Case Summary (G.R. No. 183543)
Indictment and Charges
The criminal complaint filed against Pepito Sibuyo alleges that he committed acts of lasciviousness on Jocelyn Junio by kissing her neck and touching her breast without her consent. This charge was based on Jocelyn's testimony that she was assaulted by Sibuyo while she sought respite due to stomach pains.
Prosecution's Case
The prosecution's case largely relies on Jocelyn's narrative, which describes a history of friendship and comfort between her and Sibuyo. On the day of the incident, Jocelyn indicated her intent to rest in the salvage room where Sibuyo worked. Allegedly, she fell asleep only to be awakened by Sibuyo, who assaulted her physically. Despite her resistance, which included kicking him and verbal warnings, she described how he persisted in his actions.
Defense Testimony
In defense, Sibuyo claimed that he found Jocelyn lying on his bed and that she had merely smiled at his advice to go to the clinic. He asserted the charges were fabricated as a retaliation related to his employment situation at Philusa, given the timing of her allegations following his wrongful termination.
Verdict of the Trial Court
The trial court found Sibuyo guilty of acts of lasciviousness, imposing an indeterminate penalty and accessory penalties but did not find sufficient grounds for awarding moral damages to Jocelyn. The court emphasized the credibility of Jocelyn's testimony over Sibuyo's, finding no significant motive to fabricate her claims.
Court of Appeals Decision
Upon appeal, the Court of Appeals upheld the trial court's decision, stating that Sibuyo failed to demonstrate adequate ill motive on Jocelyn's part. The appellate court expressed confidence in the trial court's evaluation of witness credibility, considering Jocelyn's actions and behaviors post-incident as consistent with that of a victim.
Key Legal Findings
- Credibility of the Complainant: The courts found Jocelyn’s testimony credible, noting her immediate emotional response and her swift communication of the event to coworkers.
- Lack of Evidence for Ill Motive: The absence of evidence proving that Jocelyn had a nefarious motive to fabricate the accusations against Sibuyo was highlighted.
- Delay in Fili
Case Syllabus (G.R. No. 183543)
Case Overview
- This case involves a petition for review on certiorari under Rule 45 of the Rules of Court, concerning a decision of the Court of Appeals affirming the Regional Trial Court's conviction of Pepito Sibuyo for acts of lasciviousness against Jocelyn Junio.
- The trial court sentenced Sibuyo to an indeterminate penalty and mandated him to suffer accessory penalties as prescribed by law, alongside an obligation to cover costs.
Indictment Details
- The indictment charged Pepito Sibuyo with acts of lasciviousness occurring on May 21, 1993, in Pasig, Metro Manila.
- The accusation specified that Sibuyo, with lewd intent and through force and intimidation, committed acts of lasciviousness by kissing Jocelyn's neck and inappropriately touching her breast against her will.
Background of the Parties
- Jocelyn Junio and Pepito Sibuyo were co-workers at Philusa Corporation, with Junio working as a labeler and Sibuyo as a warehouseman.
- Their working environment included a "salvage room" where returned items were stored, and where the incident took place.
- The two had known each other for over ten years and shared a friendship, sometimes acting as godparents for mutual friends' children.
Incident Description
- On May 21, 1993, Jocelyn, suffering from stomach pains, sought permission to rest in the salvage room.
- After preparing the bed and applying liniment, she fell asleep but was awoken by Sibuyo, who was on top of her, engaging in unwanted physical contact.
- Jocelyn struggled to fend off Sibuyo’s advances, confronting him verbally