Facts:

• Elpidio Cabading is the accused-appellant; the People of the Philippines is the plaintiff-appellee.
• The incident occurred on August 8, 1978, in Brgy. Naguilian, La Union.
• Complainant Benita Huliganga was at her grandfather's house with her siblings while her husband was away.
• At around 10:00 PM, while breastfeeding, Benita heard a noise at the door, thinking it was her husband.
• She recognized Elpidio Cabading, a neighbor, when he raised her mosquito net.
• Cabading covered her mouth, climbed on top of her, and sexually assaulted her.
• Despite her resistance, Benita could not escape due to Cabading's strength.
• He threatened her not to disclose the incident.
• The next morning, she reported the assault to her family, leading to a police report and medical examination.
• The medical exam showed no spermatozoa or significant injuries, only a minor facial abrasion.
• Cabading claimed an alibi, stating he was home with his family during the incident.
• The Regional Trial Court convicted Cabading of simple rape, sentencing him to reclusion perpetua and ordering indemnification to the victim.
• Cabading appealed the conviction.

Issue:

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Ruling:

• The Supreme Court reversed and set aside the Regional Trial Court's decision, acquitting...(Unlock)

Ratio:

• The Supreme Court highlighted the necessity for extreme caution in rape cases due to the severe penalties and the risk of wrongful conviction.
• The evidence from the complainant did not meet the standard of moral certainty required for a conviction.
• Doubts arose from the complainant's lack of evident resistance during the assault, which was inconsistent with typical victim behavior.
• The complainant did not shout or struggle significantly, raising questions about her credibility.
• The assertion that Cabading held a knife was co...continue reading