Question

Mr. Santos owns a parcel of land near the seashore in a coastal town. The local government council passed a resolution declaring that the said land shall be used for the construction of a public park. Mr. Santos strongly opposes this declaration and claims that the land is his personal property and not subject to being classified as public domain.

Discuss the classification of property in relation to Mr. Santos' claim. Cite the relevant provisions of the Civil Code (specifically Articles 419-425) governing the classification of public dominion, patrimonial, and private property. Explain whether Mr. Santos' claim is valid or not under the given circumstances.

• List the essential elements for a property to be classified as public dominion.
• Explain the criteria for classifying property as patrimonial or private.
• Discuss the implications of classifying Mr. Santos' land as public dominion or private property.