.
However, if the case does not fall under this Rule, but falls under
summary or regular procedure, the case shall not be dismissed. Instead,
the case shall be re-docketed under the appropriate procedure, and
returned to the court where it was assigned, subject to payment of any
deficiency in the applicable regular rate of filing fees. If a case is filed
under the regular or summary procedure, but actually falls under this
Rule, the case shall be referred to the Executive Judge for appropriate
assignment.
SEC. 12. Summons and Notice of Hearing. If no ground for
dismissal is found, the court shall forthwith issue Summons (Form 2-

2016 Revised Rules of Procedure for Small Claims Cases

11

SCC) on the day of receipt of the Statement of Claim/s, directing the

defendant to submit a verified Response.
The court shall also issue a Notice of Hearing (Form 4-SCC) to
both parties, directing them to appear before it on a specific date and
time for hearing, with a warning that no unjustified postponement shall
be allowed, as provided in Section 21 of this Rule.
The Summons to be served on the defendant shall be accompanied
by a copy of the Statement of Claim/s and documents submitted by
plaintiff, and a blank Response Form (Form 3-SCC) to be accomplished
by the defendant.
A Notice of Hearing shall accompany the Summons and shall
contain: (a) the date of the hearing, which shall not be more than thirty
(30) days from the filing of the Statement of Claim/s; and (b) the
express prohibition against the filing of a motion to dismiss or any other
motion under Section 16 of this Rule.
If Summons is returned without being served on any or all of the
defendants, the court shall order the plaintiff to cause the service of
summons and shall inform the court within thirty (30) days from notice
if said summons was served or not; otherwise, the Statement of Claim/
s shall be dismissed without prejudice as to those who were not served
with summons.
SEC. 13. Response. The defendant shall file with the court and
serve on the plaintiff a duly accomplished and verified Response within
a non-extendible period of ten (10) days from receipt of summons. The
Response shall be accompanied by certified photocopies of documents,
as well as affidavits of witnesses and other evidence in support thereof.
No evidence shall be allowed during the hearing which was not attached
to or submitted together with the Response, unless good cause is shown
for the admission of additional evidence.
SEC . 14. Effect of Failure to File Response. Should the
defendant fail to file his/her/its Response within the required period, and
likewise fail to appear on the date set for hearing, the court shall render
judgment on the same day, as may be warranted by the facts alleged in
the Statement of Claim/s.

12

A.M. No. 08-8-7-SC

Should the defendant fail to file his/her/its Response within the

required period but appears on the date set for hearing, the court shall
ascertain what defense he/she/it has to offer which shall constitute his/
her/its Response, and proceed to hear or adjudicate the case on the
same day as if a Response has been filed.
SEC. 15. Counterclaims Within the Coverage of this Rule. If
at the time the action is commenced, the defendant possesses a claim
against the plaintiff that (a) is within the coverage of this Rule, exclusive
of interest and costs; (b) arises out of the same transaction or event that
is the subject matter of the plaintiffs claim; (c) does not require for its
adjudication the joinder of third parties; and (d) is not the subject of
another pending action, the claim shall be filed as a counterclaim in the
Response; otherwise, the defendant shall be barred from suing on the
counterclaim.
The defendant may also elect to file a counterclaim against the
plaintiff that does not arise out of the same transaction or occurrence,
provided that the amount and nature thereof are within the coverage of
this Rule and the prescribed docket and other legal fees are paid.
SEC. 16. Prohibited Pleadings and Motions. The following
pleadings, motions, or petitions shall not be allowed in the cases covered
by this Rule:
(a)

Motion to dismiss the Statement of Claim/s;

(b)

Motion for a bill of particulars;

(c)

Motion for new trial, or for reconsideration of a judgment, or

for reopening of trial;

(d)

Petition for relief from judgment;

(e)

Motion for extension of time to file pleadings, affidavits, or

any other paper;

(f)

Memoranda;

(g)

Petition for certiorari, mandamus, or prohibition against any

interlocutory order issued by the court;

(h)

Motion to declare the defendant in default;

(i)

Dilatory motions for postponement;

2016 Revised Rules of Procedure for Small Claims Cases

(j)

Reply and rejoinder;

(k)

Third-party complaints; and

(l)

Interventions.

13

S EC . 17. Availability of Forms; Assistance by Court

Personnel. The Clerk of Court or other court personnel shall provide
such assistance as may be requested by a plaintiff or a defendant
regarding the availability of forms and other information about the
coverage, requirements as well as procedure for small claims cases.
SEC. 18. Appearance. The parties shall personally appear on
the designated date of hearing.
Appearance through a representative must be for a valid cause.
The representative of an individual-party must not be a lawyer, and must
be related to or next-of-kin of the individual-party. Juridical entities shall
not be represented by a lawyer in any capacity.
The representative must be authorized under a Special Power of
Attorney (Form 7-SCC) to enter into an amicable settlement of the
dispute and to enter into stipulations or admissions of facts and of
documentary exhibits.
SEC. 19. Appearance of Attorneys Not Allowed. No attorney
shall appear in behalf of or represent a party at the hearing, unless the
attorney is the plaintiff or defendant.
If the court determines that a party cannot properly present his/her
claim or defense and needs assistance, the court may, in its discretion,
allow another individual who is not an attorney to assist that party upon
the latters consent.
SEC. 20. Non-appearance of Parties. Failure of the plaintiff to
appear shall be cause for the dismissal of the Statement of Claim/s
without prejudice. The defendant who appears in the absence of the
plaintiff shall be entitled to judgment on a permissive counterclaim.
Failure of the defendant to appear shall have the same effect as
failure to file a Response under Section 14 of this Rule. This shall not
apply where one of two or more defendants who are sued under a
common cause of action and have pleaded a common defense appears
at the hearing.

14

A.M. No. 08-8-7-SC

Failure of both parties to appear shall cause the dismissal with

prejudice of both the Statement of Claim/s and the counterclaim.
S EC . 21. Postponement When Allowed. A request for
postponement of a hearing may be granted only upon proof of the
physical inability of the party to appear before the court on the scheduled
date and time. A party may avail of only one (1) postponement.
SEC. 22. Duty of the Court. At the beginning of the court session,
the judge shall read aloud a short statement explaining the nature, purpose
and the rule of procedure of small claims cases.
SEC. 23. Hearing. At the hearing, the judge shall first exert
efforts to bring the parties to an amicable settlement of their dispute. If
efforts at settlement fail, the hearing shall immediately proceed in an
informal and expeditious manner and be terminated within the same day.
Any settlement (Form 8-SCC) or resolution of the dispute shall be
reduced into writing, signed by the parties and submitted to the court for
approval (Form 9-SCC and Form 10-SCC).
SEC. 24. Decision. After the hearing, the court shall render its
decision based on the facts established by the evidence (Form 11SCC), within twenty-four (24) hours from termination of the hearing.
The decision shall immediately be entered by the Clerk of Court in the
court docket for civil cases and a copy thereof forthwith served on the
parties.
The decision shall be final, executory and unappealable.
SEC. 25. Execution. When the decision is rendered, execution
shall issue upon motion (Form 12-SCC) of the winning party.
SEC. 26. Certification of documents. All documents attached
to the Statement of Claim/s or Response that are required to be certified,
except public or official documents, shall be certified by the signature
of the plaintiff or defendant concerned.
SEC. 27. Applicability of the Rules of Civil Procedure. The
Rules of Civil Procedure shall apply suppletorily insofar as they are not
inconsistent with this Rule.
SEC. 28. Non-applicability. The rules on mediation/judicial
dispute resolution shall not apply, inasmuch as the parties may enter into
compromise at any stage of the proceedings.

2016 Revised Rules of Procedure for Small Claims Cases

15

SEC. 29. Effectivity. These Revised Rules shall take effect on

February 1, 2016 following their publication in two newspapers of general
circulation. They shall govern all cases filed after their effectivity, and
also all pending proceedings, except to the extent that in the opinion of
the court, their application would not be feasible or would work injustice,
in which case the procedure under which the cases were filed shall
govern.

SMALL CLAIMS STANDARD FORMS

The following forms shall be used. Substantial compliance therewith shall be sufficient.
(See attached forms)

16

A.M. No. 08-8-7-SC

FORM 1-SCC
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
_______________________________
_______________________________
__________________________,
Plaintiff,
vs.

Civil Case No. ________________

For: _______________________

__________________________,
Defendant.
x- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - x
STATEMENT OF CLAIM
(HABLA NG PAGSINGIL)
1.

