### Facts:
The case centers around an ejectment suit filed by the spouses Alfredo and Maria Lourdes Valmonte (petitioners) against Clarita Alcala (respondent) for the possession of Apartment No. 1411 in Paco, Manila. The petitioners, unregistered owners of the apartment, leased it to Alcala in January 1980. The lease agreement, initially verbal, was formalized by the payment of two months’ rental and the handover of the apartment keys to Alcala. Due to Alcala’s failure to pay the agreed rentals despite written demands, the Valmontes initiated a complaint for unlawful detainer on April 26, 2002, before the Metropolitan Trial Court (MTC), Manila.
The petitioners, at the time residing in the US, complied with the Verification/Certification of Non-Forum Shopping requirements through the Philippine Consulate in San Francisco. Alcala’s defense claimed ownership of the apartment through a previously executed Memorandum of Agreement. The MTC ruled in favor of the Valmontes, but this decision was reversed by the Regional Trial Court (RTC) Manila, prompting the Valmontes to file a Petition for Review with the Court of Appeals (CA), which was dismissed due to procedural deficiencies and a perceived issue with the verification date preceding the petition’s execution date.
### Issues:
1. Whether the Court of Appeals (CA) erred in dismissing the petition for review due to the petitioners’ failure to attach pertinent portions of the records and because of a discrepancy between the dates of the Verification/Certification and the petition.
2. Whether substantial compliance with the verification requirements under the peculiar circumstances (petitioners residing overseas) can be considered sufficient.
### Court’s Decision:
The Supreme Court found the petition meritorious, ruling that the CA’s dismissal based on technicalities and the date discrepancy was an error. The Court highlighted that the pleadings’ verification aims to ensure allegations are made in good faith, not to serve as an inflexible barrier to the adjudication of cases. The Supreme Court noted the petitioners’ reasonable efforts to comply with the rules despite logistical challenges arising from their overseas residence. Thus, the CA’s resolutions were reversed and set aside, and the case was remanded to the CA for appropriate proceedings.
### Doctrine:
The Supreme Court reiterated the doctrine that verification of a pleading, although mandatory where required by rule or law, should not be interpreted so rigidly as to defeat the ends of justice. Compliance with procedural rules may be relaxed under justifiable circumstances to serve the larger goal of fair adjudication.
### Class Notes:
– **Verification Requirement**: Indicates that the allegations in a pleading are done in good faith and based on true and correct personal knowledge or authentic records. This case exemplifies the importance of context in evaluating compliance, especially for parties dealing with logistical difficulties such as residing overseas.
– **Substantial Compliance in Verification**: The Court recognized that substantial compliance can suffice, especially under challenging circumstances, reinforcing the principle that procedural rules are tools for justice rather than obstacles.
– **Rule 42, Sections 1 and 2**: Details the requirements for a Petition for Review, highlighting the necessity of verification to assure the truthfulness of the allegations contained therein.
### Historical Background:
This case underscores the judiciary’s adaptability and openness to modern realities, such as the widespread use of electronic communications and the challenges faced by overseas litigants. It highlights a balancing act between strict adherence to procedural rules and the overarching pursuit of justice, reflecting the Court’s responsiveness to the evolving landscape of legal practice in a globalized context.
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