Bernabe Africa, et. al vs. Caltex, et. al., G.R. No. L-12986, March 31, 1966
Subject: Obligations and Contracts
FACTS
On March 18, 1948, a fire
broke out at a Caltex gasoline station located at the corner of Rizal Avenue
and Antipolo Street, Manila. The fire was caused by a cigarette that was
carelessly thrown by an unknown person. The fire spread to and burned several
neighboring houses, including the houses of the petitioners.
The petitioners filed a
complaint for damages against Caltex and its agent, Mateo Boquiren. They
alleged that the fire was caused by the negligence of Caltex and Boquiren in
failing to properly supervise their employees and in failing to take adequate
fire safety measures.
ISSUE
Whether or not Caltex and
Boquiren were negligent.
RULING
Yes. The Supreme Court
ruled in favor of the petitioners. The Court found that Caltex and Boquiren
were negligent in failing to properly supervise their employees and in failing
to take adequate fire safety measures. The Court found that Caltex's employees
were smoking near the gasoline tanks, which was a clear violation of the
company's fire safety rules. The Court also found that Caltex had failed to
install adequate fire sprinklers or other fire safety devices at the gasoline
station. The Court held that Caltex and Boquiren were liable for the damages
suffered by the petitioners. The Court awarded the petitioners the sum of
P100,000.00 in damages.
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