Facts:

This case involves the appellant, Alexander Mangitngit, who was charged with three counts of rape against his daughters BBB and CCC. The Regional Trial Court of Palawan and Puerto Princesa City convicted the appellant of the crimes and sentenced him to death in each case. The court also ordered the appellant to pay moral damages to BBB and CCC. The appellant appealed the decision to the Court of Appeals, which affirmed the trial court's ruling. The case was then elevated to the Supreme Court for automatic review.

Issue:

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Ruling:

The Supreme Court ruled that the testimonies of BBB and CCC, which were direct, straightforward, and consistent, were sufficient to support a conviction for rape. The court also noted that the medical evidence corroborated the victims' testimonies. The court rejected the appellant's defenses of denial and alibi, stating that the crime of rape can be committed even when the perpetrator and the victim are not alone. The court also found that the appellant failed to prove that it was physically impossible for him to be present at the place of the crime at the time of its commission.

The Supreme Court affirmed the trial court's imposition of the de...(Unlock)

Ratio:

The Supreme Court based its ruling on the credibility of the victims' testimonies, which were direct, straightforward, and consistent. The court emphasized that the testimonies of child-victims of rape should be given full weight and credence. The court also considered the medical evidence, which supported the victims' claims of sexual abuse. The court rejected the appellant's defenses of denial and alibi, stating that the crime of rape can be committed even when the perpetrator and t...continue reading