Gaudencio Begosa vs Chairman of the Philippine Veterans Administration

G.R. No. L-25916 – 143 Phil. 391 – 32 SCRA 466 – Political Law – State Immunity from Suit – Suit against public officials ≠ suit against state

Gaudencio Begosa is a World War II veteran who was seeking disability pension from the Philippine Veterans Administration. His claim was approved in 1964 but it was only for a month instead of a month as provided for by R.A. No. 65 as amended by R.A. No. 1362. He then sued the PVA. The PVA moved for dismissal on the ground that the suit against it was a suit against the State; that the State is immune from suit.

ISSUE: Whether or not PVA is correct.

HELD: No. This a suit against PVA officials for them comply with the provisions of law. This is not a suit against the State. It has long been established that a private citizen claiming title to and right of possession of a certain property has the power to sue an officer or agent of the government alleged to be illegally withholding such property.

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