G.R. No. 192180 - People vs. Alfredo Delabajan

The case involves Alfredo Delabajan (appellant) and alias Kino Lascano (at large), who were accused of raping AAA, a blind woman. The appellant appealed the decision of the Court of Appeals (CA), which affirmed with modification the Regional Trial Court (RTC) decision finding him guilty of three counts of rape.

AAA testified that on the night of the incident, the appellant and Kino entered her house, threatened to kill her, and took turns raping her. She recognized her assailants by their voices, as they were her neighbors and frequent visitors to her home.
AAA’s testimony was corroborated by the medical findings of Dr. Ethel Simeon, who confirmed signs of sexual abuse.

The appellant claimed he was gathering coconuts in Sitio Pasakayon at the time of the crime, which is a 30-minute walk from the crime scene. He also alleged that AAA was instigated by Wawing Lascano to falsely accuse him.

The RTC found the appellant guilty of three counts of rape, sentencing him to reclusion perpetua for each count and ordering him to pay civil indemnity and moral damages.
The CA modified the RTC decision, convicting the appellant of six counts of qualified rape, citing his active participation in the crime.

Whether the prosecution sufficiently proved the elements of rape under Article 266-A of the Revised Penal Code.
Whether conspiracy existed between the appellant and Kino Lascano in committing the rapes.
Whether the appellant’s defense of alibi and claim of instigation by Wawing Lascano are credible.
Whether the appellant should be convicted of six counts of rape, as ruled by the CA, or fewer counts.
Whether the penalties and civil indemnities imposed by the lower courts are proper.