AZNAR vs.

GARCIA
G.R. No. L-16749 January 31, 1963

Facts:
Edward Christensen was born in New York but he migrated to California where he resided
for a period of 9 years. In 1913, he came to the Philippines where he became a domiciliary until his
death. In his will, he instituted an acknowledged natural daughter, Maria Lucy Christensen (legitimate),
as his only heir, but left a legacy sum of money in favor of Helen Christensen Garcia (illegitimate).
Counsel for Helen claims that under Article 16, paragraph 2 of the Civil Code, California law should
be applied; that under California law, the matter is referred back to the law of the domicile. On the
other hand, counsel for Maria, averred that the national law of the deceased must apply, illegitimate
children not being entitled to anything under California law.

Issue:
Whether or not the national law of the deceased should be applied in determining the
successional rights of his heirs.

Ruling:
The Supreme Court deciding to grant more successional rights to Helen said in effect that
there are two rules in California on the matter; the internal law which applies to Californians domiciled
in California and the conflict rule for Californians domiciled outside of California. Christensen being
domiciled in the Philippines, the law of his domicile must be followed. The case was remanded to the
lower court for further proceedings the determination of the successional rights under Philippine
law only.