G.R. Nos. 93026-27 December 17, 1996
The People of the Philippines vs. Conrado Pajaro alias “Dadi”

FACTS

Accused-appellant Conrado Pajaro was charged with two counts of rape committed against thirteen-year-old Agnes Gorrion on February 7 and 11, 1981, in Hinigaran, Negros Occidental. The informations alleged that he used a knife, force, and intimidation to have carnal knowledge of the victim. At arraignment, Pajaro pleaded not guilty. The trial court, after joint trial, found him guilty beyond reasonable doubt for both counts and sentenced him to two penalties of reclusion perpetua, with an indemnity of P20,000 for each count.
The prosecution established that on the evening of February 7, 1981, while Agnes was on an errand, Pajaro, naked and armed with a knife, dragged her into a sugarcane field. He threatened her with the knife, forced her to lie down, and succeeded in having sexual intercourse with her despite her resistance and cries. On February 11, 1981, while on another errand, Agnes was again accosted by Pajaro, who similarly used a knife to threaten her, dragged her to a different sugarcane field, and raped her. Fearing for her life due to Pajaro’s threats, Agnes did not immediately report the incidents. Her family only learned of the rapes two weeks later after noticing her distressed condition, leading to a medical examination that confirmed sexual intercourse.

ISSUE

Whether the prosecution proved the guilt of the accused-appellant for the crime of rape beyond reasonable doubt.

RULING

Yes. The Supreme Court affirmed the trial court’s decision, modifying only the civil indemnity. The Court upheld the credibility of the victim’s testimony, which was detailed, consistent, and corroborated by medical findings. The defense of the accused-appellant, which essentially questioned the victim’s credibility and the delay in reporting, was rejected. The Court explained that delay in reporting a rape, especially when threats are involved, does not undermine credibility. The victim, a minor, was justifiably paralyzed by fear. The Court cited the doctrine that a young girl cannot be expected to immediately report a sexual assault when a death threat has been made.
Furthermore, the accused-appellant’s flight during the trial was considered indicative of a consciousness of guilt. The Court deferred to the trial court’s factual findings and assessment of witness credibility, noting no significant circumstance was overlooked that would alter the case. The legal logic rests on the principle that the testimony of a rape victim, when credible and consistent, is sufficient to sustain a conviction. The Court increased the civil indemnity for each count to P30,000.00, in accordance with prevailing jurisprudence for the rape of a minor.