Case Summary (G.R. No. 133267)
Charges and Proceedings
The information accusing Peralta and his co-accused was filed on September 22, 1994, detailing the circumstances of the murder of Chief Inspector Rivera. The accused entered pleas of not guilty during their arraignment on October 21, 1994, leading to a trial where multiple witnesses testified against them, including family members of the victim and acquaintances.
Prosecution Witnesses and Their Testimonies
The prosecution's case relied on the testimonies of several witnesses, including Myrna Borromeo, who reported that Peralta had spoken of plans to kill Rivera. Witness Francisco Rivera, the victim's son, provided critical testimony identifying Peralta as one of the assailants who shot his father from a jeepney. Conrado Capitulo also testified to witnessing the shooting, identifying Peralta as the shooter. Additional witnesses, including forensic and health officials, confirmed the victim's death from gunshot wounds.
Defense's Arguments
The defense presented alibi as their primary argument, claiming Peralta was at a chapel during the time of the murder. They aimed to discredit witness testimonies by alleging contradictions and suggesting a motive for Myrna Borromeo to falsely implicate Peralta. However, the defense failed to present credible evidence corroborating the alibi, while the testimonies of witnesses were deemed credible and consistent.
Court's Findings on Guilt
The trial court concluded that the prosecution had established Peralta's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. It emphasized the credibility of the witnesses and found that Peralta's defense of alibi was weak, noting that he could not demonstrate that it was physically impossible for him to have been at the scene of the crime at the time it happened. The court affirmed the presence of treachery and evident premeditation in the crime, corroborating the elements of conspiracy based on witness testimonies regarding prior plans to kill Rivera.
Sentencing and Monetary Damages
The trial court sentenced Peralta to reclusion perpetua and ordered him to pay damages to the heirs of Rivera. These included P184,715 in actual damages, P200,000 in moral damages, and P50,000 in indemnity damages. The court allowed for certain modifications in the awarded amounts on appeal, ultimately affirming financial compensation for loss of earning capacity.
Appeals and Legal Principles
Peralta's appeal raised several issues regarding the credibility of witnesses and the sufficiency of evidence. The appellate court upheld the lower court's findings, reiterating principles regarding the assessme
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Case Background
- The case concerns the appeal of Wilfredo Peralta, also known as "Willie," challenging the decision of the Regional Trial Court of Quezon City.
- Peralta was found guilty of murder and sentenced to reclusion perpetua (life imprisonment) and ordered to pay damages to the heirs of Chief PNP Inspector Arthur Rivera.
- The court’s decision stemmed from events that occurred on April 2, 1993, when Rivera was shot dead in Tarlac, Tarlac.
Charges and Accusation
- The Information was filed against Peralta, Severo Espinosa, Jr. (alias "Jun Beronga"), and several John Does for murder, detailing that they conspired to kill Rivera with intent and utilizing treachery and evident premeditation.
- The accused allegedly attacked Rivera using firearms, leading to his instantaneous death.
Trial Proceedings
- Upon arraignment on October 21, 1994, Peralta and Espinosa pleaded not guilty.
- The prosecution presented multiple witnesses, including family members and acquaintances of the victim, to establish a narrative of conspiracy and intent to murder.
Witness Testimonies
- Myrna Borromeo: Testified about overhearing Peralta discuss plans to kill Rivera and observed suspicious behavior following the murder.
- Francisco Rivera: The victim's son, witnessed the murder and positively identified Peralta as the