Case Summary (G.R. No. L-2958)
Overview of Charges
Rosas faced eight counts of treason but was ultimately convicted on three counts—Counts 1, 3, and 5. The charges against him revolved around being an agent and informer for the Japanese, specifically regarding his involvement in raids, arrests, and acts of looting and arson during the occupation. The court noted that Counts 1 and 3 largely repeat the allegations made in Count 5, which provides a more specific account of Rosas’ alleged actions on December 17, 1944.
Details of the Offenses
Count 5 detailed an incident in Calauan, Laguna, where Rosas allegedly participated in the apprehension of several individuals suspected of being guerrillas. The individuals mentioned—Felipe Rivera, Francisco Lalongisip, Agapito Lalongisip, among others—were reportedly arrested, tortured, and subsequently killed following their apprehension. The prosecution's case was supported by testimonies from two witnesses, Dionisia Igamin and Maria Empalmado, who provided firsthand accounts of the events, including the looting and arson committed by the raiding party that included Rosas.
Defense and Testimonies
In his defense, Rosas denied any affiliation with the Makapili or involvement in the alleged criminal activities. He claimed he merely observed the events while under Japanese custody, asserting that he had been arrested prior to December 17 and was taken to the electric plant on that day. The court, however, found this defense unconvincing, describing Rosas' testimony as childish and lacking credibility.
Evaluation of Evidence
The court determined that the evidence presented by the prosecution, specifically regarding Rosas' role as a Makapili, did not meet the “two-witness rule” for treason. The witnesses failed to corroborate each other on critical aspects of this part of the accusation, leading the court to note that the p
...continue readingCase Syllabus (G.R. No. L-2958)
Case Overview
- The case involves Patricio Rosas, who was prosecuted for treason under eight counts.
- He was found guilty on Counts 1, 3, and 5, resulting in a sentence of life imprisonment, accessory penalties, and a fine of P10,000.
- The court noted that Counts 1 and 3 are general allegations of the same acts detailed in Count 5, with Count 3 including charges of looting and arson not present in Count 5.
Charges Against the Defendant
- Counts 1 and 3 accused Rosas of being an agent and informer for the Japanese as well as a member of the Makapili.
- It was alleged that he accompanied Japanese troops and participated in various criminal acts, including raids, arrests, looting, and arson.
- Count 5 provided a more detailed account of a specific incident occurring on December 17, 1944, in Calauan, Laguna.
Incident on December 17, 1944
- On this date, Rosas allegedly assisted Japanese soldiers and other Makapilis in arresting several individuals suspected of being guerrillas.
- The arrested individuals included Felipe Rivera, Francisco Lalongiaip, and Rup