The personal circumstances of the parties are as follows:

(Ang bawat panig ay ang mga sumusunod)

_______________________
NAME OF PLAINTIFF/S
(Pangalan ng Naghahabla)

______
SEX
(Kasarian)

______
AGE
(Edad)

____________
CIVIL STATUS
(Katayuang Sibil)

(Put a check on any of the following)

(Pumili sa mga sumusunod at lagyan ng tsek)
INDIVIDUAL
(Tao/Indibidwal)
COOPERATIVE
(Kooperatiba)

CORPORATION
(Korporasyon)

PARTNERSHIP
(Bakasan)

SOLE PROPRIETORSHIP
(Solong Pagmamay-ari)

2016 Revised Rules of Procedure for Small Claims Cases

17

NATURE OF BUSINESS:
(Uri ng Negosyo)
BANKING
(Bangko)

LENDING
(Pagpapautang)

OTHERS/PLEASE INDICATE________________________
(Iba pang uri ng negosyo)
PLAINTIFFS HOME ADDRESS:
(Pahatirang Sulat sa Bahay ng Naghahabla)
(City) ___________________________________
(Lungsod)

________
Zip Code

(Province, if applicable)_______________________ ________

(Lalawigan, kung meron)
Zip Code
Telephone No. ______________ Cellphone No._____________
(Telepono Blg.)
(Selpon Blg.)
PLACE OF WORK: ___________________________________________
(Lugar ng Pinagtatrabahuan)
Telephone No. ______________ Cellphone No._____________
(Telepono Blg.)
(Selpon Blg.)
NAME OF PLAINTIFFS REPRESENTATIVE:
____________________________
if applicable (must be a non-lawyer)
(Pangalan ng Kinatawan:)
(kung meron) [dapat hindi abogado]
HOME ADDRESS: (City) ________________________
(Pahatirang Sulat sa Bahay) (Lungsod)

________
Zip Code

(Province, if applicable)_________________________
(Lalawigan, kung meron)

________
Zip Code

18

A.M. No. 08-8-7-SC

Telephone No. ______________ Cellphone No._____________
(Telepono Blg.)
(Selpon Blg.) (Selpon Blg.)

PLACE OF WORK: ___________________________________________

(Lugar ng Pinagtatrabahuan)
Telephone No. ______________ Cellphone No._____________
(Telepono Blg.)
(Selpon Blg.)
_______________________
NAME OF DEFENDANT/S
(Pangalan ng Hinahabla)
INDIVIDUAL
(Tao/Indibidwal)
COOPERATIVE
(Kooperatiba)

______
SEX
(Kasarian)

______
AGE
(Edad)

CORPORATION
(Korporasyon)

_____________
CIVIL STATUS
(Katayuang Sibil)
PARTNERSHIP
(Bakasan)

SOLE PROPRIETORSHIP
(Solong Pagmamay-ari)

DEFENDANTS HOME ADDRESS:

(Pahatirang Sulat sa Bahay ng Hinahabla)
(City) ___________________________________
(Lungsod)

________
Zip Code

(Province, if applicable)_______________________ ________

(Lalawigan, kung meron)
Zip Code
Telephone No. ______________ Cellphone No._____________
(Telepono Blg.)
(Selpon Blg.)
PLACE OF WORK: ___________________________________________
(Lugar ng Pinagtatrabahuan)
Telephone No. ______________ Cellphone No._____________
(Telepono Blg.)
(Selpon Blg.)

2016 Revised Rules of Procedure for Small Claims Cases

19

NAME OF DEFENDANTS REPRESENTATIVE:

________________________________
if applicable (must be a non-lawyer)
(Pangalan ng Kinatawan:)
(kung meron) [dapat hindi abogado]
HOME ADDRESS: (City) ________________________
(Pahatirang Sulat sa Bahay) (Lungsod)

________
Zip Code

(Province, if applicable)_______________________ ________

(Lalawigan, kung meron)
Zip Code
Telephone No. ______________ Cellphone No._____________
(Telepono Blg.)
(Selpon Blg.)
PLACE OF WORK: ___________________________________________
(Lugar ng Pinagtatrabahuan)
Telephone No. ______________ Cellphone No._____________
(Telepono Blg.)
(Selpon Blg.)
If more than one (1) defendant, list next defendant here:
(Kung higit sa isa (1) ang Hinahabla, ilagay ang susunod na hinahabla
rito:)
_______________________
NAME OF DEFENDANT/S
(Pangalan ng Hinahabla)
INDIVIDUAL
(Tao/Indibidwal)
COOPERATIVE
(Kooperatiba)

______
SEX
(Kasarian)

______
AGE
(Edad)

CORPORATION
(Korporasyon)

_____________
CIVIL STATUS
(Katayuang Sibil)
PARTNERSHIP
(Bakasan)

SOLE PROPRIETORSHIP
(Solong Pagmamay-ari)

DEFENDANTS HOME ADDRESS:

(Pahatirang Sulat sa Bahay ng Hinahabla)
(City) ___________________________________
(Lungsod)

________
Zip Code

20

A.M. No. 08-8-7-SC

(Province, if applicable)_______________________ ________
(Lalawigan, kung meron)
Zip Code
Telephone No. ______________ Cellphone No._____________
(Telepono Blg.)
(Selpon Blg.)

PLACE OF WORK: ___________________________________________

(Lugar ng Pinagtatrabahuan)
Telephone No. ______________ Cellphone No._____________
(Telepono Blg.)
(Selpon Blg.)
NAME OF DEFENDANTS REPRESENTATIVE:
__________________________________
if applicable (must be a non-lawyer)
(Pangalan ng Kinatawan:)
(kung meron) [dapat hindi abogado]
HOME ADDRESS: (City) ________________________
(Pahatirang Sulat sa Bahay) (Lungsod)

________
Zip Code

(Province, if applicable)_______________________ ________

(Lalawigan, kung meron)
Zip Code
Telephone No. ______________ Cellphone No._____________
(Telepono Blg.)
(Selpon Blg.)
PLACE OF WORK: ___________________________________________
(Lugar ng Pinagtatrabahuan)
Telephone No. ______________ Cellphone No._____________
(Telepono Blg.)
(Selpon Blg.)
*Note: If you need more space, you can write at the back of this Form.
(*Tala: Kung kailangan mo ng karagdagang patlang, maaari mong isulat
sa likod ng Form na ito.)

2016 Revised Rules of Procedure for Small Claims Cases

2.

21

Plaintiff claims the defendant owes him/her/it

P________________________.
(Ang Hinahabla ay umutang sa Naghahabla ng halagang)
(a) Why does the defendant owe plaintiff money?
(Bakit ang Hinahabla ay nagkautang ng salapi sa Naghahabla?)
____________________________________________________
___________________________________________________.
(If you need more space, please use the back page). (Kung kailangan
mo ng karagdagang patlang, maaaring gamitin ang likod ng
pahinang ito.)
(b) When did this happen?
(Kailan ito nangyari?)
Date: _______________________
(Petsa)
If no specific date, give the time period:
(Kung walang tiyak na petsa, ibigay ang tantiyang panahon)
Date started: _______________________
(Petsa nagsimula)
Through: _______________________
(Hanggang)

3.

(c)

How did you compute the money owed to you? (Do not include
court costs or fees)
___________________________________________________.
(Paano mo kinuwenta ang salaping inutang sa iyo?) [Hindi kasama
ang bayad sa pagpapatala sa hukuman.]

(a)

Did you ask the defendant to pay you before you filed this case?
(Siningil mo ba ang Hinahabla bago ka nagsampa ng kasong ito?)
Yes
(Oo)

No
(Hindi)

If no, explain:
________________________________________________
(Kung hindi, ipaliwanag)

22

A.M. No. 08-8-7-SC

(b) How did you ask the defendant?
Paano mo siningil ang Hinahabla?)
In person
(Sa kanya mismo)

By phone
(Sa telepono)

In writing
(Sa sulat)

Others (please specify) ______

(Iba pa) [pakisulat kung paano]

(c) When did you do this?

_________________________________________
(Kailan mo ginawa ito?)
4.

What is your proof that defendant owes you money?

________________________
(Ano ang iyong katibayan o pruweba na ang Hinahabla ay may utang na
salapi sa iyo?)

5.

Did you attach your proof to this form?

