The distinction between a question of law and a question of fact was
comprehensively discussed in the case of Microsoft Corporation v. Maxicorp, Inc.,
[25]
thus:
The distinction between questions of law and questions of fact is
settled. A question of law exists when the doubt or difference centers on what the
law is on a certain state of facts. A question of fact exists if the doubt centers on
the truth or falsity of the alleged facts. Though this delineation seems simple,
determining the true nature and extent of the distinction is sometimes
problematic. For example, it is incorrect to presume that all cases where the facts
are not in dispute automatically involve purely questions of law.
There is a question of law if the issue raised is capable of being resolved
without need of reviewing the probative value of the evidence. The resolution of
the issue must rest solely on what the law provides on the given set of
circumstances. Once it is clear that the issue invites a review of the evidence
presented, the question posed is one of fact. If the query requires a re-evaluation
of the credibility of witnesses, or the existence or relevance of surrounding
circumstances and their relation to each other, the issue in that query is factual.[26]
In this case, the issues brought for our consideration calls for the re-
examination of the evidence presented by the parties and the determination of
whether the Labor Arbiter, the NLRC, and the Court of Appeals erred in their
respective evaluation of the same. This we cannot do without blurring the
difference between a question of fact and a question of law – a significant
distinction as far as the remedy of appeal by certiorari is concerned.
Furthermore, factual findings of administrative agencies that are affirmed by
the Court of Appeals are conclusive on the parties and not reviewable by this
Court.[27] This is so because of the special knowledge and expertise gained by
these quasi-judicial agencies from presiding over matters falling within their
jurisdiction.[28] So long as these factual findings are supported by substantial
evidence, this Court will not disturb the same.[29]
As earlier stated, in this case, the Labor Arbiter, the NLRC, and the Court of
Appeals are unanimous in their factual conclusions that Wallan Al Wallan is not an
accredited principal of respondent Skills International and we sustain said
findings. As aptly observed by the NLRC –