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\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 IN THE SUPREME COURT OF GUAM}{\insrsid12073451 
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tqc\tx4680\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12073451 {\b\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 DONGBU INSURANCE COMPANY, LTD.
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tqc\tx4680\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12073451 {\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Defendant-Appellee}{\insrsid12073451 
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tqc\tx4680\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12073451 {\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Supreme Court Case No. CVA00-029
\par Superior Court Case No. CV0183-95}{\insrsid12073451 
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tqc\tx4680\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12073451 {\b\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 OPINION}{\insrsid12073451 
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12073451 {\b\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Filed:}{\b\insrsid12073451  }{\b\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 December 3, 2001}{\insrsid12073451 
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12073451 {\b\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Cite as:}{\b\insrsid12073451  }{\b\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 2001 Guam 24}{\insrsid12073451 
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tqc\tx4680\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12073451 {\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Appeal from the Superior Court of Guam
\par Argued and submitted on September 11, 2001
\par Hag\'e5t\'f1a, Guam}{\insrsid12073451 
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\par }{\ul\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Appearing for the Plaintiff}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 :
\par Daniel J. Berman, Esq.
\par Berman, O}{\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Connor & Mann
\par Suite 503, Bank of Guam Bldg.
\par 111 Chalan Santo Papa
\par Hag\'e5t\'f1a, Guam 96910
\par \cell 
\par }{\ul\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Appearing for the Defendant-Appellee}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 :
\par Thomas C. Sterling, Esq.
\par Klemm, Blair, Sterling & Johnson
\par Suite 1008, Pacific News Bldg.
\par 238 Archbishop F.C. Flores St.
\par Hag\'e5t\'f1a, Guam 96910\cell }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\intbl\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0 {\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 \trowd \irow0\irowband0\lastrow 
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\par }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 BEFORE:}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 PETER C. SIGUENZA, JR., Chief Justice, F. PHILIP CARBULLIDO, Associate Justice, and BENJAMIN J.F. CRUZ, Justice }{\i\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
Pro Tempore}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 .}{\insrsid12073451 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 SIGUENZA, C.J.:}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 [1]}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 \tab Plaintiff-Appellant Guam Housing and Urban Renewal Authority (hereinafter }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 GHURA}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
) filed suit against Defendant-Appellee Dongbu Insurance Company, Ltd. (hereinafter }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Dongbu}{
\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 ) seeking payment on an insurance claim.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
The lower court granted Dongbu}{\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 s motion for summary judgment upon a finding that the policy}{\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
s provision, requiring all claims to be filed within one year after the inception of loss, barred GHURA}{\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 s claim.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
GHURA argues that the doctrine of equitable tolling prevented the contractual statute of limitations from running and therefore the filing of its claim was timely.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
We adopt the doctrine of equitable tolling and find that there are genuine issues of material fact in this case.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Therefore, we reverse the trial court}{\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{
\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 s grant of summary judgment and remand the case for further proceedings.
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tqc\tx4680\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12073451 {\b\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 I.}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12073451 {\b\insrsid12073451 
\par }{\b\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 [2]}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 \tab On August 8, 1993, an earthquake measuring 8.1 on the Richter scale struck Guam.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 At the time of the ea
rthquake, GHURA carried a fire insurance policy whose terms covered damage sustained in an earthquake.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
The policy was provided by Korea Automobile Fire and Marine Insurance Co., Ltd., now operating as Dongbu.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 The policy in effect, No. KMF-1820, contained
 two provisions that are in dispute in the instant case.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
The first required GHURA to file a sworn proof of loss, detailing the value and amount of damages being claimed, within sixty days of the date of loss. The second, and perhaps more important, was a 
contractual statute of limitations, requiring an insured to file suit against Dongbu within twelve months of the date of loss.}{\insrsid7491931 
\par }{\insrsid12073451\charrsid12073451 
\par }{\b\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 [3]}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 \tab Eight days after the earthquake struck, GHURA submitted a signed proof of loss to Dongbu, giving Dongbu initial
 notice that GHURA was claiming damages suffered in the earthquake.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
Cresencio Anas, an adjuster for Dongbu, contacted GHURA and requested a listing of the specific areas and houses that sustained earthquake damage so that Dongbu could inspect them.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 On Oc
tober 5, 1993, GHURA submitted a thirteen page report to Dongbu, identifying the individual buildings and briefly describing the nature of the damages.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
GHURA informed Dongbu that the listing was not final and that further unit-to-unit inspections of the houses would be conducted to detail the damages.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Dongbu did not object or deny liability.}{
\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Neither the submitted proof of loss or the supplemental report included a dollar claim. 
