Case Digest (G.R. No. 219848)
Facts:
- Godofredo Macaraig y Gonzales (accused-appellant) was charged with murder by the People of the Philippines (plaintiff-appellee).
- The incident occurred on May 31, 2011, in Brgy. Salvacion, Baybay, Calabanga, Camarines Sur.
- Macaraig allegedly fatally stabbed Joven Celeste y Malanyaon (victim) with intent to kill.
- The Information indicated that Macaraig attacked Joven with a bladed instrument, resulting in a fatal stab wound.
- Macaraig pleaded not guilty during arraignment.
- Witness Francis Losano testified he saw Macaraig stab Joven from behind at a dance party.
- Joven managed to inform his parents about the assailant before dying from his injuries.
- Medical expert Dr. Daniel Tan confirmed the severity of Joven's stab wound.
- The defense claimed Macaraig was attacked by unidentified men and did not stab Joven.
- The Regional Trial Court (RTC) found Macaraig guilty of murder on October 16, 2013, sentencing him to reclusion perpetua and ordering damages to Joven's heirs.
- The Court of Appeals (CA) affirmed the RTC's decision on November 20, 2014.
- Macaraig appealed to the Supreme Court, asserting self-defense.
Issue:
- (Unlock)
Ruling:
- The Supreme Court dismissed Macaraig's appeal, affirming his conviction for murder.
- The Court upheld the penalties imposed by the lower courts, inclu...(Unlock)
Ratio:
- The Supreme Court found that the prosecution proved Macaraig's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
- Witness testimonies, especially Joven's dying declaration, were credible and compelling.
- The Court noted that self-defense requires the accused to prove unlawful aggress...continue reading
Case Digest (G.R. No. 219848)
Facts:
The case involves Godofredo Macaraig y Gonzales (accused-appellant) and the People of the Philippines (plaintiff-appellee). The events transpired on May 31, 2011, in Brgy. Salvacion, Baybay, Municipality of Calabanga, Province of Camarines Sur. The accused was charged with murder for the fatal stabbing of Joven Celeste y Malanyaon (victim). The Information filed against Macaraig stated that he, with intent to kill and armed with a bladed instrument, attacked Joven, inflicting a stab wound that led to the latter's death. Upon arraignment, Macaraig pleaded not guilty.
The prosecution presented witnesses, including Francis Losano, who testified that he saw Macaraig stab Joven from behind during a dance party. After the attack, Joven managed to reach home and inform his parents about the assailant before succumbing to his injuries. Dr. Daniel Tan, a medical expert, confirmed that Joven suffered a severe stab wound that penetrated vital organs, indicating the use of a sharp instrument.
In contrast, the defense claimed that Macaraig was attacked by unidentified men and that he did not stab Joven but rather evaded an attack. The Regional Trial...