Facts:

• David Saulo y Santos was accused of robbery with homicide against Oscar Ilustre y Ilagan.
• The incident occurred on January 25, 1987, at the victim's residence in Quezon City.
• The accusation involved the unlawful taking of a gold necklace and cash, during which the victim was fatally stabbed with a kitchen knife.
• Witnesses, including Benjamin Berto, testified to hearing moans and witnessing the accused stabbing the victim.
• The accused was subdued while in possession of the victim's necklace and cash.
• The victim succumbed to multiple stab wounds.
• The defense argued that the accused had a consensual relationship with the victim and that the stabbing was accidental.
• The trial court found the accused guilty and sentenced him to reclusion perpetua, ordering indemnification for funeral expenses.

Issue:

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Ruling:

• The trial court's finding of guilt was upheld, confirming the conviction for robbery with homicide.
• The evidence presented by the prosecution was sufficient to overcome the presumption of innocence.
• The penalty was modified to reclusion perpetua, and the award for fun...(Unlock)

Ratio:

• The Supreme Court affirmed the trial court's decision, highlighting the credibility of prosecution witnesses who directly observed the crime.
• Testimonies from domestic helpers who assisted the victim were consistent and credible, countering the defense's claims.
• The Court noted that the absence of blood on the necklace and lack of laboratory examination on the cash did not weaken the pr...continue reading