\par }{\b\insrsid12073451 
\par }{\b\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 [4]}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 \tab For the next ten months, Dongbu placed numerous phone calls to GHURA, requesting the final damages listing and an itemized dollar value for each of the losses.}{
\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 On August 18, 1994, GHURA submitted an updated damage assessment report to Dongbu. The update did not have final approval nor did it include itemized dollar amounts.}{\insrsid12073451  }{
\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Later in August, Dongbu conducted inspections on housing units located in Sinajana, Agana Heights, Mongmong, Toto, Yona, Talofofo, Inarajan, Merizo, Umatac, Tumon, and Dededo.}{\insrsid12073451  }{
\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 On November 22, 1994, Dongbu notified GHURA that it denied the claim due to GHURA}{\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
s delay in providing a complete and itemized breakdown of damages claimed.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
On December 9, 1994, GHURA submitted a final damage listing to Dongbu, which included for the first time a dollar amount in the sum of $302,900.00 for damage sustained in approximately 125 separate housing units.
\par }{\b\insrsid12073451 
\par }{\b\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 [5]}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 \tab GHURA filed the underlying Complaint in the Superior Court of Guam seeking to recover the $302,900.00 in damages that Dongbu}{\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{
\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 s refused to pay.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Dongbu responded by filing a Motion to Dismiss for Lack of Prosecution and a Motion for Summary Judgment.}{\insrsid12073451  }{
\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 The trial court denied the Motion to Dismiss but fined GHURA for its failure to move the case forward.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
\par }{\b\insrsid12073451 
\par }{\b\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 [6]}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 \tab Dongbu}{\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 s Motion for Summary Judgment alleged that: (1) GHURA failed to comply with the sixty day 
sworn proof of loss requirement and thereby could not recover under the policy; and (2) the twelve month contractual limitations period barred GHURA}{\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 s claim.}{\insrsid12073451  }{
\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 The trial court granted summary judgment, holding that GHURA}{\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 s failure to submit a proof of loss 
as required under the sixty day provision prevented GHURA from taking advantage of equitable tolling.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Therefore, the claim was barred under the policy}{\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{
\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 s one year limitations period.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 GHURA moved to alter or amend the trial court}{\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
s Decision and Order.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Aft
er allowing additional briefing on the issue of whether Dongbu waived the sixty day sworn proof of loss provision, the trial court rendered a second Decision and Order upholding its grant of Dongbu}{\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{
\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 s Motion for Summary Judgment.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 This appeal followed.
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tqc\tx4680\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12073451 {\b\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 II.