(Iyo bang inilakip ang katibayan o pruweba sa Form na ito?)
Yes
(Oo

6.

No
(Hindi)

Was this claim referred to the barangay?

(Dumaan ba sa barangay ang paniningil na ito?)
Yes
(Oo)

No
(Hindi)

Not Covered
(Hindi sakop)

State reason:
_________________________________________________
(Isulat ang dahilan)
If yes, do you have a Certificate to File Action or a Compromise Agreement
executed before the barangay? __________
(Kung oo, meron ka bang Patunay sa Pagsampa ng Kaso o Kasunduan
na isinagawa sa barangay?)
6-A. How many small claims cases have you filed within this calendar
year prior to this present case, in this court station and in the entire
country: _____
(Pang ilang kaso na itong isinampa mo sa loob ng kasalakuyang
taon sa korte na ito at sa buong bansa?)

2016 Revised Rules of Procedure for Small Claims Cases

7.

23

By the filing of this action, plaintiff hereby waives any amount in excess
of P200,000.00, excluding interest and costs.
(Sa pagsampa ng kasong ito, ang Naghahabla ay isinusuko ang anumang
halaga na higit sa P200,000.00, hindi kasama ang tubo at gastos sa
pagsampa ng kasong ito.)
PRAYE R
(PAGSAMO)

WHEREFORE, plaintiff respectfully prays for judgment ordering defendant to pay the amount of P ____________, with interest at the rate of
_____% per annum/per month from ___________________ until fully paid.
(DAHIL DITO, ang Naghahabla ay magalang na sumasamo na igawad
ang kapasiyahang utusan ang Hinahabla na magbayad sa Naghahabla ng
halagang
P_____________, pati ang tubo na ______% bawat taon/
buwan simula _______________ hanggang ganap o lubos na mabayaran
ito.) __________________________________, ____________, 20___.

FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY

(Para sa Opisyal na gamit lamang)
- To be accomplished by the Branch Clerk of
Court(Sasagutan ng Kawani ng Hukuman)
1. Cause of action
Check
Promissory Note
Contract
Oral
Written
Barangay Agreement
Others (Please specify):
_________________________________.
2. _____ Barangay conciliation required.
If yes, _____ Certificate to File Action
_____ Compromise
Agreement
attached.
_____ Barangay conciliation not required.
Please state the reason):
________________________________________.

______________________
PLAINTIFF
(Naghahabla)

24

A.M. No. 08-8-7-SC

FORM 1-A-SCC

VERIFICATION AND CERTIFICATION AGAINST

NON-FORUM SHOPPING, SPLITTING A SINGLE CAUSE
OF ACTION AND MULTIPLICITY OF SUITS
I,_________________________ of legal age, _________________,
(name)
(citizenship)
__________________, and a resident of _________________________,
(civil status)
(residence)
on oath, state:
1.

That I am the _____________________ in the above-entitled case have

caused this _______________________________ to be prepared; that
I read and understood its contents which are true and correct of my own
personal knowledge and/or based on true records;

2.

That I have not commenced any action or proceeding involving the same
issue or subject matter, and specifically the same check/s in the Supreme
Court, the Court of Appeals or any other tribunal or agency, particularly
before the Office of the City Prosecutor of _______________________
; that to the best of my knowledge, no such action or proceeding is
pending in the Supreme Court, the Court of Appeals or any other tribunal
or agency, and that, if I should learn thereafter that a similar action or
proceeding has been filed or is pending before these courts or tribunal or
agency, I undertake to report that fact to the Court within five (5) days
therefrom.

3.

That the filing of this case is not in violation of the rule against splitting
a single cause of action or multiplicity of suits.

4.

That I knowingly and voluntarily waive and forego the institution of any
criminal complaint for Violation of Batas Pambansa Blg. 22 against the
defendant herein based on the same check/s subject matter of this Small
Claims Complaint.

2016 Revised Rules of Procedure for Small Claims Cases

25

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this day of

______________, 20_____.
______________________
Affiant
SUBSCRIBED AND SWORN to before me this ____________ day of
______________, 20_____.
______________________
NOTARY PUBLIC

26

A.M. No. 08-8-7-SC

FORM 2-SCC
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
_____________________________,
Plaintiff,
vs.

Civil Case No. ________________

For: _______________________

_____________________________,
Defendant.
x- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -x
SUMMONS
TO: _________________________
_____________________________
_____________________________
GREETINGS:
You are hereby required, within ten (10) days from receipt of this Summons, to file with this Court and serve on plaintiff, your verified Response to
the attached Statement of Claim. The form of the required Response is attached
hereto.
You are required to submit with your Response certified copies of documents as well as affidavits of any witness to stand as your evidence in this
case. You must present the original document/s on the day of hearing.
A motion to dismiss is prohibited and shall not be entertained. Any
ground for dismissal should be included in your Response. Likewise, motions
for bill of particulars and for extension to file pleadings, affidavits or any other
paper are prohibited.
Your failure to respond within the 10-day period AND TO APPEAR AT
THE HEARING OF THIS CASE will authorize the Court to render judgment.

2016 Revised Rules of Procedure for Small Claims Cases

27

Witness my hand under the seal of this Court, this _______day of

____________, 20_____, at ____________________________, Philippines.

_________________________
BRANCH CLERK OF COURT
NOTE: FOR INQUIRIES, CALL TEL. #_________________

28

A.M. No. 08-8-7-SC

FORM 3-SCC
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
_____________________________,
Plaintiff,
vs.

Civil Case No. ________________

For: _______________________

_____________________________,
Defendant.
x- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -x
RESPONSE
(SAGOT)
Defendant/s state/s:
(Ang Hinahabla ay nagsasaad:)
1.

Defendant denies the Statement of Claim for any of the following reasons:
(Put a check in any of the following)
(Tinatanggihan ng Hinahabla ang Habla ng Pagsingil sa alinmang
sumusunod na dahilan): [Pumili sa mga sumusunod at lagyan ng tsek]
(a) ____ Defendant does not owe plaintiff any money.
(Ang Hinahabla ay walang pagkakautang na salapi sa
Naghahabla.)
____ Defendant owes plaintiff only a portion of the amount claimed.
(Ang utang ng Hinahabla ay bahagi lamang ng halagang
sinisingil ng Naghahabla.)

2016 Revised Rules of Procedure for Small Claims Cases

29

____ It is the plaintiff who owes defendant money.

(Ang Naghahabla ang siyang may utang na salapi sa
Hinahabla.)
(b) If defendant owes plaintiff only a portion of the amount claimed, how
much is this?
(Kung ang utang ng Hinahabla ay bahagi lamang ng halagang
sinisingil ng Naghahabla, magkano ito?)
_________________________________________________.
_________________________________________________.
(c) If it is the plaintiff who owes defendant money, how much and when
did this happen?
(Kung ang Naghahabla ang siyang may utang na salapi sa
Hinahabla, magkano at kailan ito nangyari?)
_________________________________________________.
_________________________________________________.
If no specific date, estimate the time period:
(Kung walang tiyak na petsa, ibigay ang tantiyang panahon)
Date started _______________
(Petsa nagsimula)
Through__________________
(Hanggang)
(d) How did you compute the money owed you? (Do not include court
costs or fees for service.)
(Paano mo kinuwenta ang salaping pagkakautang sa iyo?) (Huwag
isama ang filing fees at bayad sa serbisyo.)
_________________________________________________.
_________________________________________________.
2.

If plaintiff owes you money, did you ask plaintiff to pay you?
(Kung ang Naghahabla ay siyang may pagkakautang sa iyo, siningil mo
ba siya?)
_____ Yes
(Oo)
If yes, how?
(Kung oo, paano?)

_____ No
(Hindi)

30

A.M. No. 08-8-7-SC

____
____
____

3.

In person
(Sa kanya mismo)
In writing
(Sa sulat)
By phone
(Sa telepono)

Do you have any proof?

(Meron ka bang anumang katibayan?)
What is this proof?
(Anong katibayan ito?)

4.

____ Others (specify) ___________

(Iba pa) [ano ito?]

