Geluz vs. CA and Lazo

by Atty. Bryan Villarosa
Updated on: October 1, 2022

Post updated on: [last-modified]

G.R. No. L-16439

Facts

Nita Villanueva voluntarily procured abortion three times with Geluz as the physician. She did it without the consent of her husband. Upon knowing the last abortion, Oscar Lazo filed for damages against Dr. Geluz. Trial court awarded damages to the husband. CA affirmed.

Issue and Ruling:

Can the husband recover damages against the physician who caused the abortion?

No. The husband’s usage of Article 2206 of the New Civil Code is misplaced. It does not cover an unborn fetus. The father cannot act on behalf of the dead child. The conceived child only has a provisional personality but no juridical personality. Therefore, a father cannot claim damages in behalf of the aborted child.

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