Facts:

• The case involves The United States vs. Nicolas Dy Jueco.
• Nicolas Dy Jueco was charged with illegal possession of opium and attempted bribery.
• The incident occurred on December 4, 1914, when Corporal Juan Lalizan and soldier Pascual Portejos were traveling from Daet to Talisay.
• The soldiers stopped Jueco, who was in a calesa, to ask for matches.
• Jueco's pale demeanor raised their suspicions of illicit activity.
• A search revealed a tin can with approximately 150 grams of opium in Jueco's right trouser pocket.
• Jueco admitted the substance was opium and attempted to bribe the soldiers with P50.
• The soldiers confiscated the opium and the bribe money.
• The trial court found Jueco guilty, sentencing him to four months imprisonment and a fine of P400 for opium possession, and a fine of P100 for attempted bribery.
• The opium and bribe money were ordered confiscated for the Government of the Philippine Islands.
• The trial court's findings were supported by testimonies from the soldiers, a disinterested witness, and Jueco's confession.

Issue:

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Ruling:

• The court affirmed the trial court's decision, finding the defendant guilty of illegal possession of opium.
• The court also affirmed the trial court&#...(Unlock)

Ratio:

• The Supreme Court upheld the trial court's findings, stating the evidence was sufficient to establish Jueco's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt for both offenses.
• Testimonies from the Constabulary soldiers, corroborated by a disinterested witness and Jueco's confession, indicated he was aware of the illegal nature of the opium.
• The court referenced legal principles regarding possession and intent, particularly animus possidendi, confirming Jueco knowingly possessed the opium...continue reading