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12073451 {\b\insrsid12073451 
\par }{\b\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 [7]}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 \tab This court has jurisdiction over an appeal of final judgment of the Superior Court of Guam pursuant to Title 7 of the Guam Code Annotated }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451  3107 and 3108(a) (1998).}{\insrsid12073451  }{
\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tqc\tx4680\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12073451 {\b\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 III.}{\b\insrsid7491931 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tqc\tx4680\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12073451 {\insrsid12073451\charrsid12073451 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12073451 {\b\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 [8]}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 \tab There are two separate issues that must be addressed in this appeal.}{\insrsid12073451  }{
\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 First, we must determine whether the trial court}{\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 s grant of summary judgment was improper because GHURA}{\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{
\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 s claim was preserved under the doctrine of equitable tolling.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 A trial court}{\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
s decision to grant summary judgment is reviewed }{\i\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 de novo}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 .}{\insrsid12073451  }{\i\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Iizuka Corp. v. Kawasho Int}{\i\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{
\i\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 l (Guam), Inc.}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 , 1997 Guam 10, }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
 7.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Summary judgment is proper }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
if the pleadings, depositions, answers to interrogatories, and admissions on file, together with the affidavits, if any, show that there is no genuine issue as to any material fact and that the moving party is entitled to a judgment as a matter of law.}{
\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Guam R. Civ. P. 56(c).}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 

\par }{\b\insrsid12073451 
\par }{\b\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 [9]}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 \tab We must also consider whether the trial court}{\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 s denial of Dongbu}{\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{
\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 s motion to dismiss for lack of prosecution is properly before this court.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 If so, then this court must determine whether the trial court erred in denying the motion.}{
\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 The denial of a motion to dismiss is reviewed for an abuse of discretion.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\i\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Santos v. Carney}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 , 1997 Guam 4, }{
\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451  4.}{\insrsid7491931 
\par }{\insrsid12073451\charrsid12073451 
\par }\pard \qj \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12073451 {\b\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 A.\tab Equitable Tolling
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12073451 {\b\insrsid12073451 
\par }{\b\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 [10]}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 \tab GHURA is asking the court to adopt the equitable tolling doctrine and apply it to the facts of this case.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
Equitable tolling suspends the running of a limitations period from the time an insured files a timely claim until the time that an insurer denies the claim.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\i\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Prudential}{
\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 , 798 P.2d at 1242, 51 Cal. 3d at 693; }{\i\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 see also Jang v. State Farm Fire & Cas. Co.}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
, 95 Cal. Rptr. 2d 917, 925, 80 Cal. App. 4th 1291, 1302 (Ct. App. 2000); }{\i\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 see also Peloso v. Hartford Fire Ins. Co.}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 , 267 A.2d 498, 501 (N.J. 1970).}{\insrsid12073451  }{
\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Because the application of equitable tolling is a matter of first impression for our court, we take this opportunity to review the purpose and policy supporting the doctrine.
\par }{\b\insrsid12073451 
\par }{\b\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 [11]}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 \tab The purpose of equitable tolling is to protect an insured}{\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
s claim during the time an insurer is conducting its investigation, thereby avoiding the premature filing of a suit before an insurer has even denied the claim.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\i\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Prudential}{
\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 , 798 P.2d at 1238, 51 Cal. 3d at 687.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 It would be anomalous and inefficient for an
 insured to bring a lawsuit before the insurance company has had the opportunity to complete its inquiry and render its decision.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
In order to prevent excess litigation, the time a claimant has to bring a claim is tolled.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 This practice encourages the sett
lement of claims by requiring an insurer to investigate claims diligently before denying liability and simultaneously securing an insured}{\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 s rights.}{\insrsid12073451  }{
\i\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Id.}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451  at 1241, 51 Cal. 3d at 692.}{\insrsid7491931 
\par }{\insrsid12073451\charrsid12073451 
\par }{\b\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 [12]}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 \tab Safeguarding the claim during this interim period also prevents an insurer from stalling the processing of a claim in order to invoke a technical forfeiture of the policy}{
\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 s benefits.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\i\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Id.}{\i\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
Without equitable tolling, an insurer may wait until the statute of limitations has expired before denying coverage.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 An i
nsurer may also purposely conduct a lengthy investigation, hoping to lull the policy holder into thinking the claim will be settled, and then deny coverage after the twelve months have expired.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
The doctrine of equitable tolling protects the reasonable expectations of the insured by demanding good faith and fair dealing on behalf of the insurer.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\i\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Id.}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
\par }{\b\insrsid12073451 
\par }{\b\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 [13]}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 \tab Finally, the doctrine of equitable tolling remains consistent with the policies underlying the imposition of a limitations period.}{\insrsid12073451  }{
\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 A statute of limitations prevents unfair surprise and promotes justice by leaving stale claims in slumber.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\i\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Id.}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
 at 1236, 1242, 51 Cal. 3d at 684, 692.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 An insurer must receive prompt notice of a claim in order to properly adjust valid claims and guard against invalid ones.}{\insrsid12073451  }{
\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 However, an insured is likewise entitled to the time necessary to initially prepare a claim and later pursue legal remedies.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
Equitable tolling runs the period of limitation at the time the insurer incurs the loss and after liability is formally declined; time only ceases when the claim is placed in the hands of the insured.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
Thus, the insured, whose rights are restricted within a limited time frame, is not penalized for time consumed by the insurance company in pursuing its contractual and statutory rights.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\i\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Peloso}{
\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 , 267 A.2d at 501.}{\insrsid7491931 
\par }{\insrsid12073451\charrsid12073451 
\par }{\b\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 [14]}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 \tab Many jurisdictions that decline to adopt equitable tolling rely instead on principles of waiver and estoppel to allow a suit to be filed after the limitations period expired.