_____Yes
(Oo)

_____No
(Hindi)

_____ Receipt
Resibo)
_____ Other document
(Iba pang dokumento)
_____ Witness
(Saksi/testigo)

As the Statement of Claim is baseless, defendant is entitled to the following

counterclaims:
(Sa dahilang walang basehan ang Habla ng Pagsingil, ang Hinahabla
ay may karapatan sa mga ganting-habol na sumusunod)
____

Actual Damages for the value of the loss suffered by the filing of
the case P _______________.
(Bayad para sa aktwal na pinsalang idinulot ng pagsampa ng
kaso)

____

Costs of suit for the money defendant spent in filing a

countercharge against plaintiff P ________________.
(Kabayaran/Gastos sa kasong isinampa)
________________________
DEFENDANT
(Hinahabla)

2016 Revised Rules of Procedure for Small Claims Cases

VERIFICATION AND CERTIFICATION AGAINST NON-FORUM
SHOPPING, SPLITTING A SINGLE CAUSE OF ACTION AND
MULTIPLICITY OF SUITS
(if with permissive counterclaim)
(PAGPAPATOTOO O PAGPAPATUNAY NA WALANG IBANG
KASONG NAKASAMPA/NAKABINBIN SA IBANG HUKUMAN)
(kapag may ganting habol na pinahihintulutan)

31

32

A.M. No. 08-8-7-SC

FORM 4-SCC
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
__________________________________,
Plaintiff,
vs.

Civil Case No. ________

For: _________________

__________________________________,
Defendant.
x- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -x
NOTICE OF HEARING
(ABISO NG PAGDINIG)
YOUR CASE IS SET for hearing before the Presiding Judge of this Court
on _______________________ at _______________.
(Ang inyong kaso ay diringgin ng Pinunong Hukom ng Hukumang ito
sa _______________________________, sa ganap na _________.)
YOU MUST ATTEND THE HEARING. IF YOU CANNOT ATTEND
BECAUSE IT IS PHYSICALLY IMPOSSIBLE FOR YOU TO DO SO, YOU MAY
AUTHORIZE A REPRESENTATIVE WHO IS NOT A LAWYER TO APPEAR
FOR YOU. FOR THIS PURPOSE YOU SHOULD FILL UP FORM 5-SCC
(SPECIAL POWER OF ATTORNEY).
(KINAKAILANGAN NINYONG DUMALO SA PAGDINIG. KUNG HINDI
KAYA NG KATAWAN NINYO ANG PAGDALO NANG PERSONAL SA PAGDINIG
NG IYONG KASO, MAAARI KANG MAGPADALA NG IYONG KINATAWAN NA
HINDI ABOGADO SA PAGDINIG. SA GANITONG LAYUNIN, PUNUAN NINYO
ANG FORM 5-SCC [NATATANGING GAWAD-KAPANGYARIHAN - SPECIAL
POWER OF ATTORNEY.])

2016 Revised Rules of Procedure for Small Claims Cases

33

WITNESS the HON.______________________________________,

Presiding Judge of this Court, this ____ day of ________________,
20___, at
__________________________, Philippines.
(Saksi si Kgg. __________________________________________,
Pinunong Hukom ng Hukumang ito, ngayong ____________________,
20___ dito sa ______________, Pilipinas.)
_______________________________
Branch Clerk of Court
(Sangay na Kawani ng Hukuman)
NOTE: FOR INQUIRIES, CALL TEL. #____________
(Tala: Para sa katanungan, tumawag sa Korte sa Tel. Blg. _________)

34

A.M. No. 08-8-7-SC

FORM 5-SCC
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
__________________________________,
Plaintiff,
vs.

Civil Case No. ________

For: _________________

__________________________________,
Defendant.
x- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -x
PLAINTIFFS RETURN/MANIFESTATION
This is to certify that on
(date)
and
(date)
, the
undersigned tried to serve the Summons, Statement of Claim, together
with the Annexes and Notice of Hearing upon the defendant/s
name/s of defendant/s
, but failed and unavailing on the ground that the
said defendant/s was/were not around during the time of service.
However, on
(date)
, the Summons, Statement of Claims,
Annexes thereto and Notice of Hearing were served personally to
(name of defendant who received)
, as shown by her/his signature
appearing at the lower portion of the summons.
WHEREFORE, the original copy of the Summons is respectfully returned
to the Honorable Court, DULY SERVED PERSONALLY.
__________________, Philippines, (date).

_____________________
PLAINTIFF

2016 Revised Rules of Procedure for Small Claims Cases

35

FORM 5-A-SCC
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
__________________________________,
Plaintiff,
vs.

Civil Case No. ______

For: _______________

__________________________________,
Defendant.
x- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -x
PLAINTIFFS RETURN/MANIFESTATION
This is to certify that on
(date) and
(date) , the undersigned
tried to serve the Summons, Statement of Claim, together with the Annexes and
Notice of Hearing upon the defendant/s
name/s of defendant/s
, but
failed and unavailing on the ground that the said defendant/s was/were not
around during the time of service.
However, on (date) , the Summons, Statement of Claims, Annexes
thereto and Notice of Hearing were served through (name of person who
received) , who introduced himself/herself as a (relationship of the person
to the defendant/s), a person of suitable age and discretion, residing therein,
who signed at the lower portion of the summons.
Substituted service was made after the undersigned exerted earnest
efforts to serve the Summons, together with the Statement of Claim, Annexes
thereto and the Notice of Hearing personally upon the defendant, which
proved futile.
WHEREFORE, the original copy of the Summons is respectfully returned
to the Honorable Court, DULY SERVED.
_________________, Philippines, (date).
_____________________
PLAINTIFF

36

A.M. No. 08-8-7-SC

FORM 6-SCC
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
__________________________________,
Plaintiff,
vs.

Civil Case No. ______

For: _______________

__________________________________,
Defendant.
x- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -x
MOTION TO PLEAD AS INDIGENT
_____________________, unto this Honorable Court, respectfully
alleges that:
1. I am a resident of ___________________;
2. My gross income and that of my immediate family does not
exceed __________________;
3. I do not own real property with an assessed value of more than
(amount as provided in the Revised Rules of Court, as amended) as shown by
the attached Certification issued by the Office of the City/Municipal Assessor
and the City/Municipal Treasurers Office;
4. Due to financial constraint, I cannot afford to pay for the expenses
of a court litigation as I do not have enough funds for food, shelter and other
basic necessities;
5. Should the court render judgment in my favor, the amount of the
docket and other legal fees which I was exempted from paying shall be a lien
on the judgment, unless the court orders otherwise.

2016 Revised Rules of Procedure for Small Claims Cases

37

WHEREFORE, premises considered, it is respectfully prayed that I be

exempted from the payment of docket and other legal fees as indigent pursuant
to Section 21, Rule 3, in relation to Section 18, Rule 141 of the Revised Rules
of Court.
Other reliefs just and equitable under the premises are likewise prayed
for.
______________________
PLAINTIFF

38

A.M. No. 08-8-7-SC

FORM 7-SCC
SPECIAL POWER OF ATTORNEY
KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS:
I, __________________________________, of legal age, single/
married, with residence at ______________________________
do hereby appoint, name and constitute __________________________,
likewise of legal age, single/married, with residence at
______________________________, who is related to me and/or is my nextof-kin, and is not a lawyer, as my true and legal representative to act for and
in my name and stead and to represent me during the hearing of Civil Case
No.____________, to enter into amicable settlement, to submit to alternative
modes of dispute resolution and to make admissions or stipulations of facts
and documents without further consultation from me.
I hereby grant my representative full power and authority to execute and
perform every act necessary to render effective the power to compromise as
though I myself have so performed it and hereby approving all that he may do
by virtue of these presents.
In witness whereof, I hereunto set my hand this ___________ day
of ______________, 20______, at ______________________________.
_______________________________
Principal
_______________________________
Agent
Witnesses: _________________

________________________

(ACKNOWLEDGMENT)

2016 Revised Rules of Procedure for Small Claims Cases

39

FORM 8-SCC
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
__________________________________,
Plaintiff,
vs.

Civil Case No. ______

For: _______________

__________________________________,
Defendant.
x- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -x
JOINT MOTION
(FOR DISMISSAL)
Plaintiff and defendant, unto this Honorable Court, respectfully allege
that:
1. Plaintiff and defendant have mutually and voluntarily settled their
claim and counterclaim to the entire satisfaction of each other; and
2. The parties no longer have a cause of action against each other.
WHEREFORE, premises considered, plaintiff and defendant respectfully
pray that the plaintiffs statement of claim and defendants counterclaim
incorporated in his response be dismissed.
Other reliefs just and equitable under the premises are likewise prayed
for.
(place)

(date)

_____________________
Plaintiff

.
_____________________
Defendant

40

A.M. No. 08-8-7-SC

To the Branch Clerk of Court:

Please submit the foregoing motion for the consideration of the Court
without hearing and further argument from the parties.
_____________________
Plaintiff

_____________________
Defendant

2016 Revised Rules of Procedure for Small Claims Cases

41

FORM 9-SCC
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
__________________________________,
Plaintiff,
vs.

