Technical rules may not apply in administrative cases

Although trial courts are enjoined to observe strict enforcement of the rules on evidence, the same does not hold true for administrative bodies; technical rules applicable to judicial proceedings are not exact replicas of those in administrative investigations. (Sibayan vs. Alda, G.R. No. 233395, Jan. 17, 2018)

In administrative proceedings, a fair and reasonable opportunity to explain one’s side suffices to meet the requirements of due process. (Rep. of the Phils. vs. N. Dela Merced & Sons, Inc., G.R. No. 201501, Jan. 22, 2018)

The rationale and purpose of the summary nature of administrative proceedings is to achieve an expeditious and inexpensive determination of cases without regard to technical rules; in proceedings before administrative or quasi-judicial bodies, like the OGCLS-BSP, decisions may be reached on the basis of position papers or other documentary evidence only; they are not bound by technical rules of procedure and evidence. (Sibayan vs. Alda, G.R. No. 233395, Jan. 17, 2018)