Case Summary (G.R. No. L-30707)
Incident Overview and Charges
On the early morning of May 5, 1967, an armed group concurrently robbed houses in Barrio Bincungan. The attack led to the fatal shooting of Ali P. Tagwalan during the robbery. Ten individuals were initially suspected, but only the four accused were apprehended and charged. The lower court convicted Daffon, Dignos, and Ombiao of robbery in band with homicide, imposing the penalty of reclusion perpetua, while Pasayloon was deemed an accomplice and was sentenced to a lesser term. They were also mandated to pay indemnities to the heirs of the deceased.
Testimonies and Identification of Accused
Witness Kato Sanawe testified that he was present in the Tagwalan household during the robbery and recognized Daffon as one of the intruders. Despite Daffon’s face being partially covered, Sanawe, who was familiar with Daffon from the local community, identified him due to prior interactions. Other witnesses corroborated Sanawe’s account, revealing the chaotic atmosphere and the robber's threat to their lives during the incident.
Defense and Alibi
Daffon relied primarily on an alibi, asserting he was asleep at home during the robbery and claiming he did not know his co-accused prior to their incarceration. His defense was undermined by significant testimonies from several witnesses, including past acquaintances who identified him as one of the robbers. Furthermore, discrepancies arose as Daffon attempted to deny his connection to the crime scene despite being recognized by people familiar with him.
Co-accused Statements and Conviction
The prosecution relied on admissions from co-accused individuals, specifically Dignos and Ombiao, who implicated Daffon in their statements to law enforcement. The statements revealed that Daffon had purportedly suggested the robbery plan, which further corroborated the testimonies presented against him. Despite Daffon’s assertion that these witnesses lacked credibility, their accounts were pivotal in clarifying his involvement.
Trial Court Findings and Sentencing
The trial court assessed the evidence and testimonies, concluding that Daffon was guilty of robbery in band with homicide beyond a reasonable doubt. The court noted substantial incriminating evidence, including the nature of the crime, the organization of the robbery, and the violent outcome leading to Tagwalan's death. While the Solicitor General recommended the imposition of the death penalty, the court was constrained by the prevailing legal requirements, ultimately affirming Daffon’s
...continue readingCase Syllabus (G.R. No. L-30707)
Case Overview
- This case is a criminal appeal concerning the charge of robbery in band with homicide, involving the accused Rafael Daffon, Agustin Dignos, Jesus Ombao, and Alberto Pasayloon.
- The incident took place in Barrio Bincungan, Tagum, Davao del Norte, during the early hours of May 5, 1967.
- The main issue on appeal is the complicity of Rafael Daffon in the robbery and homicide of Ali P. Tagwalan.
Incident Details
- At approximately 1:00 AM, an armed group executed a series of robberies at the residences of Hadji Mohammad Kasilen, Hadji Adam Kasilen, and Ali P. Tagwalan.
- During the course of the robbery, Tagwalan was killed; his death is central to the charges against the accused.
Accusation and Initial Charges
- Ten individuals were suspected of involvement in the robbery; however, only four were apprehended and charged.
- The trial court convicted Daffon, Dignos, and Ombao of robbery in band with homicide, sentencing them to reclusion perpetua.
- Alberto Pasayloon was found guilty as an accomplice and received a lesser sentence of twelve years of prision mayor to twenty years of reclusion temporal.
Testimonies of Witnesses
- Kato Sanawe, a key witness, recounted being awakened by gunfire, witnessing the robbery, and identifying Daffon among the intruders despite his face being par