Civil Case No. ______

For: _______________

__________________________________,
Defendant.
x- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -x
MOTION FOR APPROVAL OF COMPROMISE AGREEMENT
The parties respectfully allege that:
1. Plaintiff filed this claim against defendant for:
_____________ collection of sum of money
_____________ liquidated damages
_____________ enforcement of barangay agreement
2. The parties have come to an amicable settlement and have executed
a compromise agreement with the following terms and conditions.
(copy terms and condition here)
3. The parties agree that the approval of this agreement by the Court
shall put an end to this litigation, except for purposes of execution in case of
default.
WHEREFORE, premises considered, the parties respectfully pray that
the court approve this agreement and render judgment on the basis thereof.
(place)

(date)

___________________
Plaintiff

.
______________________
Defendant

42

A.M. No. 08-8-7-SC

FORM 10-SCC
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
__________________________________,
Plaintiff,
vs.

Civil Case No. ______

For: _______________

__________________________________,
Defendant.
x- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -x
DECISION
(BASED ON COMPROMISE AGREEMENT)
Plaintiff filed this case against defendant for _____________________
in the amount of ________________________.
Defendant denied plaintiffs claim on the ground of _________________
and set up a counterclaim for _______________________.
The parties, however, reached an amicable settlement and submitted to
the court a compromise agreement, the terms and conditions of which are as
follows:
(terms and condition here)
It appearing that the agreement is not contrary to law, morals, good
customs, public moral and public policy, and pursuant to Articles 2028 and 2037
of the Civil Code of the Philippines, the same is hereby APPROVED and
ADOPTED as the Decision of this court.
The parties are hereby ordered to faithfully comply with the terms and
conditions of the agreement.

2016 Revised Rules of Procedure for Small Claims Cases

43

WHEREFORE, judgment is hereby rendered approving the Compromise

Agreement and the parties are ordered to comply with the terms and conditions,
as follows:
(The judge should define the rights and obligations
of the parties under the judgment approving the Compromise
Agreement to be enforced by a Writ of Execution.)
SO ORDERED.
(place)

(date)

.
________________________
Presiding Judge

44

A.M. No. 08-8-7-SC

FORM 11SCC
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
(Title)

(Case Number)
DECISION

This is a small claims action for (state which of the claims or demands
below is the subject of the action filed):
[For money owed under any of the following:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

Contract
Contract
Contract
Contract
Contract

of lease
of loan
of services
of sale
of mortgage; or

For liquidated damages arising from contracts;

The enforcement of a barangay amicable settlement or an arbitration
award involving a money claim covered by this Rule pursuant to
Section 417 of Republic Act 7160, otherwise known as The Local
Government Code of 1991.]
Plaintiff alleges that (state material allegations and prayer in the Statement
of Claim).
Defendant alleges that (state reasons for denial of the claim and other
material allegations in the Response including counterclaims, if any).
On (date), both parties appeared during the hearing conducted by (state
name of Judge who conducted the dispute resolution. State whether parties
appeared personally or through a specially authorized representative.)
Considering the failure of the parties to arrive at any settlement of the
dispute, this court proceeded with the hearing of the case which was terminated
on _________________.

2016 Revised Rules of Procedure for Small Claims Cases

45

The issue to be resolved by this court is whether__________________.

Plaintiffs evidence consists of: (state documents of plaintiff, affidavits
submitted if any and statements made by plaintiff and witnesses under oath
during the hearing.)
Defendants evidence consists of: (state documents of defendant,
affidavits submitted if any and statements made by defendant and witnesses
under oath during the hearing.)
This court finds that the claim of plaintiff (or defendant in a counterclaim)
is (state whether meritorious or devoid of merit). Under Article/Section (state
the applicable provisions of law) or pursuant to established jurisprudence (cite
applicable jurisprudence). In this case, this court found that (state first the
factual findings established by the evidence and then the legal conclusions).
Wherefore, the (claim/counterclaim) is (granted/denied). This court orders
____________________ to pay to _______________________ the amount
of (state the monetary award or damages) with interest of (if applicable under
Civil Code and/or settled jurisprudence) until fully paid.
SO ORDERED.
(place)

(date)

.
____________________
Presiding Judge

Copy furnished:
All parties
Office of the Clerk of Court of ____________

46

A.M. No. 08-8-7-SC

FORM 12-SCC
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
__________________________________,
Plaintiff,
vs.

Civil Case No. ______

For: _______________

__________________________________,
Defendant.
x- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -x
MOTION FOR EXECUTION
Plaintiff/Defendant, unto this Honorable Court, respectfully alleges that:
1. On _______________, a judgment was rendered by the Court, the
dispositive portion of which reads:
2.

The judgment is final, executory and unappealable.

3.

The defendant has not complied with the judgment.

WHEREFORE, premises considered, it is respectfully prayed that a writ

of execution be issued to implement the judgment of the Court dated
__________________.
______________________, __________________.
_______________________
Plaintiff/Defendant

2016 Revised Rules of Procedure for Small Claims Cases

47

NOTICE OF HEARING
NAME OF DEFENDANT (If filed by the Plaintiff)
NAME OF PLAINTIFF (If filed by the Defendant)
NAME OF CLERK OF COURT
Please be notified that the undersigned will submit the foregoing motion
for the consideration and approval of the Court on _________________
at ______________.
(place)

(date)

.
_____________________
Plaintiff/Defendant

48

A.M. No. 08-8-7-SC

COMPARATIVE STUDY BETWEEN
THE 2008 RULES AND
THE 2016 REVISED RULES OF PROCEDURE
FOR SMALL CLAIMS CASES
(Amendments in bold letters)

THE RULE OF
PROCEDURE FOR SMALL
CLAIMS CASES

THE REVISED RULES OF

PROCEDURE FOR SMALL
CLAIMS CASES

S ECTION 1. Title. This Rule

shall be known as The Rule of
Procedure for Small Claims
Cases.

SECTION 1. Title. These Rules

shall be known as The Revised
Rules of Procedure for Small
Claims Cases.

SEC. 2. Scope. This Rule shall

govern the procedure in actions
before the Metropolitan Trial
Courts, Municipal Trial Courts in
Cities, Municipal Trial Courts and
Municipal Circuit Trial Courts for
payment of money where the value
of the claim does not exceed One
Hundred Thousand Pesos
(P100,000.00) exclusive of interest
and costs.

SEC. 2. Scope. These Rules shall

govern the procedure in actions
before the Metropolitan Trial
Courts (MeTCs), Municipal Trial
Courts in Cities (MTCCs),
Municipal Trial Courts (MTCs)
and Municipal Circuit Trial Courts
(MCTCs) for payment of money
where the value of the claim does
not exceed Two Hundred
Thousand Pesos (P200,000.00)
exclusive of interest and costs.
SEC. 3. Objectives
(a) To protect and advance
the constitutional right of
persons to a speedy disposition
of their cases;
(b) To provide a simplified
and inexpensive procedure for
the disposition of small claims
cases; and,

2016 Revised Rules of Procedure for Small Claims Cases

SEC. 3. Definition of Terms. For
purposes of this Rule:
(a) Plaintiff refers to the party
who initiated a small claims action.
The term includes a defendant who
has filed a counterclaim against
plaintiff;
(b) Defendant is the party
against whom the plaintiff has filed
a small claims action. The term
includes a plaintiff against whom a
defendant has filed a claim, or a
person who replies to the claim;
(c) Person is an individual,
corporation, partnership, limited
liability partnership, association, or
other juridical entity endowed with
personality by law;
(d) Individual is a natural
person;
(e) Motion means a partys
request, written or oral, to the court
for an order or other action. It shall
include an informal written request
to the court, such as a letter;
(f) Good
cause
means
circumstances sufficient to justify
the requested order or other action,
as determined by the judge; and
(g) Affidavit means a written
statement or declaration of facts
that are sworn or affirmed to be
true.

