Civil Code · Book III: Different Modes of Acquiring Ownership · Title IV: Succession

Article 961

Chapter 3: Legal or Intestate Succession · Sec. 1: General Provisions

Unamended since 1950

Current text, as of October 24, 2026

In default of testamentary heirs, the law vests the inheritance, in accordance with the rules hereinafter set forth, in the legitimate and illegitimate relatives of the deceased, in the surviving spouse, and in the State. (913a)

Consolidated by Alleba from the text of Republic Act No. 386 (Lawphil and the Supreme Court E-Library). Book I provisions on marriage, family relations and parental authority were repealed by the Family Code (Executive Order No. 209, 1987) and are shown for reference only. For information and research only, and not legal advice. For certified copies, refer to the Official Gazette or the issuing agency.