Laches

On the other hand, laches, being rooted in equity, is not always to be applied strictly in a way that would obliterate an otherwise valid claim especially between blood relatives. The existence of a confidential relationship based upon consanguinity is an important circumstance for consideration; hence, the doctrine is not to be applied mechanically as between near relatives (Estate of Margarita D. Cabacungan, represented by Luz Laigo-Ali Vs. Marilou Laigo, et al., G.R. No. 175073. August 15, 2011).