}{\insrsid12073451  }{\i\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Prudential}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 , 798 P.2d}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 at 1240, 51 Cal. 3d at 689-90.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
However, as noted by the }{\i\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Peloso}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451  court, }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 [equitable tolling] is more satisfactory, and more easily applied, than the pursuit of the concepts of waiver and estoppel in each of the many factual patterns which may arise.}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12073451  }{\i\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Peloso}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 , 267 A.2d at 502.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
In light of this consideration and the above discussed policies, this court hereby follows the developing trend and adopts equitable tolling as law in this jurisdiction.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
Although the doctrine has been applied in varying forms across jurisdictions, }{\i\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Prudential}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 , 798 P.2d at 1240-41, 51 Cal. 3d at 688-89, Guam adopts it in accordance with the majority.}{
\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Thus, the timely filing of a claim triggers tolling and tolling stops once the claim is formally denied.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
The court must now determine whether equitable tolling saves GHURA}{\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 s claim in the instant case.}{\cs15\super\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain 
\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\fs20\super\insrsid7491931 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid7491931 
 While this court prefers the application of equitable tolling to the facts of this case, we also note that the m
ore traditional doctrines of waiver and estoppel may provide an alternative ground upon which GHURA can lay its claim.  It could be argued that conduct by Dongbu constituted a waiver of the policy}{\fs20\insrsid14360720 '}{\fs20\insrsid7491931 
s one year limitations period.  It could also be argued that Dongbu}{\fs20\insrsid14360720 '}{\fs20\insrsid7491931 
s conduct estops it from seeking enforcement of the limitations provision.  Although GHURA raises the waiver issue briefly at the appellate level, we find the record devoid of any reference to these issues at the trial court, thereby precluding ou
r further review.}}}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
\par }{\b\insrsid12073451 
\par }{\b\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 [15]}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 \tab Equitable tolling requires the insured to file a timely proof of loss.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Under GHURA}{\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}
{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 s policy, a proof of loss must be sworn, complete with an inventory of all damages and amounts being claimed, and filed within sixty days after the loss is incurred.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
It is undisputed that GHURA failed to strictly comply with these conditions.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Therefore, the first step of this court}{\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
s inquiry is to determine whether Dongbu waived strict compliance with the policy}{\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 s sixty day sworn proof of loss provision.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
The trial court concluded that there was no evidence indicating wavier by Dongbu.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 We disagree.}{\insrsid7491931 
\par }{\insrsid12073451\charrsid12073451 
\par }{\b\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 [16]}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 \tab Waiver is the intentional relinquishment of a known right.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\i\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Id.}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
 at 1240, 51 Cal. 3d at 689.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Whether an insurer waived strict compliance with a policy}{\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
s proof of loss provision is generally a question of fact for the jury to determine.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\i\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Estrada v. Queen Ins. Co.}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
, 290 P. 525, 526, 107 Cal. App. 504, 508 (Ct. App. 1930).}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 However, where the facts are undisputed, waiver may be determined as a matter of law.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\i\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
Scheetz v. IMT Ins. Co.}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 , 324 N.W.2d 302, 304 (Iowa 1982).}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Since the insurer is the party holding the right, it is the only party that can waive the right.}{
\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Thus, when considering evidence of waiver, the fact finder should focus on the actions and conduct of the insurance company, and not the insured.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\i\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
Id.}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451  
\par }{\b\insrsid12073451 
\par }{\b\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 [17]}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 \tab The parties here do not dispute the facts surrounding Dongbu}{\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
s waiver of strict compliance with the proof of loss provision.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 GHURA submitted both a preliminary proof of loss and a thirteen page list of damaged homes to Dongbu within sixty days of the earthquake.
