Below is a comprehensive discussion of the small claims procedure in the Philippines as it relates to evidence and discovery. This overview is provided for general informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. For specific concerns, it is always best to consult a qualified attorney or refer to the exact text of the applicable Supreme Court rules.

1. Overview of the Small Claims Procedure

1.1. Purpose and Background

Small claims courts in the Philippines were established to simplify and expedite the resolution of civil claims for small sums of money. The procedural rules governing small claims are contained primarily in A.M. No. 08-8-7-SC, more commonly referred to as the “Rules of Procedure for Small Claims Cases.” These Rules have been amended over the years, notably in 2016 and 2018, with the current monetary threshold set at claims not exceeding ₱1,000,000.

1.2. Scope of Small Claims Cases

Under the Rules, small claims cases typically include:

Claims for money owed under contracts of lease, loan, services, or sale;
Claims for damages arising from the contract, provided the total amount (principal plus interests, penalties, and costs) does not exceed ₱1,000,000.

The rationale behind the small claims system is to allow litigants to pursue relatively minor money claims without the delay and expenses typically associated with more formal and protracted court litigation.

1.3. Key Features

Speedy Disposition: The process is designed for quick resolution, with a one-day hearing in most instances.
No Formal Representation: Parties ordinarily represent themselves (i.e., lawyers generally do not appear in small claims cases unless they are the litigants themselves).
Prohibition on Motions: Certain motions (e.g., motion to dismiss, motion for bill of particulars) are not allowed, preventing procedural delays.

2. Evidence and Discovery in Small Claims

2.1. General Rule: No Formal Discovery

A defining characteristic of the Philippine small claims procedure is the absence of formal discovery mechanisms that exist in ordinary civil actions (such as depositions, interrogatories, or requests for admission). The rationale is to streamline proceedings and reduce delays or technicalities that often arise from formal pre-trial discovery.

Under the Rules, the parties must attach and submit all supporting evidence (documentary or other) along with their:

Statement of Claim (for the plaintiff/claimant)
Response/Answer (for the defendant)

2.2. Documentary Evidence

Submission with Initial Pleadings: All relevant documents—such as contracts, promissory notes, statements of account, receipts, or other written evidence—should be submitted at the outset.
No Need for Strict Formalities: While evidence submission still requires basic compliance with authentication or identification, the strict technical rules of evidence (as in regular trials) are relaxed.
Original vs. Photocopies: Whenever possible, the original documents should be presented. However, certified true copies or clear photocopies are generally acceptable, subject to the judge’s discretion.

2.3. Testimonial Evidence

Limited Witness Presentation: If needed, parties may offer witness testimony during the hearing. However, given that small claims are heard in a single day, any testimonies or clarifications must be concise.
Judge-Driven Inquiry: In small claims proceedings, the judge takes an active role in asking questions and clarifying issues. This means the judge can directly examine parties or witnesses to elicit relevant facts.

2.4. Nature of the Hearing

One-Day Hearing: The Rules mandate a one-day hearing (or as close to that as practicable). The judge is expected to resolve the case immediately or within a short timeframe thereafter.
Relaxed Application of the Rules of Evidence: The court focuses on substantial justice over technicalities. As long as the evidence is relevant, credible, and helps in the just determination of the dispute, it may be admitted and appreciated.
No Lengthy Trial Procedure: The parties present their narratives and evidence, after which the judge usually renders a decision on the same day.

2.5. Judicial Flexibility

While strict discovery procedures are unavailable, the Rules empower the judge to direct or request certain clarifications or supplemental documents if necessary for a just resolution. This is done informally and at the judge’s discretion—there is no separate period or motion for discovery as would be typical in ordinary civil cases.

3. Practical Steps for Parties in Presenting Evidence

Gather All Supporting Documents Early: Since there is no separate discovery phase, the plaintiff and defendant should ensure that all documentary evidence (e.g., contracts, receipts, statements of account) is ready to be submitted with the Statement of Claim or Response.
Organize and Label Exhibits: To avoid confusion during the one-day hearing, parties should label and arrange their evidence for quick reference.
Prepare a Clear Narrative: Because the judge’s inquiry is concise, it helps to present your story in a straightforward manner. Clearly state:
- The nature of the obligation.
- The amount owed and how it was computed.
- Pertinent dates and events.
Anticipate Questions from the Judge: The judge may ask clarifying questions about the transaction and the supporting documents. Have a thorough understanding of your evidence to answer questions directly.

