Question

Mr. Santos filed a complaint for quieting of title against Mr. Garcia with the Regional Trial Court (RTC). He alleged that he is the true and lawful owner of a parcel of land covered by Transfer Certificate of Title (TCT) No. 12345, while Mr. Garcia claims ownership based on a separate TCT No. 67890. Both parties presented their respective evidence to prove their claims.

In resolving the case, the RTC ruled in favor of Mr. Santos and ordered the cancellation of Mr. Garcia's TCT No. 67890. Dissatisfied with the decision, Mr. Garcia decided to appeal the case before the Court of Appeals (CA).

Discuss the following:

1. What is the legal basis of quieting of title under the Civil Code? Explain.
2. Can Mr. Garcia appeal the decision of the RTC? State the legal basis of the right to appeal and provide your justification.
3. Assuming that the CA affirms the decision of the RTC, what will be the effect of the cancellation of TCT No. 67890?