Facts:

• Ernesto G. De Leon, also known as Erning Demonio, was charged with the murder of Albert Capistrano y Araullo.
• The incident occurred on March 1, 1992, at the Capistrano family residence in Malabon, Metro Manila.
• At the time, Alvin Capistrano (14 years old), his mother Violeta, and sister Agnes were present at home.
• De Leon arrived at the house armed with a gun, demanding to know the whereabouts of his wife and causing a disturbance.
• Alvin went to fetch his father, who was at a nearby baptismal party.
• Upon their return, De Leon pointed a gun at Alvin and shot Albert Capistrano twice, resulting in his death.
• Alvin sought help from neighbors, hearing six gunshots during the incident.
• De Leon fled the scene and had a history of threatening the Capistrano family.
• An autopsy confirmed that Albert died from gunshot wounds.
• The Regional Trial Court found De Leon guilty of murder, sentencing him to reclusion perpetua and ordering indemnification for the victim's heirs.
• De Leon appealed, claiming the trial court erred in its judgment.

Issue:

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Ruling:

• The Supreme Court ruled that the trial court did not err in finding De Leon guilty of homicide instead of murder.
• The Court determined that the qualifying circumsta...(Unlock)

Ratio:

• The Supreme Court upheld the trial court's conviction of De Leon for homicide, citing credible and consistent evidence, particularly Alvin Capistrano's testimony.
• Alvin's actions in seeking help were deemed natural for a distressed child, and his testimony was credible despite the absence of physical injuries.
• The Court emphasized that the trial court is best positioned to assess witness credibility based on demeanor.
• However, the Court fo...continue reading