#### Facts:
On March 19, 2005, Armando Chingh y Parcia was charged with Rape for acts committed on March 11, 2004, against a minor, VVV, in Manila, Philippines. Armando pleaded not guilty, leading to a trial where both the prosecution and defense presented their evidence and witnesses. The prosecution relied on the victim’s testimony, corroborated by medical evidence and witness testimonies, while Armando offered a contradicting account. The Regional Trial Court convicted Armando of Statutory Rape, imposing Reclusion Perpetua and damages. Dissatisfied, Armando appealed to the Court of Appeals (CA), which not only affirmed the RTC’s decision but also found him guilty of Rape Through Sexual Assault, modifying his sentences and convicted him for two counts of rape.
#### Issues:
1. The credibility of the victim’s testimony challenged by Armando.
2. The realistic possibility of the rape occurring as described by the victim.
3. Armando’s defense of denial and alibi countered by the prosecution’s evidence.
4. Proper charges and convictions under the Information.
#### Court’s Decision:
The Supreme Court upheld the CA’s findings, dismissing Armando’s challenges. It highlighted the consistent and credible testimony of the victim, supported by medical evidence, to substantiate Armando’s guilt beyond reasonable doubt for both Statutory Rape and Rape Through Sexual Assault. The Court rejected Armando’s denial and alibi as weak defenses against the direct and substantiated allegations. The Court analyzed the legal basis for convicting Armando on two counts under the charges as provided by law, emphasizing the application of relevant laws and rules due to the victim’s age and the nature of the offenses.
#### Doctrine:
1. The lone testimony of a rape victim, if credible, is sufficient to support a conviction.
2. Denial and alibi cannot overturn a positive identification and credible narrative by the victim.
3. An accused can be convicted of as many offenses as charged and proved if no objection to multiple charges was raised before trial.
4. The applicability of laws protecting children against sexual abuse extends to assessing the proper penalties for offenses committed against minors.
#### Class Notes:
– Credibility of Witnesses: The trial court’s assessment of witness credibility is generally accorded great respect due to their unique position to observe the witnesses’ demeanor.
– Statutory Rape: Conviction does not require force or intimidation; the victim’s age below 12 is decisive.
– Rape Through Sexual Assault: Includes acts of sexual penetration other than penile-vaginal intercourse, such as the insertion of fingers into the victim’s genitalia.
– Defense of Denial and Alibi: Must be substantiated by clear and convincing evidence; generally weak against positive and credible testimony.
– Special Protection Laws: The applicability of RA 7610 (Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation, and Discrimination Act) in conjunction with RA 8353 (Anti-Rape Law of 1997) for crimes involving minor victims.
#### Historical Background:
This case underscores the Philippine legal system’s evolving treatment of rape and sexual assault, especially involving minors. It highlights the interplay between the Revised Penal Code (as amended by RA 8353) and special laws like RA 7610 in protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation, mirroring broader societal and legal efforts to address and penalize such offenses effectively. The decision illustrates the judiciary’s commitment to upholding the rights of minors against sexual violence, reflecting contemporary legal standards and societal values.
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