4. Limitations on Evidence and Discovery

No Depositions, Interrogatories, or Formal Requests for Admission: Parties cannot demand extensive details from each other through conventional discovery tools.
No Multi-Day Hearings: Except in very rare cases where the judge deems it necessary, extended or multi-day trials are not available. Everything usually concludes on the same day.
Minimal Motions: Most procedural motions—like a motion to dismiss or motion for extension—are disallowed to preserve the speed of the small claims process.
No Formal Appeal: The decision in a small claims case is generally final and executory. Parties cannot avail themselves of a standard appeal. Only extraordinary remedies (such as a petition for certiorari) are possible in very limited cases.

5. Role of the Court and Judge

5.1. Case Management

Because no formal discovery is conducted, the court has robust case management powers. Before the actual hearing date, the court personnel may:

Examine the submitted statements of claim or defenses for completeness.
Inform parties of any missing attachments.

5.2. Hearing Proper

On the day of the hearing:

Judge’s Preliminary Remarks: The judge may briefly explain the nature of small claims proceedings and verify the identity of the parties.
Presentation of Evidence: The plaintiff briefly states the claim, then the defendant responds. Both sides present any documents or sworn statements if warranted.
Judge’s Questions: The judge then asks clarificatory questions, resolving ambiguities in the documentary evidence or parties’ statements.
Final Arguments (If Any): Parties may be allowed a brief summary of their positions.

5.3. Decision

The judge is expected to decide the case on the same day, if practicable, or soon thereafter. By design, small claims decisions are issued quickly to minimize costs and inconvenience to the parties.

6. Practical Tips and Best Practices

Be Thorough Yet Concise: Since there is no separate discovery phase, be prepared with all the necessary documents and a succinct but complete explanation of your claim or defense.
Anticipate Defenses or Counterclaims: If you are the plaintiff, think about potential defenses the other party might raise. Gather supporting documents or witnesses to refute them.
Follow Court Timelines: Submit any required documents or pleadings by the deadlines indicated. Non-compliance can lead to delays or, worse, dismissal of your claim or striking of your defense.
Maintain Civility and Clarity: Even though lawyers are generally not allowed to appear, you should maintain a respectful attitude and clear communication style. The judge’s time is limited, so a concise and polite approach is most effective.

7. Common Misconceptions

“I can do depositions in small claims.” – No. The Rules prohibit formal discovery tools, including depositions and interrogatories.
“My case will proceed like a full-blown civil trial.” – No. The small claims process is deliberately more informal and expeditious.
“I can appeal if I lose.” – Generally, no. The decision in a small claims case is final and executory. Only in very rare circumstances can a higher court review the case (e.g., if the lower court acted with grave abuse of discretion).
“I need a lawyer to represent me.” – Not typically. Lawyers cannot ordinarily represent parties in small claims proceedings (unless they are one of the parties).

8. Conclusion

In the Philippine context, small claims cases are designed to be resolved quickly and inexpensively. Formal discovery (as seen in ordinary civil actions) is not part of the process. Instead, the parties are expected to submit their evidence upfront with their pleadings, and the judge takes an active, inquisitorial role during the one-day hearing.

This simplified approach aims to achieve speedy justice for litigants pursuing smaller monetary claims. While straightforward, it also places the burden on each party to be well-prepared from the outset. By presenting well-organized, relevant evidence at the time of filing (for the plaintiff) or in the Response (for the defendant), parties maximize their chances of a favorable and efficient resolution.

Disclaimer: This informational guide does not replace official court rules or professional legal counsel. For authoritative guidance, consult the latest version of the Supreme Court’s Rules of Procedure for Small Claims Cases or seek advice from a lawyer knowledgeable in Philippine civil procedure.