}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 However, GHURA failed to furnish Dongbu with a complete and final inventory that was sworn and that included respective dollar 
amounts. In its subsequent communications, Dongbu did not inform GHURA that failure to submit a sworn proof of loss with itemized dollar amounts within the sixty days would lead to a denial of the claim.}{\insrsid12073451  }{
\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Failure to specifically object to an inadequate proof of loss constitutes a waiver.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Title 22 GCA }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451  18605, 18606 (2000); }{\i\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
State Mut. Ins. Co. v. Green}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 , 166 P. 105, 112 (Okla. 1915).}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Because Dongbu never expressed to GH
URA that its preliminary submission was insufficient to satisfy the proof of loss requirements, it waived its right to seek strict }{\insrsid12073451 compliance with that provision.}{\insrsid7491931 
\par }{\insrsid12073451\charrsid12073451 
\par }{\b\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 [18]}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 \tab A waiver can also be shown by the affirmative acts of a party or by conduct that supports the conclusion that waiver was intended.}{\insrsid12073451  }{
\i\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 See}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451  22 GCA }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451  18606; }{
\i\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 see also State Mut.}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 , 166 P. at 111 (citation omitted); }{\i\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 see also Estrada, }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 290 P. at 526, 107 Cal. App. at 507.}{
\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Here, Dongbu continued to request a more complete listing of damages after the sixty days expired, fully expecting GHURA to comply and submit its final claim.}{\insrsid12073451  }{
\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 If Dongbu intended to enforce strict compliance with the sixty day provision, then there would be no reason to request that GHURA further cooperate and complete its proof of loss.}{\insrsid12073451  }{
\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Clearly, Dongbu}{\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 s conduct is inconsistent with a demand to exact strict compliance with the sixty day provision.}{\insrsid12073451  }{
\i\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Cf.}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451  }{\i\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Green v. Gen. Accident Ins. Co.}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 , 746 P.2d 152, 155 (N.M. 1987) (finding that conduct by a
n insurer revealed its intention to waive policy restrictions and negotiate further).
