Republic of the Philippines vs.

Hubilla

Facts: On March 5, 1999, respondents filed an application for registration of title to a lot situated in Alaminos, Laguna. They presented the ff: a) blueprint copy; b) technical description; c) certification from DENR and CENRO; d) report from the Land Management Bureau; and e) tax declarations.

Petitioner argued that application should not be granted because the original tracing cloth plan was not submitted. Petitioner expressed that the original tracing cloth plan is a mandatory requirement. Issue: WON application for registration to land should not be granted because of the non-inclusion of original tracing cloth plan n the pieces of evidence submitted. Held: The Supreme Court has recognized instances of substantial compliance with the rule that the submission in evidence of the original tracing cloth plan duly approved is a mandatory requirement; blueprint copies of the original tracing cloth plan and other evidence could also provide sufficient identification to identify a piece of land for registration purposes. Application for registration may be granted.