Facts:

• On June 7, 1995, Richard Grajo, the son of Igmidio Grajo, was with a group of friends in front of a store in Tanay, Rizal.
• Richard saw accused-appellants Henry and Nilo Bautista walking behind his father.
• Igmidio ran inside a nearby house to avoid accused-appellants, but they pursued him.
• Igmidio ran outside the house, and accused-appellants caught up with him.
• Henry tried to stab Igmidio, but he was able to evade the thrust.
• Richard came out of the store to help his father, but Nilo held him and punched him in the stomach.
• Henry stabbed Igmidio several times, causing him to fall to the ground.
• Accused-appellants then ran away.
• Igmidio was taken to a hospital where he died.

Issue:

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Ruling:

• The allegation of self-defense is untenable.
• The existence of conspiracy between accused-appellants is proven.
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Ratio:

• The trial court's evaluation of the testimony of witnesses is entitled to great respect.
• Proof of motive is not essential when there is direct testimony regarding the commission of the offense, but it may aid in establishing guilt.
• The defense failed to establish the allegation of self-defense.
• Conspiracy may be deduced from the manner in which the offense is committed.
• Treachery cannot be appreciated when the victim was given time to retreat after seeing his attackers.
• Evident premeditation was not established.
• The aggravating circumstance of abuse of superior strength is present.
• Accused-appellant Henry Bautista is entitl...continue reading