G.R. No. L-1764, December 9, 1948
People of the Philippines vs. Angelo Magsilang

FACTS

During the Japanese occupation, appellant Angelo Magsilang, a Hukbalahap leader in Barrio Anupul, Bamban, Tarlac, desired Valentina Mandal, the wife of Bernabe Balatbat. Through intimidation, he forced Bernabe to leave his home. Valentina, fearing for her family’s safety, became Magsilang’s mistress. After liberation, Bernabe returned home. On January 15, 1947, at midnight, Magsilang went to Bernabe’s house, falsely claimed Bernabe was needed by three persons, and led him away. Bernabe was never seen alive again. Seventeen days later, his decomposing body was found in a well. Initially, Valentina did not accuse Magsilang due to death threats, but after his arrest in another case, she denounced him. Magsilang gave a sworn written statement admitting to clubbing Bernabe from behind and dumping him into the well, and he re-enacted the crime for photographs. At trial, he repudiated his confession, claiming it was extracted through force and duress.

ISSUE

Whether the conviction of Angelo Magsilang for murder is supported by sufficient and credible evidence.

RULING

Yes, the conviction is affirmed. The Supreme Court found the evidence of guilt clear and fully established. The sworn statement (Exhibit “A”) and the photographic re-enactment (Exhibits “B” to “B-4”) were voluntarily given, as confirmed by the investigating police and the administering Justice of the Peace. The trial court properly rejected the claim of coercion, noting Magsilang’s demeanor as a former Huk commander indicated he was not easily intimidated. His attempt in the confession to implicate Valentina as the instigator further indicated its voluntariness. The circumstantial evidence, including Magsilang’s motive (his illicit relationship with Valentina) and his actions on the night of the crime, corroborated the confession. The penalty of reclusion perpetua and an indemnity of P2,000 to the heirs of Bernabe Balatbat were upheld.

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