Austria vs NLRC (Labor Law)

Austria vs NLRC and Cebu City Central Philippines Union Mission Corporation of the Seventh Day Adventist

GR No. 124382

August 16, 1999

Facts: 

The Central Philippine Union Mission Corporation of the Seventh day Adventist (SDA) is a religious corporation to which Pastor Austria has worked as an evangelist. He advanced position under a promotion until his services were terminated due to an alleged unremitted offerings collected by his wife and several other altercations with other fellow Pastors. Austria filed for Illegal Dismissal against the SDA and was given a favorable decision. When elevated to the NLRC, SDA received a favorable decision. Thus, Austria now questioned the jurisdiction in this case. 

Issue: 

Does the NLRC has jurisdiction over this case?

Ruling: 

Yes. This case does not concern an ecclesiastical or purely religious affair as to  bar the State from taking cognizance from the same. What is involved here is the relationship of the church as an employer and the minister as an employee. It is purely secular and has no relation with the practice of faith. In this case, petitioner was not excommunicated but was terminated from employment. Coupled with this act, it is evident that the SDA furnished the NLRC with the copy of the petitioner‘s letter of termination. It is an eloquent admission of the jurisdiction of the NLRC.