Conrado Bunag, Jr. v. Hon. Court of Appeals

Summary

This case involves a civil action for damages filed by Zenaida Cirilo against Conrado Bunag Jr. for alleged forcible abduction, rape, and breach of promise to marry. The courts found that Bunag abducted and raped Cirilo on September 8, 1973, after which they cohabited for 21 days with plans to marry, but Bunag subsequently abandoned her. The Supreme Court affirmed the award of damages, ruling that while breach of promise to marry alone is not actionable, acts contrary to morals and good customs under Article 21 of the Civil Code justify moral and exemplary damages. The Court emphasized that civil liability can exist independently of criminal prosecution, and that factual findings of lower courts are conclusive when supported by evidence. The decision establishes important precedent on civil liability arising from delictual acts and the application of Article 21 of the Civil Code.