Case Summary (G.R. No. 6073)
Facts of the Case
The prosecution's complaint alleged that Mercoleta maliciously attacked Go-Siaco with a bolo, inflicting a wound that almost decapitated the victim, resulting in immediate death. Mercoleta admitted to killing Go-Siaco but asserted self-defense. He claimed that prior to the attack, he had lent the victim a certain quantity of hemp and was cheated on its weight, leading to animosity. On the day of the incident, he encountered the victim, who allegedly brandished a penknife, which prompted Mercoleta to strike first.
Key Testimonies
Several witnesses provided testimony regarding the incident. Basilio Riel stated he heard cries and saw Go-Siaco fall shortly after he noticed the two men walking. Meanwhile, Zacarias Villarino, the bolo's owner, testified that Mercoleta borrowed the weapon without his permission, returning it later stained with blood. Mercoleta's left-handedness was noted, undermining his claim of self-defense as the fatal wound was inflicted on the left side of Go-Siaco's neck.
Preliminary Investigation and Confession
Mercoleta was arrested and later confessed to an auxiliary justice during a preliminary investigation. He detailed his actions leading up to the murder, indicating premeditation and intent to kill. However, during the trial, he denied making these statements. Testimonies from the auxiliary justice and a Constabulary lieutenant corroborated the confession, emphasizing that it was made freely and voluntarily.
Legal Analysis and Findings
The court identified the following elements: The attack was premeditated, marked by Mercoleta's deliberate preparation and concealment before the attack. The use of a bolo and the method of attack—striking from behind—indicated treachery and a lack of risk to the perpetrator, qualifying the act as murder under the law. While premeditation was established, the court found insufficient evidence to suppor
...continue readingCase Syllabus (G.R. No. 6073)
Case Overview
- The case revolves around Catalino Mercoleta, who was tried and convicted of murder by the Court of First Instance in Leyte.
- The crime was committed on January 31, 1910, against a Chinese individual named Go-Siaco (alias Tiago).
- The conviction resulted in the imposition of the extreme penalty of death, which was later modified to cadena perpetua.
Crime Details
- The accusation specified that Mercoleta attacked Go-Siaco with a bolo, striking him on the left side of the neck, nearly severing the head from the body, which resulted in immediate death.
- The attack occurred in an uninhabited place within the jurisdiction of Carigara, Leyte.
Accused's Testimony
- Mercoleta claimed that prior to the incident, he had sold hemp to Go-Siaco, who allegedly defrauded him regarding the weight and value of the hemp.
- On the day of the incident, Mercoleta borrowed a bolo for coconut gathering but encountered Go-Siaco and demanded payment.
- He testified that Go-Siaco denied owing him anything, brandished a penknife, and raised his hand as if to strike