G.R. No. 151258 - Villa vs. People

In February 1991, seven freshmen law students of Ateneo de Manila University sought to join the Aquila Legis Juris Fraternity.
They underwent initiation rites including physical hazing rituals such as the "Indian Run," "Bicol Express," "Rounds," and "Auxies' Privilege Round."
The neophytes were briefed beforehand, informed about the physical beatings, and told they could quit at any time.
On the second day, accused alumni fraternity members Fidelito Dizon and Artemio Villareal insisted on reopening the initiation, subjecting the neophytes to paddling and extra physical pain.
Leonardo "Lenny" Villa suffered multiple beatings, complained of pain and breathing difficulty, and later died after being rushed to the hospital.

Criminal charges for homicide were filed against 35 members of the fraternity, including Dizon and Villareal.
The trial court convicted 26 of the accused for homicide, sentenced them to reclusion temporal.
The Court of Appeals (CA) modified the liability:

Other accused's cases were tried separately, with some dismissed for violation of speedy trial rights.
Petitions for review were filed by Villareal (who later died), Dizon, the People (challenging acquittals and light sentences), and Villa (challenging dismissals).

Neophytes were subjected to physical and psychological hazing, including verbal threats and blows to arms and legs.
Some fraternity members, including accused, were intoxicated during the initiation.
The victim died from cardiac failure secondary to multiple traumatic injuries.
Witnesses testified about psychological initiation involving fabricated threats and accusations, primarily by Dizon.
The initiation was conducted with the consent of the neophytes, who were aware of the physical nature and risks involved.

Whether the forfeiture of Dizon's right to present evidence constituted denial of due process.
Whether the CA committed grave abuse of discretion by dismissing the case against some accused for violation of the right to speedy trial.
Whether the CA erred in setting aside the trial court's finding of conspiracy and applying individual liability.
Whether Dizon and others are guilty of homicide given the circumstances of the hazing.
Whether the CA erred in convicting some accused only of slight physical injuries.