Facts:

• In "People vs. Bautista," Tomas Bautista was charged with qualified seduction.
• The complaint was filed by Marcela Sempio on November 3, 1917, in San Pedro Makati, Rizal Province.
• Marcela alleged that in February 1915, Bautista, a boarder in her parents' house, seduced her with promises of love and marriage when she was 12 years and 2 months old.
• Marcela gave birth to a baby girl in June 1916, whom Bautista recognized but later abandoned in May 1917.
• The preliminary investigation led to the Court of First Instance of Rizal, where an information was filed on December 22, 1917.
• Bautista pleaded not guilty, but the court found him guilty beyond reasonable doubt.
• He was sentenced to four months of arresto mayor, ordered to recognize and support his daughter, indemnify Marcela with P500, and pay the costs of the proceedings.
• Bautista's counsel argued that the complaint was invalid as it was filed by Marcela, a minor, but the motion to dismiss was overruled.
• The case was appealed to the Supreme Court.

Issue:

• (Unlock)

Ruling:

1. Yes, a minor can file a valid complaint for the crime of seduction without the intervention of her parents, grandparents, or guardian.
2. Yes, the Cour...(Unlock)

Ratio:

• The Supreme Court ruled that under Act No. 1773, seduction is a public crime and must be prosecuted like other crimes defined by the Penal Code and Philippine legislative acts.
• The complaint filed by Marcela Sempio, despite her being a minor, was valid and lawful.
• The court or judge acquired authority and jurisdiction over the accused and the subject matter upon the filing of the compla...continue reading