49

(c) To introduce innovations

and best practices for the
benefit of the underprivileged.
SEC. 4. Definition of Terms. For
purposes of this Rule:
(a) Plaintiff refers to the party
who initiated a small claims action.
The term includes a defendant who
has filed a counterclaim against
plaintiff;
(b) Defendant is the party
against whom the plaintiff has filed
a small claims action. The term
includes a plaintiff against whom a
defendant has filed a claim, or a
person who replies to the claim;
(c) Person is an individual,
corporation, partnership, limited
liability partnership, association, or
other juridical entity endowed with
personality by law;
(d) Individual is a natural
person;
(e) Motion means a partys
request, written or oral, to the court
for an order or other action. It shall
include an informal written request
to the court, such as a letter;
(f) Good cause means
circumstances sufficient to justify
the requested order or other action,
as determined by the judge; and,
(g) Affidavit means a written
statement or declaration of facts
that are sworn to or affirmed to be
true.

50

A.M. No. 08-8-7-SC

S EC . 4. Applicability. The
Metropolitan Trial Courts,
Municipal Trial Courts in Cities,
Municipal Trial Courts, and
Municipal Circuit Trial Courts shall
apply this Rule in all actions which
are: (a) purely civil in nature where
the claim or relief prayed for by
the plaintiff is solely for payment
or reimbursement of sum of money,
and (b) the civil aspect of criminal
actions, either filed before the
institution of the criminal action, or
reserved upon the filing of the
criminal action in court, pursuant
to Rule 111 of the Revised Rules
of Criminal Procedure.

S EC . 5. Applicability. The
Metropolitan Trial Courts,
Municipal Trial Courts in Cities,
Municipal Trial Courts, and
Municipal Circuit Trial Courts shall
apply this Rule in all actions that
are purely civil in nature where the
claim or relief prayed for by the
plaintiff is solely for payment or
reimbursement of sum of money.

These claims or demands may be:

The claims or demands may be:

(a) For money owed under any

of the following:

(a) For money owed under any

of the following:

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

Contract of Lease;
Contract of Loan;
Contract of Services;
Contract of Sale; or
Contract of Mortgage;

(b) For damages arising from

any of the following:

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

Contract of Lease;
Contract of Loan;
Contract of Services;
Contract of Sale; or
Contract of Mortgage;

(b) For liquidated damages

arising from contracts;

1. Fault or negligence;
2. Quasi-contract; or
3. Contract;
(c) The enforcement of a
barangay amicable settlement or
an arbitration award involving a
money claim covered by this Rule
pursuant to Sec. 417 of Republic
Act 7160, otherwise known as the

(c) The enforcement of a

barangay amicable settlement or
an arbitration award involving a
money claim covered by this Rule
pursuant to Sec. 417 of Republic
Act 7160, otherwise known as the

2016 Revised Rules of Procedure for Small Claims Cases

51

Local Government Code of 1991.

Local Government Code of 1991.

S EC . 5. Commencement of
Small Claims Action. A small
claims action is commenced by
filing with the court an
accomplished and verified
Statement of Claim (Form 1-SCC)
in duplicate, accompanied by a
Certification of Non-Forum
Shopping (Form 1-A, SCC), and
two (2) duly certified photocopies
of the actionable document/s
subject of the claim, as well as the
affidavits of witnesses and other
evidence to support the claim. No
evidence shall be allowed during
the hearing which was not attached
to or submitted together with the
Claim, unless good cause is shown
for the admission of additional
evidence.

SEC. 6. Commencement of Small

Claims Action. A small claims
action is commenced by filing with
the court an accomplished and
verified Statement of Claim (Form
1-SCC) in duplicate, accompanied
by a Certification Against Forum
Shopping, Splitting a Single
Cause
of
Action,
and
Multiplicity of Suits (Form 1-ASCC), and two (2) duly certified
photocopies of the actionable
document/s subject of the claim,
as well as the affidavits of
witnesses and other evidence to
support the claim. No evidence
shall be allowed during the hearing
which was not attached to or
submitted together with the
Statement of Claim, unless good
cause is shown for the admission
of additional evidence.
The plaintiff must state in the
Statement of Claim if he/she/it
is engaged in the business of
lending, banking and similar
activities, and the number of
small claims cases filed within
the calendar year regardless of
judicial station.

No formal pleading, other than

the Statement of Claim described
in this Rule, is necessary to initiate
a small claims action.

No formal pleading, other than

the Statement of Claim/s described
in this Rule, is necessary to initiate
a small claims action.
SEC . 7. Venue. The regular
rules on venue shall apply.

52

A.M. No. 08-8-7-SC

However, if the plaintiff is
engaged in the business of
lending, banking and similar
activities, and has a branch
within the municipality or city
where the defendant resides,
the Statement of Claim/s shall
be filed where that branch is
located.

S EC . 6. Joinder of Claims.
Plaintiff may join in a single
statement of claim one or more
separate small claims against a
defendant provided that the total
amount claimed, exclusive of
interest and costs, does not exceed
P100,000.00.

S EC . 8. Joinder of Claims.
Plaintiff may join in a single
statement of claim one or more
separate small claims against a
defendant provided that the total
amount claimed, exclusive of
interest and costs, does not exceed
Two Hundred Thousand Pesos
(P200,000.00).

SEC. 7. Affidavits. The affidavits

submitted under this Rule shall state
only facts of direct personal
knowledge of the affiants which
are admissible in evidence.

SEC. 9. Affidavits. The affidavits

submitted under this Rule shall state
only facts of direct personal
knowledge of the affiants or based
on authentic records, which are
admissible in evidence.

A violation of this requirement

shall subject the party, and the
counsel who assisted the party in
the preparation of the affidavits, if
any, to appropriate disciplinary
action.
The
inadmissible
affidavit(s) or portion(s) thereof
shall be expunged from the record.

A violation of this requirement

shall subject the party, and the
counsel who assisted the party in
the preparation of the affidavits, if
any, to appropriate disciplinary
action.
The
inadmissible
affidavit(s) or portion(s) thereof
shall be expunged from the record.
The non-submission of the
required affidavits will cause the
immediate dismissal of the
claim or counterclaim.

2016 Revised Rules of Procedure for Small Claims Cases

SEC. 8. Payment of Filing Fees.
The plaintiff shall pay the docket
and other legal fees prescribed
under Rule 141 of the Revised
Rules of Court, unless allowed to
litigate as an indigent.

53

S EC . 10. Payment of Filing

Fees. The plaintiff shall pay the
docket and other legal fees
prescribed under Rule 141 of the
Revised Rules of Court, unless
allowed to litigate as an indigent.
Exemption from the payment of
filing fees shall be granted only
by the Supreme Court.
However, if more than five (5)
small claims are filed by one
party within the calendar year,
regardless of the judicial
station, an additional filing fee
of P500.00 shall be paid for
every claim filed after the fifth
(5th) claim, and an additional 100
or a total of P600.00 for every
claim filed after the tenth (10th)
claim, and another P100.00 or
a total of P700 for every claim
filed after the fifteenth (15 th)
claim, progressively and
cumulatively.
If the plaintiff is engaged in
the business of banking,
lending and similar activities,
the amount of filing and other
legal fees shall be the same as
those applicable to cases filed
under the regular rules.

A claim filed with a motion to

sue as indigent (Form 6-SCC) shall
be referred to the Executive Judge
for immediate action in case of
multi-sala courts, or to the Presiding
Judge of the court hearing the small
claims case. If the motion is

A claim filed with a motion to

sue as indigent (Form 6-SCC) shall
be referred to the Executive Judge
for immediate action in case of
multi-sala courts. If the motion is
granted by the Executive Judge,
the case shall be raffled off or

54

A.M. No. 08-8-7-SC

granted by the Executive Judge,

the case shall be raffled off or
assigned to the court designated to
hear small claims cases. If the
motion is denied, the plaintiff shall
be given five (5) days within which
to pay the docket fees, otherwise,
the case shall be dismissed without
prejudice. In no case shall a party,
even if declared an indigent, be
exempt from the payment of the
P1,000.00 fee for service of
summons and processes in civil
cases.

assigned to the court designated to

hear small claims cases. If the
motion is denied, the plaintiff shall
be given five (5) days within which
to pay the docket fees, otherwise,
the case shall be dismissed without
prejudice. In no case shall a party,
even if declared an indigent, be
exempt from the payment of the
P1,000.00 fee for service of
summons and processes.

SEC. 9. Dismissal of the Claim.

After the court determines that the
case falls under this Rule, it may,
from an examination of the
allegations of the Statement of
Claim and such evidence attached
thereto, by itself, dismiss the case
outright on any of the grounds
apparent from the Claim for the
dismissal of a civil action.

