G.R. No. 1959, March 29, 1905
THE UNITED STATES, complainant-appellee, vs. FELIX AGUILAR, defendant-appellant.

FACTS:
The defendant, Felix Aguilar, was convicted by the trial court and sentenced to ten years of imprisonment under Section 4 of Act No. 518. The prosecution alleged that he negotiated with a band of brigands commanded by Cornelio Felizardo, sent provisions to the band, and on one occasion remained with the band for three days.

ISSUE:
Whether the evidence presented was sufficient to convict Felix Aguilar of the crime charged under Section 4 of Act No. 518.

RULING:
No. The Supreme Court reversed the judgment of conviction and acquitted the defendant.
The Court found the evidence insufficient. While it was proven that the defendant had some form of negotiation with Felizardo’s band, the exact nature of the transactions was unclear. No witness testified that Aguilar was a member of the band. Although witnesses saw him remain with the band for three days, there was no evidence presented regarding his purpose for being there, his activities during that time, or that he was armed. The Court noted this deficiency prevented a finding under Section 1 of Act No. 518 (pertaining to membership in a band of brigands).
Furthermore, the evidence regarding the provision of supplies was deficient. Witnesses stated that Felizardo ordered Aguilar to collect contributions, but no witness affirmed that Aguilar actually complied with these orders or that he ever gave food or supplies to the band. Due to this lack of conclusive proof, the Court acquitted the defendant.