Bishop Shinji Amari of Abiko Baptist Church, represented by Shinji Amari and Missionary Baptist Institute and Seminary, represented by its Director Joel P. Nepomuceno Vs. Ricardo R. Villaflor, Jr. G.R. No. 224521. February 17, 2020

Bishop Shinji Amari of Abiko Baptist Church, represented by Shinji Amari and Missionary Baptist Institute and Seminary, represented by its Director Joel P. Nepomuceno Vs. Ricardo R. Villaflor, Jr. G.R. No. 224521. February 17, 2020

Alexander Gesmudo

https://elibrary.judiciary.gov.ph/thebookshelf/showdocs/1/66079

separate concurring opinions
 * Marvic Leonen
 * Rodil Zalameda

Issues
These subject matters and how they prepare or educate their ministers are ecclesiastical in nature which the State cannot regulate unless there is clear violation of secular laws. It follows, therefore, that even his alleged exclusion as instructor is beyond the power of review by the State considering that this is purely an ecclesiastical affair. It is up to the members of the religious congregation to determine whether their minister still lives up to the beliefs they stand for, continues to share his knowledge, and remains an exemplar of faith to the members of their church.

Respondent's claim of illegal dismissal is dependent on the existence of the employer-employee relationship.

Decisions
WHEREFORE, premises considered, the instant Petition is hereby GRANTED. The October 27, 2015 Decision and April 26, 2016 Resolution of the Court of Appeals in CA-G.R. SP No. 08067 are REVERSED and SET ASIDE. Accordingly, the July 15, 2013 Decision of the National Labor Relations Commission dismissing the case for lack of jurisdiction is hereby REINSTATED.