SEC. 11. Dismissal of the Claim.

After the court determines that the
case falls under this Rule, it may,
from an examination of the
allegations of the Statement of
Claim/s and such evidence
attached thereto, by itself, dismiss
the case outright on any of the
grounds for the dismissal of the
case. The order of dismissal
shall state if it is with or without
prejudice.
If, during the hearing, the
court is able to determine that
there exists a ground for
dismissal of the Statement of
Claim/s, the court may, by itself,
dismiss the case even if such
ground is not pleaded in the
defendants Response.
If plaintiff misrepresents that
he/she/ it is not engaged in the
business of banking, lending or

2016 Revised Rules of Procedure for Small Claims Cases

55

similar activities when in fact

he/she/it is so engaged, the
Statement of Claim/s shall be
dismissed with prejudice and
plaintiff shall be meted the
appropriate sanctions, such as
direct contempt.
However, if the case does not
fall under this Rule, but falls
under summary or regular
procedure, the case shall not
be dismissed. Instead, the case
shall be re-docketed under the
appropriate procedure, and
returned to the court where it
was assigned, subject to
payment of any deficiency in the
applicable regular rate of filing
fees. If a case is filed under the
regular or summary procedure,
but actually falls under this
Rule, the case shall be referred
to the Executive Judge for
appropriate assignment.
SEC. 10. Summons and Notice of
Hearing. If no ground for
dismissal is found, the court shall
forthwith issue Summons (Form 2SCC) on the day of receipt of the
Statement of Claim, directing the
defendant to submit a verified
Response.

SEC. 12. Summons and Notice of

Hearing. If no ground for
dismissal is found, the court shall
forthwith issue Summons (Form 2SCC) on the day of receipt of the
Statement of Claim/s, directing the
defendant to submit a verified
Response.

The court shall also issue a

Notice (Form 4-SCC) to both
parties, directing them to appear
before it on a specific date and
time for hearing, with a warning

The court shall also issue a

Notice of Hearing (Form 4SCC) to both parties, directing them
to appear before it on a specific
date and time for hearing, with a

56
that no unjustified postponement
shall be allowed, as provided in
Section 19 of this Rule. The
summons and notice to be served
on the defendant shall be
accompanied by a copy of the
Statement of Claim and documents
submitted by plaintiff, and a copy
of the Response (Form 3-SCC) to
be accomplished by the defendant.
The Notice shall contain an express
prohibition against the filing of a
motion to dismiss or any other
motion under Section 14 of this
Rule.

A.M. No. 08-8-7-SC

warning that no unjustified
postponement shall be allowed, as
provided in Section 21 of this Rule.
The Summons to be served
on the defendant shall be
accompanied by a copy of the
Statement of Claim/s and
documents submitted by
plaintiff, and a blank Response
Form (Form 3-SCC) to be
accomplished
by
the
defendant.A Notice of Hearing
shall accompany the Summons
and shall contain: (a) the date
of the hearing, which shall not
be more than thirty (30) days
from the filing of the Statement
of Claim/s; and (b) the express
prohibition against the filing of
a motion to dismiss or any other
motion under Section 16 of this
Rule.
If Summons is returned
without being served on any or
all of the defendants, the court
shall order the plaintiff to cause
the service of summons and to
inform the court within thirty
(30) days from notice if said
summons was served or not;
otherwise, the Statement of
Claim/s shall be dismissed
without prejudice as to those
who were not served with
summons.

S EC . 11. Response. The

defendant shall file with the court

S EC . 13. Response. The

defendant shall file with the court

2016 Revised Rules of Procedure for Small Claims Cases

and serve on the plaintiff a duly
accomplished and verified
Response within a non-extendible
period of ten (10) days from receipt
of summons. The Response shall
be accompanied by certified
photocopies of documents, as well
as affidavits of witnesses and other
evidence in support thereof. No
evidence shall be allowed during
the hearing which was not attached
to or submitted together with the
Response, unless good cause is
shown for the admission of
additional evidence.

57

and serve on the plaintiff a duly

accomplished and verified
Response within a non-extendible
period of ten (10) days from receipt
of summons. The Response shall
be accompanied by certified
photocopies of documents, as well
as affidavits of witnesses and other
evidence in support thereof. No
evidence shall be allowed during
the hearing which was not attached
to or submitted together with the
Response, unless good cause is
shown for the admission of
additional evidence.

The grounds for the dismissal of

the claim, under Rule 16 of the
Rules of Court, should be pleaded.
SEC. 12. Effect of Failure to File
Response. Should the defendant
fail to file his Response within the
required period, and likewise fail
to appear at the date set for
hearing, the court shall render
judgment on the same day, as may
be warranted by the facts.

SEC. 14. Effect of Failure to File

Response. Should the defendant
fail to file his/her/its Response
within the required period, and
likewise fail to appear on the date
set for hearing, the court shall
render judgment on the same day,
as may be warranted by the facts
alleged in the Statement of
Claim/s.

Should the defendant fail to file

his Response within the required
period but appears at the date set
for hearing, the court shall ascertain
what defense he has to offer and
proceed to hear, mediate or
adjudicate the case on the same
day as if a Response has been filed.

Should the defendant fail to file

his/her/its Response within the
required period but appears on the
date set for hearing, the court shall
ascertain what defense he/she/it
has to offer which shall
constitute
his/her/its
Response, and proceed to hear
or adjudicate the case on the same
day as if a Response has been filed.

58

A.M. No. 08-8-7-SC

SEC . 13. Counterclaims Within

the Coverage of this Rule. If at
the time the action is commenced,
the defendant possesses a claim
against the plaintiff that (a) is within
the coverage of this Rule, exclusive
of interest and costs; (b) arises out
of the same transaction or event
that is the subject matter of the
plaintiff s claim; (c) does not
require for its adjudication the
joinder of third parties; and (d) is
not the subject of another pending
action, the claim shall be filed as a
counterclaim in the Response;
otherwise, the defendant shall be
barred from suit on the
counterclaim.

SEC . 15. Counterclaims Within

the Coverage of this Rule. If at
the time the action is commenced,
the defendant possesses a claim
against the plaintiff that (a) is within
the coverage of this Rule, exclusive
of interest and costs; (b) arises out
of the same transaction or event
that is the subject matter of the
plaintiffs claim; (c) does not
require for its adjudication the
joinder of third parties; and (d) is
not the subject of another pending
action, the claim shall be filed as a
counterclaim in the Response;
otherwise, the defendant shall be
barred from suing on the
counterclaim.

The defendant may also elect to

file a counterclaim against the
plaintiff that does not arise out of
the same transaction or occurrence,
provided that the amount and nature
thereof are within the coverage of
this Rule and the prescribed docket
and other legal fees are paid.

The defendant may also elect to

file a counterclaim against the
plaintiff that does not arise out of
the same transaction or occurrence,
provided that the amount and nature
thereof are within the coverage of
this Rule and the prescribed docket
and other legal fees are paid.

S EC. 14. Prohibited Pleadings

and Motions. The following
pleadings, motions, or petitions shall
not be allowed in the cases covered
by this Rule:

S EC. 16. Prohibited Pleadings

and Motions. The following
pleadings, motions, or petitions shall
not be allowed in the cases covered
by this Rule:

(a) Motion to dismiss the

complaint;

(a) Motion to dismiss the

Statement of Claim/s;

(b) Motion for a bill of

particulars;

(b) Motion for a bill of

particulars;

(c) Motion for new trial, or for

(c) Motion for new trial, or for

2016 Revised Rules of Procedure for Small Claims Cases

59

reconsideration of a judgment, or
for reopening of trial;

reconsideration of a judgment, or
for reopening of trial;

(d) Petition for relief from

judgment;

(d) Petition for relief from

judgment;

(e) Motion for extension of time

to file pleadings, affidavits, or any
other paper;

(e) Motion for extension of time

to file pleadings, affidavits, or any
other paper;

(f) Memoranda;

(f) Memoranda;

(g) Petition for certiorari,

mandamus, or prohibition against
any interlocutory order issued by
the court;

(g) Petition for certiorari,

mandamus, or prohibition against
any interlocutory order issued by
the court;

(h) Motion to declare the

defendant in default;

(h) Motion to declare the

defendant in default;

(i) Dilatory motions for

postponement;

(i) Dilatory motions for

postponement;

(j) Reply;

(j) Reply and rejoinder;

(k) Third-party complaints; and

(k) Third-party complaints; and

(l) Interventions.

