Facts:

The case involves the accused-appellants Luis Berja y Versosa and Avelino Barasona y Cundat, who were charged with the murder of Eduardo Jimena. The trial court based its verdict on the testimony of the lone eyewitness for the prosecution, Conchita Zulueta. The accused pleaded not guilty and presented their own version of events, which contradicted Zulueta's testimony. The trial court found all three accused guilty and sentenced them to reclusion perpetua.

Issue:

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Ruling:

The Supreme Court reversed the judgment of the trial court and acquitted the accused. The Court found that the testimony of the eyewitness was unreliable and inconsistent with the facts presented. The Court also noted that the lower court did not properly evaluate the contradictions between the eyewitness's...(Unlock)

Ratio:

The Court explained that in reviewing the credibility of witnesses, it generally defers to the findings of the trial court. However, if there are significant contradictions or inconsistencies in the testimony, the Court may intervene. In this case, the Court found that the eyewitness's testimony was inconsistent with her affidavit and contained substantial contradictions. Therefore, her testimony was deemed unreliable and could not be used to establish the guilt of the accused.

The Court also emphasized that evidence must not only come from a credible witness but must also conform to common knowledge and experience. In this case, the eyewitness's testimony did not meet this requirement. The Court further noted that the accused's d...continue reading