Case Summary (G.R. No. 133582)
Charges and Proceedings
The accused were charged with the crime of rape under Article 335 of the Revised Penal Code, stemming from an Information which alleged that, through conspiracy and intimidation, they unlawfully had sexual intercourse with the complainant, Edna Cabusas, against her will and consent. The accused-appellants pleaded not guilty during arraignment, leading to a trial where evidence was presented from both the prosecution and the defense.
Testimony of the Complainant
Edna Cabusas testified that earlier on the night of the incident, she had attended a birthday party at her acquaintance's home where she consumed two bottles of beer. After feeling uncomfortable due to the accused's behavior, she left the party to fetch her husband. However, outside her husband’s house, Edna was accosted by both accused-appellants who dragged her to the woods. In her testimony, she described being overpowered and raped by Teddy Anggit while Ariel Cabiluna restrained her legs.
Evidence Presented
The prosecution included corroborative testimony from Edna's husband, Edilberto, and medical findings from Dra. Marites Paano, which indicated no external injuries but corroborated internal damage indicative of sexual assault. Despite the lack of physical marks on Edna's body, her testimony detailed the violent nature of the attack and her inability to resist due to fear.
Defense Arguments
Both defendants raised alibis and claimed that Edna was intoxicated, pointing to inconsistencies in her testimony as a basis for reasonable doubt about their guilt. Specifically, they highlighted perceived contradictions regarding the sequence of events, her inability to resist, and absence of physical injuries.
Judicial Findings
The trial court found the complainant credible, demonstrating that although there were minor inconsistencies in her testimony, these did not detract from the essence of her claim. The court underscored the reality that a victim's response to such trauma can vary greatly.
Ruling and Sentences
The trial court convicted both accused-appellants of rape, sentencing them to reclusion perpetua, and ordered them to pay moral damages of P50,000 to the complainant. The court highlighted the aggravating circumstances of conspiracy between
Case Syllabus (G.R. No. 133582)
Background of the Case
- The case involves the appeal of accused-appellants Teddy Anggit and Ariel Cabiluna, who were convicted of rape by the Regional Trial Court of Cebu City, Branch 18.
- The trial court sentenced both accused to reclusion perpetua and ordered them to pay the victim, Edna Cabusas, P50,000.00 in moral damages, along with costs.
Facts of the Case
- The incident occurred on March 3, 1996, around 1:00 AM in Camp 2, Municipality of Talisay, Cebu, Philippines.
- Edna Cabusas testified that after performing household chores, she went to a birthday party at the house of Gaga, the girlfriend of accused-appellant Ariel Cabiluna.
- During the party, Edna consumed two bottles of beer and felt uncomfortable with the behavior of the accused, who were laughing and whispering about her.
- After leaving the party, Edna was accosted by Teddy Anggit and Ariel Cabiluna, who dragged her to the woods where the rape occurred.
- Edna identified her attackers due to the light from the kitchen and the full moon, despite her fear of being killed if she shouted.
Testimonies
- Edna described in vivid detail how she was overpowered and raped by Teddy Anggit while Ariel Cabiluna held her legs apart.
- Edna reported that when Teddy was about to ejaculate, he withdrew and masturbated on her breast.
- After the assault, Edna lost consciousness and did not see the attackers when she regained consciousness.
Husband's Testimony
- Edilberto Cabusas, Edna's husband, testif