G.R. No. 1354 : January 30, 1904
THE UNITED STATES, complainant-appellee, vs. SIMON DE PADUA, defendant-appellant.

FACTS:
The defendant, Simon de Padua, was the president (municipal mayor) of the pueblo of Tarangnan in Samar. He was charged with illegally conspiring with and aiding a band of robbers (brigands) led by Pedro de la Cruz, which consisted of 300 to 400 armed men organized to steal carabaos and other property by force. The band was active from August 1902. Despite frequent robberies in his jurisdiction, the accused repeatedly reported to provincial authorities that his pueblo was peaceful. Evidence showed he had friendly relations with members of the band who visited his house. On or about December 20, 1902, the accused delivered rice and fish to the band at their camp in Bunayon. On the same day, he informed the band’s leaders of an impending Constabulary attack, enabling them to prepare extra guards. Furthermore, he had previously sent his vice-president to the band’s camp to sell them personal cedulas (community tax certificates).

ISSUE:
Whether the defendant is guilty of the crime of knowingly aiding a band of brigands by furnishing them with supplies and information.

RULING:
Yes, the defendant is guilty. The Supreme Court affirmed the judgment of the trial court. The evidence conclusively established: (1) the existence of an armed band of brigands with the unlawful purpose of robbery; (2) the accused’s full knowledge of the band’s existence and purposes, given his frequent intercourse with them; and (3) that the accused voluntarily aided the band by providing food (rice and fish) and critical information about Constabulary movements. Under the applicable law, one who knowingly aids a band of brigands by furnishing supplies is punishable by imprisonment of ten to twenty years. The sentence of twelve years imprisonment, with the accessories prescribed by law, was therefore affirmed.