G.R. No. L-21756 - People vs. Vinas

Both Nelson Vias and Oscar Parcon testified that Norman Vias was in Hinigaran for a birthday party on April 9 and did not return to Bacolod until April 11.
The alibi was deemed insufficient due to a lack of explanation for Norman's extended stay beyond the party date and the absence of additional witnesses to corroborate the alibi.
The proximity of Hinigaran to Bacolod (approximately 50 kilometers) made it physically possible for Norman to travel back to Bacolod on the night of the crime.

The appellant challenged the credibility of prosecution eyewitnesses based on alleged contradictions in their testimonies, failing to cite specific references as required by the Rules of Court.
Such contradictions are common in the context of unexpected events and do not necessarily indicate dishonesty; rather, they can reflect the witnesses' genuine recollections.
Both eyewitnesses had close relationships with the accused, which could suggest bias, yet neither of the Vias brothers provided a plausible motive for these witnesses to testify against them.

The trial court found compelling evidence of conspiracy based on the presence of both Vias brothers at the crime scene, their prior discussions about attacking Varela, and Nelson Vias's direct assault on the victim.
The court noted that Nelson had no personal animosity towards Varela, which further supported the conclusion of a premeditated conspiracy to commit murder.
The circumstances surrounding the attack were sufficient to affirm the trial court's findings regarding the brothers' conspiracy to kill Varela.