Case Summary (G.R. No. L-2322)
Charges and Trial Proceedings
Marcelo Alatiit faced four counts of treason, found guilty on three counts by the People’s Court. He was sentenced to life imprisonment and ordered to pay a fine of ten thousand pesos, plus costs. Alatiit appealed the decision, maintaining his innocence throughout the trial.
Nature of the Evidence
The court emphasized the importance of the "two-witness rule" applicable in treason cases. The prosecution's evidence included testimonies from multiple eyewitnesses who confirmed Alatiit’s membership in the Makapili organization—military support for the Japanese forces opposing the underground resistance.
Operational Context of the Makapili Organization
The Makapili was established by Japanese forces as a military organization to assist in operations against guerrilla fighters in the Philippines. Alatiit, identified as a captain within this group, was observed patrolling with Japanese soldiers and was actively involved in arresting suspected guerrillas.
Incident Details Leading to Arrests
Key incidents occurred on June 20, 1943, and around mid-November 1943, where Alatiit, accompanied by Japanese soldiers, participated in the arrests of individuals suspected of anti-Japanese activities. Notable arrests included Gregorio Corrales and Felipe Capili, along with others who were physically maltreated after being taken to a Japanese garrison.
Defense Claims and Court Findings
In his defense, Alatiit claimed he was not a member of the Makapili and asserted that he was merely a bystander during the arrests. He brought forth witnesses to support his assertions, questioning the existence of the Makapili organization in Binan. The trial judges rejected these claims, finding substantial evidence against him.
Evaluation of Witness Credibility
The appellate court reviewed the testimonies and found no compelling reason to overturn the
...continue readingCase Syllabus (G.R. No. L-2322)
Case Overview
- This case involves the appeal of Marcelo Alatiit, who was charged with treason in four counts and found guilty on three.
- The judgment of the People's Court sentenced him to life imprisonment and ordered him to pay ten thousand pesos plus costs.
- Alatiit maintains his plea of innocence and seeks a reversal of the judgment.
Background of the Case
- The events took place during the Japanese occupation of the Philippines.
- A branch of the Makapili organization operated in Binan, Laguna, which was known for assisting Japanese military operations.
- Marcelo Alatiit was identified as a captain within the Makapili organization and was seen on patrol with Japanese soldiers, armed with a rifle.
Specific Incidents Leading to Charges
- On June 20, 1943, around 9:00 PM, Alatiit, along with Japanese soldiers and other Filipinos, went to the house of Angeles Vicentina to locate Gregorio Corrales.
- The group successfully arrested Corrales, along with Macario Alzona and Juan Romero, who were considered guerrilla suspects.
- The detainees were subsequently handed over to Japanese military authorities and held for five days.
- In mid-November 1943, around 2:00 AM, Alatiit partic