Facts:

• In "People vs. De Leon" (G.R. No. 129057), decided on January 22, 2001, Leopoldo and Dominador de Leon were convicted of murder by the Regional Trial Court of Lingayen, Pangasinan.
• The incident occurred on June 13, 1996, in Barangay Lomboy, Binmaley, Pangasinan.
• Eyewitnesses Chito Jimenez (the victim's son) and Annaluz Hilarion testified that Billy de Leon initially attacked Ignacio Jimenez, stabbing him multiple times.
• Leopoldo held Ignacio's arms while Dominador stabbed him in the head.
• Ignacio Jimenez died from his injuries at the Pangasinan Provincial Hospital.
• The defense claimed an alibi, stating Leopoldo and Dominador were elsewhere during the crime.
• The trial court found the alibi unconvincing and convicted the accused based on credible eyewitness testimonies and medical evidence from Dr. Nicanor Arzadon.
• The court acknowledged the presence of conspiracy and the qualifying circumstance of abuse of superior strength.

Issue:

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Ruling:

• The Supreme Court affirmed the trial court's decision, finding no reason to disturb its assessment of the credibility of the prosecution witnesses.
• The defense of alibi was rejected as the identities of the accused were positively established by eyewitnesses.
• The court found sufficient evidence...(Unlock)

Ratio:

• The Supreme Court upheld the trial court's finding that the testimonies of Chito Jimenez and Annaluz Hilarion were credible and consistent in material aspects.
• Minor inconsistencies in the testimonies were deemed insignificant and did not affect their substance.
• The court emphasized that a witness's relationship with the victim does not necessarily tarnish credibility, especially without any improper motive.
• The defense of alibi was considered weak and unconvincing, pa...continue reading