The Supreme Court recently issued a ruling stating that claimants who have entered into an illegal government contract cannot rely on the principle of quantum meruit if they fail to appeal a disallowance by the Commission on Audit (COA) within the designated timeframe. In the case of a printing company, the Court dismissed their petition, emphasizing that once a decision has reached finality, the principle of quantum meruit should no longer be applicable.

Quantum meruit is an equitable remedy that aims to provide restitution for unjust enrichment. However, in this particular situation, the Court underlined the importance of adhering to procedural rules and preserving the immutability of judgments.

The doctrine of immutability of judgments holds that final and executory judgments cannot be altered or amended, with only a few exceptions. The Supreme Court stressed the significance of upholding this principle, stating that leniency should not be granted to parties who violate fundamental procedural rules and laws.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: What is the principle of quantum meruit?
A: Quantum meruit is an equitable remedy that allows for restitution to be provided for unjust enrichment.

Q: Can claimants rely on quantum meruit if they fail to appeal a COA disallowance in time?
A: No, according to the recent Supreme Court ruling, claimants cannot invoke the principle of quantum meruit if they do not appeal a COA disallowance within the designated timeframe.

Q: What does it mean for a judgment to reach finality?
A: When a judgment becomes final and executory, it means that it cannot be changed or amended, except for a limited set of exceptions.

Q: Why did the Supreme Court stress the immutability of judgments in this case?
A: The Court emphasized the importance of adhering to procedural rules and laws, and underscored that leniency should not be granted to parties who violate these fundamental principles.

(Source: GMA Integrated News)