(l) Interventions.

SEC. 15. Availability of Forms;

Assistance by Court Personnel.
The Clerk of Court or other court
personnel shall provide such
assistance as may be requested by
a plaintiff or a defendant regarding
the availability of forms and other
information about the coverage,
requirements as well as procedure
for small claims cases.

SEC. 17. Availability of Forms;

Assistance by Court Personnel.
The Clerk of Court or other court
personnel shall provide such
assistance as may be requested by
a plaintiff or a defendant regarding
the availability of forms and other
information about the coverage,
requirements as well as procedure
for small claims cases.

SEC. 16. Appearance. The parties

shall appear at the designated date
of hearing personally.

S EC . 18. Appearance. The

parties shall personally appear on
the designated date of hearing.

Appearance

through

Appearance

through

60

A.M. No. 08-8-7-SC

representative must be for a valid

cause. The representative of an
individual-party must not be a
lawyer, and must be related to or
next-of-kin of the individual-party.
Juridical entities shall not be
represented by a lawyer in any
capacity.

representative must be for a valid

cause. The representative of an
individual-party must not be a
lawyer, and must be related to or
next-of-kin of the individual-party.
Juridical entities shall not be
represented by a lawyer in any
capacity.

The representative must be

authorized under a Special Power
of Attorney (Form 5-SCC) to enter
into an amicable settlement of the
dispute and to enter into stipulations
or admissions of facts and of
documentary exhibits.

The representative must be

authorized under a Special Power
of Attorney (Form 7-SCC) to
enter into an amicable settlement
of the dispute and to enter into
stipulations or admissions of facts
and of documentary exhibits.

S EC . 17. Appearance of
Attorneys Not Allowed. No
attorney shall appear in behalf of
or represent a party at the hearing,
unless the attorney is the plaintiff
or defendant.

S EC . 19. Appearance of
Attorneys Not Allowed. No
attorney shall appear in behalf of
or represent a party at the hearing,
unless the attorney is the plaintiff
or defendant.

If the court determines that a

party cannot properly present his/
her claim or defense and needs
assistance, the court may, in its
discretion, allow another individual
who is not an attorney to assist
that party upon the latters consent.

If the court determines that a

party cannot properly present his/
her claim or defense and needs
assistance, the court may, in its
discretion, allow another individual
who is not an attorney to assist
that party upon the latters consent.

S EC . 18. Non-appearance of
Parties. Failure of the plaintiff to
appear shall be cause for the
dismissal of the claim without
prejudice. The defendant who
appears shall be entitled to
judgment on a permissive
counterclaim.

S EC . 20. Non-appearance of
Parties. Failure of the plaintiff to
appear shall be cause for the
dismissal of the claim without
prejudice. The defendant who
appears in the absence of the
plaintiff shall be entitled to
judgment on a permissive
counterclaim.

2016 Revised Rules of Procedure for Small Claims Cases

61

Failure of the defendant to

appear shall have the same effect
as failure to file a Response under
Section 12 of this Rule. This shall
not apply where one of two or more
defendants who are sued under a
common cause of action and have
pleaded a common defense
appears at the hearing.

Failure of the defendant to

appear shall have the same effect
as failure to file a Response under
Section 14 of this Rule. This shall
not apply where one of two or more
defendants who are sued under a
common cause of action and have
pleaded a common defense
appears at the hearing.

Failure of both parties to appear

shall cause the dismissal with
prejudice of both the claim and
counterclaim.

Failure of both parties to appear

shall cause the dismissal with
prejudice of both the Statement of
Claim/s and counterclaim.

S EC . 19. Postponement When

Allowed. A request for
postponement of a hearing may be
granted only upon proof of the
physical inability of the party to
appear before the court on the
scheduled date and time. A party
may avail of only one (1)
postponement.

S EC . 21. Postponement When

Allowed. A request for
postponement of a hearing may be
granted only upon proof of the
physical inability of the party to
appear before the court on the
scheduled date and time. A party
may avail of only one (1)
postponement.

SEC. 20. Duty of the Court. At

the beginning of the court session,
the judge shall read aloud a short
statement explaining the nature,
purpose and the rule of procedure
of small claims cases.

SEC. 22. Duty of the Court. At

the beginning of the court session,
the judge shall read aloud a short
statement explaining the nature,
purpose and the rule of procedure
of small claims cases.

S EC . 21. Hearing. At the

hearing, the judge shall exert efforts
to bring the parties to an amicable
settlement of their dispute. Any
settlement (Form 7-SCC) or
resolution (Form 8-SCC) of the
dispute shall be reduced into
writing, signed by the parties and

S EC . 23. Hearing. At the

hearing, the judge shall first exert
efforts to bring the parties to an
amicable settlement of their
dispute. If efforts at settlement
fail, the hearing shall
immediately proceed in an
informal and expeditious

62

A.M. No. 08-8-7-SC

submitted to the court for approval

(Form 12-SCC).

manner and be terminated

within the same day.

Settlement discussions shall be

strictly confidential and any
reference to any settlement made
in the course of such discussions
shall be punishable by contempt.

Any settlement (Form 8-SCC)

or resolution of the dispute shall be
reduced into writing, signed by the
parties and submitted to the court
for approval (Form 9-SCC and
Form 10-SCC).

SEC. 22. Failure of Settlement.

If efforts at settlement fail, the
hearing shall proceed in an informal
and expeditious manner and be
terminated within one (1) day.
Either party may move in writing
(Form 10-SCC) to have another
judge hear and decide the case.
The reassignment of the case shall
be done in accordance with
existing issuances.
The referral by the original judge
to the Executive Judge shall be
made within the same day the
motion is filed and granted, and by
the Executive Judge to the
designated judge within the same
day of the referral. The new judge
shall hear and decide the case
within five (5) working days from
receipt of the order of
reassignment.
S EC . 23. Decision. After the
hearing, the court shall render its
decision on the same day, based on
the facts established by the
evidence (Form 13-SCC). The
decision shall immediately be
entered by the Clerk of Court in
the court docket for civil cases and

S EC . 24. Decision. After the

hearing, the court shall render its
decision based on the facts
established by the evidence
(Form 11-SCC), within twenty
four
(24)
hours
from
termination of the hearing. The
decision shall immediately be

2016 Revised Rules of Procedure for Small Claims Cases

63

a copy thereof forthwith served on

the parties.

entered by the Clerk of Court in

the court docket for civil cases and
a copy thereof forthwith served on
the parties.

The decision shall be final and

unappealable.

The decision shall be final,

executory and unappealable.

S EC . 24. Execution. If the

decision is rendered in favor of the
plaintiff, execution shall issue upon
motion (Form 9-SCC).

SEC. 25. Execution. When the

decision is rendered, execution shall
issue upon motion (Form 12-SCC)
of the winning party.
S EC . 26. Certification of
documents. All documents
attached to the Statement of
Claim/s or Response that are
required to be certified, except
public or official documents,
shall be certified by the
signature of the plaintiff or
defendant concerned.

S EC . 25. Applicability of the

Rules of Civil Procedure. The
Rules of Civil Procedure shall apply
suppletorily insofar as they are not
inconsistent with this Rule.

S EC . 27. Applicability of the

Rules of Civil Procedure. The
Rules of Civil Procedure shall apply
suppletorily insofar as they are not
inconsistent with this Rule.
SEC. 28. Non-applicability. The
rules on mediation/judicial
dispute resolution shall not
apply, inasmuch as the parties
may enter into compromise at
any stage of the proceedings.

SEC. 26. Effectivity. This Rule

shall take effect on October 01,
2008 for the pilot courts designated
to apply the procedure for small
claims cases following its
publication in two newspapers of

S EC . 29. Effectivity. These

Revised Rules shall take effect
on February 1, 2016 following their
publication in two newspapers of
general circulation. They shall
govern all cases filed after their

64
general
circulation.
The
amendments to this Rule shall take
effect ninety (90) days from
publication in two (2) newspapers
of general circulation.

A.M. No. 08-8-7-SC

effectivity, and also all pending
proceedings, except to the
extent that in the opinion of the
court, their application would
not be feasible or would work
injustice, in which case the
procedure under which the
cases were filed shall govern.
SMALL CLAIMS
STANDARD FORMS
The following forms shall be
used. Substantial compliance
therewith shall be sufficient.
(See attached forms)