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 [19]}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 \tab In short, Dongbu failed to specifically object to the inadequacy of GHURA}{\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
s proof of loss and later requested action by GHURA after the provision}{\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 s time limit lapsed.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
Under both Guam statutory law and persuasive case law of other jurisdictions, these actions constitute a waiver of strict compliance of proof of loss requirements.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
Additionally, Dongbu conceded during oral arguments before this court that it waived enforcement of the sworn and sixty day requirements under that provision.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
Therefore, we find as a matter of law that Dongbu waived its right to demand GHURA strictly comply with the policy}{\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 s proof of loss provision.}{\insrsid12073451  }{
\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 In addition, we find that Dongbu completely waived the right to demand GHURA file a proof of loss be within sixty days and t}{\insrsid12073451 hat the proof of loss be sworn.}{\insrsid7491931 
\par }{\insrsid12073451\charrsid12073451 
\par }{\b\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 [20]}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 \tab A finding that Dongbu waived its right to demand strict compliance with the policy}{\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
s proof of loss provision does not resolve the central issue in this case.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 It remains unclear whether the proof of loss GHURA did provide is sufficient to trigger equitable tolling.}{\insrsid12073451  
}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Aside from the sixty day and notary requirements, the proof of loss provision has a content requirement.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
Specifically, the policy requires that the proof of loss contain a complete inventory of damaged and undamaged property, detailing quantities, costs, actual cash value, and amount of loss claimed.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
Although Dongbu waived the right to demand that the substance of GHURA}{\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 s proof of loss strictly comply with the provision}{\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{
\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 s requirements, GHURA must still show that it gave Dongbu some degree of notice.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 An insurance policy}{\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{
\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 s notice requirements can be satisfied with substantial compliance.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\i\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 See Green}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 , 746 P.2d at 154.}{\insrsid12073451  }{
\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Therefore, the next step in this court}{\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
s inquiry is to determine whether, viewing all facts in a light most favorable to GHURA, there is sufficient evidence for a jury to find that GHURA substantially complied with the proof of loss requirements set forth in its policy.}{\insrsid7491931 

\par }{\insrsid12073451\charrsid12073451 
\par }{\b\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 [21]}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 \tab Substantial compliance occurs when the essential purpose of a contract is fulfilled.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\i\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Fehring v. Republic Ins. Co.}{
\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 , 347 N.W.2d 595, 599 (Wis. 1984), }{\i\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 overruled on other grounds by}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451  }{\i\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Dechant v. Monarch Life Ins. Co.}{
\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 , 547 N.W.2d 592 (Wis. 1996) (quoting }{\i\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Davis v. Allstate Ins. Co.}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 , 303 N.W.2d 596 (Wis. 1981)).}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
The essential purpose of a notice provision is to enable the insurer to promptly investigate the facts surrounding the claim while evidence is still fresh and witnesses are still available.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\i\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
Fremichael v. Doe}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 , 472 S.E.2d 440, 443 (Ga. 1996); }{\i\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 see also Fehring}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 , 347 N.W.2d at 599 (citation omitted).}{\insrsid12073451  }{
\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Thus, an insured may establish substantial compliance with a notice provision by showing that the insured had actual knowledge of the claim and sufficient information by which to initiate its investigation.}{
\insrsid12073451  }{\i\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 See Fremichael}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 , 472 S.E.2d at 701 (finding the underlying purpose of the notice requirement fulfilled by insurer}{\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{
\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 s actual knowledge of the claim); }{\i\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 see also Green}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
, 746 P.2d at 154 (holding that an insured substantially complied with the notice requirements of his policy when he notified the insurer of his loss and provided the insurer with a report of the items stolen).}{\insrsid12073451  }{
\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
\par }{\b\insrsid12073451 
\par }{\b\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 [22]}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 \tab }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
[S]ufficiency of compliance with the notice provision, justification for non-compliance, and diligence are questions of fact which must be resolved by a jury.}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12073451  }{\i\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Fremichael}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 , 472 S.E.2d at 443; }{\i\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 see also Reed v. Pac. Indem. Co.}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
, 225 P.2d 255, 261, 101 Cal. App. 2d 151, 159 (Ct. App. 1950).}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 In }{\i\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Fremichael}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 , the court reversed the lower court}{
\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 s granting of summary judgment after concluding that the insured gave reasonable notice of his claim and that the insurance company had actual knowledge of the claim.}{\insrsid12073451 
 }{\i\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Fremichael}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 , 472 S.E.2d at 443.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
The court found these facts sufficient to raise several issues of material fact, such as the sufficiency of the notice, which the lower court erred in not submitting to the jury.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\i\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Id.}{
