G.R. No. 1032 : February 19, 1903
Case Title: THE UNITED STATES, complainant-appellee, vs. AGUSTIN ABLAZA, defendant-appellant.

FACTS:
The defendant-appellant, Agustin Ablaza, was convicted of a crime. During the proceedings, he confessed his guilt. He also applied for the benefits of the amnesty proclamation dated July 4, 1902.

ISSUE:
1. Whether the defendant’s confession of guilt constitutes an extenuating circumstance under Article 9 of the Penal Code.

RULING:
1. No, a confession of guilt is not an extenuating circumstance. The Supreme Court ruled that a defendant’s confession of guilt cannot be considered as an extenuating circumstance within the meaning of Article 9 of the Penal Code. However, the Court found that another extenuating circumstance under Article 9, No. 5, was present in the case and should be taken into account.

DISPOSITIVE PORTION:
The judgment of the lower court was modified. The penalty was reduced from fourteen years, eight months, and one day to twelve years and one day of reclusión temporal. In all other respects, the judgment was affirmed. The appellant was ordered to pay the costs of the instance.