G.R. No. 133475 ; March 26, 2001
THE PEOPLE OF THE PHILIPPINES, plaintiff-appellee, vs. ERNESTO MONTEJO, accused-appellant.

FACTS

The prosecution alleged that on August 10, 1989, in Sitio Panimugsalan, Gimaylan, Libertad, Misamis Oriental, accused-appellant Ernesto Montejo raped the 12-year-old complainant, Juvelyn B. Labalan. Juvelyn testified that while she was selling fish, Montejo called her to his house, tied her hands, covered her mouth, and forcibly had carnal knowledge of her in a grassy area at the back of his house. She did not immediately report the incident due to threats. The medical examination revealed healed hymenal lacerations. The defense presented an alibi, with witnesses claiming Juvelyn was seen playing elsewhere that morning and that Montejo was in his house alone in the afternoon. Montejo also claimed the case was motivated by a prior quarrel over livestock.

ISSUE

The core issue is whether the prosecution proved the guilt of the accused-appellant for the crime of rape beyond reasonable doubt.

RULING

The Supreme Court affirmed the conviction. The Court found the testimony of the victim, Juvelyn, to be credible, straightforward, and consistent. Her detailed account of the rape, including the use of a nylon rope and handkerchief, and her subsequent behavior of fear and silence, were deemed natural for a child of her age. The medical findings of healed lacerations corroborated her claim of prior sexual intercourse. The defense of alibi was rejected as inherently weak and unsubstantiated by clear and convincing evidence; it could not prevail over the positive identification by the victim. The alleged ill-motive was insufficient to discredit the clear testimony. The Court upheld the penalty of reclusion perpetua and, in line with prevailing jurisprudence, increased the civil indemnity to P50,000.00 and awarded an additional P50,000.00 as moral damages.