\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Likewise, in }{\i\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Fehring}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
 the court found that because the insured immediately notified the insurer of a loss and because the insurer was able to begin an investigation, there was sufficient evidence for a jury to conclude that the insured substantially complied with the policy}{
\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 s notice requirement.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\i\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Fehring}{\insrsid12073451 , 347 N.W.2d at 600.}{\insrsid7491931 
\par }{\insrsid12073451\charrsid12073451 
\par }{\b\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 [23]}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 \tab Similarly, there is sufficient evidence contained in the instant case by which a jury could conclude that GHURA substantially complied with its policy}{
\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 s notice provision.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
Within eight days of the earthquake, GHURA informed Dongbu that its housing units suffered damage and that it would be making a claim.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
Two months later, GHURA submitted to Dongbu a thirteen page report that listed the specific units that had suffered damaged and described the type of damage each sustained.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
Although GHURA delivered two revised reports over the course of the following year, neither differed significantly from the original report.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Only the last and final report contained dollar 
amounts for each item of damage.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Before receiving that final report, Dongbu conducted an inspection of several of the damaged properties.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
These facts reveal that Dongbu received actual and timely notice of the claim, and that Dongbu had the ability to investigate the claim}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 absent itemized dollar amounts.}{\insrsid12073451  }{
\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Thus, a jury could find that GHURA fulfilled the underlying purpose of the notice requirement and substantially complied with the policy.}{\insrsid7491931 
\par }{\insrsid12073451\charrsid12073451 
\par }{\b\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 [24]}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 \tab Clearly, there is a genuine issue of fact whether GHURA filed a proof of loss sufficient to trigger equitable tolling.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
A finding by the jury that GHURA}{\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
s thirteen page report was sufficient proof of loss would begin the tolling, preventing the one year statute of limitations from running and preserving GHURA}{\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 s claim.}{
\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Substantial compliance with a notice provision is an issue of fact and obviously material to the matter at hand.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\i\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 See Fremichael}{
\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 , 472 S.E.2d at 443.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Therefore, the granting of}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Dongbu}{\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{
\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 s motion for summary judgment was in error.}{\b\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
\par 
\par }\pard \qj \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12073451 {\b\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 B.\tab The trial court}{\b\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{\b\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 s denial of Dongbu}{
\b\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{\b\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 s motion to dismiss for failure to prosecute will not be considered by this court because the issue was improperly raised on appeal.}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12073451 {\b\insrsid12073451 
\par }{\b\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 [25]}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 \tab Dongbu requested that this court consider its motion to dismiss for failure to prosecute as an alternative ground for affirming the lower court}{
\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 s holding that GHURA is precluded from bringing its case.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 We decline to review the trial court}{\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '
}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 s decision denying Dongbu}{\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 s motion to dismiss.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
Under our Rules of Appellate Procedure, a party must file a timely notice of appeal in order to raise an issue on appeal.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Guam R. App. P. 3(a), 4.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
Dongbu}{\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 s failure to file a cross-appeal with respect to this issue precludes our review.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
Therefore, this court will not consider it as an alternative ground for affirming the lower court. 
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tqc\tx4680\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12073451 {\b\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 IV.}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12073451 {\b\insrsid12073451 
\par }{\b\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 [26]}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 \tab In summary, after considering the purpose and policies underlying the doctrine of equitable tolling, we adopt the doctrine as law in this jurisdiction.}{\insrsid12073451  }{
\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 Its application to the facts of the instant case raises an issue of material fact that can only be appropriately addressed by a jury.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 
Therefore, we hold that the instant case was not properly disposed of by summary judgment.}{\insrsid12073451  }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 The trial court}{\insrsid14360720\charrsid12073451 '}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 s decision is hereby }{
\b\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 REVERSED}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451  and the matter }{\b\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 REMANDED}{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451  to the trial court for further proceedings consistent with this opinion.}{
\insrsid12073451 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12073451 {\insrsid12073451 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12073451 {\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 BENJAMIN J.F. CRUZ\tab \tab \tab \tab F. PHILIP CARBULLIDO
\par Justice Pro Tempore\tab \tab }{\insrsid11223567 \tab }{\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 \tab \tab Associate Justice}{\insrsid12073451 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12073451 {\insrsid12073451 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12073451 {\insrsid7491931\charrsid12073451 PETER C. SIGUENZA, JR.
\par Chief Justice
\par }}