Case Summary (G.R. No. 137268)
Allegations Against the Accused
The information filed against the accused-appellants alleged that on January 27, 1997, they conspired to kill Randy Luntayao by inflicting fatal injuries during a supposed “healing” ritual. The prosecution outlined the events in which Randy was restrained, submerged in water, physically assaulted, and ultimately stabbed, leading to his death.
Prosecution Evidence
Several witnesses testified to the abusive ritual performed on Randy. Key testimony came from Honey Fe Abella, a child who observed the scene, describing how the victim was forcibly held under water, struck, and stabbed by the accused. Additionally, evidence presented from Eddie Luntayao, Randy’s father, indicated that the accused exploited the family's belief in spiritual healing, resulting in their isolation during the assault.
Defense Strategy
The defense called upon various witnesses to argue that the actions of the accused were intended as a healing measure, rather than an act of murder. Ritsel Blase, who claimed to have witnessed the events, testified that Randy became unruly during the ritual but did not affirm that any harmful actions intended to cause death took place. The defense further presented medical professionals to assert that Randy's death was due to pneumonia, rather than direct violence.
Trial Court Decision
The trial court found the accused guilty of murder, emphasizing the qualifying circumstance of treachery. The court held that the actions taken by the accused were intentional and contributed to Randy's death, despite the lack of intent to kill. The presence of multiple assailants, the manner of the attack, and the resulting fatal injuries led to the conclusion that the accused should face severe penalties.
Appeal and Justifications
In appealing the trial court's decision, the accused-appellants contended that their actions, driven by a belief in faith healing, did not amount to murder but rather reckless imprudence resulting in homicide. They cited a lack of malicious intent and argued that the trial’s reliance on the presumption of criminal intent was erroneous, especially given their belief and the consent of the victim’s parents.
Resolution of the Appeal
The appellate court modified the trial court's judgment, concluding that the accused-appellants acted with rec
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Case Overview
- This case is an appeal from the Regional Trial Court, Branch 14, Cebu City, which found the accused-appellants guilty of murder and sentenced them to reclusion perpetua.
- The case revolves around the tragic death of Randy Luntayao, a 13-year-old boy, who died under suspicious circumstances while undergoing what the accused claimed was a healing treatment.
Incident Details
- On January 27, 1997, at approximately 2:00 PM, Randy Luntayao was subjected to a brutal treatment by the accused in an attempt to exorcise a "bad spirit" that they claimed possessed him.
- Witness Honey Fe Abella, aged 10, observed the horrific scene where Randy was forcibly held, submerged in a water drum, and physically assaulted by the accused.
- The accused included Eutiquia Carmen (Mother Perpetuala), Celedonia Fabie, Delia Sibonga, Alexander Sibonga, and Reynario NuAez, all of whom participated in the act of violence leading to Randy's death.
Testimony and Evidence
- The prosecution presented eyewitness testimony from Honey Fe Abella, detailing Randy’s struggle, the physical assault he endured, and the ultimately fatal stabbing by Eutiquia Carmen.
- Eddie Luntayao, Randy's father, testified about the circumstances leading up to the treatment, including his son’s mental health issues and the insistence of the accused to perform the ritual without his presence.
- An autopsy conducted by Dr. Ronaldo B. Mendez revealed se