Question

Aileen, a Filipino citizen, recently gave birth to a baby girl named Sofia. Unfortunately, due to complications during childbirth, Aileen passed away shortly after giving birth. At the time of her death, Aileen was unmarried and had not executed a will. The father of the child, Ben, is also a Filipino citizen, but he has not acknowledged paternity and has shown no interest in assuming parental responsibility for Sofia.

Based on the given scenario, answer the following questions:

1. Is the baby girl Sofia considered a natural person under Philippine law? Explain.
2. What is the effect of Aileen's death on Sofia's civil personality? Discuss the relevant provisions of the Civil Code.
3. Can Ben be compelled to assume parental responsibility for Sofia? Explain the legal implications of his refusal to acknowledge paternity.