People v. Bacalso

Summary

This is a criminal case where Albert Bacalso was charged and convicted of rape under Article 266-A of the Revised Penal Code and Republic Act No. 7610, involving a minor victim. The Regional Trial Court of Cebu City found him guilty beyond reasonable doubt and sentenced him to reclusion perpetua with P50,000 civil indemnity. The Court of Appeals affirmed the conviction and added P50,000 moral damages. The Supreme Court dismissed Bacalso's appeal, finding no reversible error, and further modified the decision by awarding P30,000 exemplary damages due to the victim's minority and imposing 6% annual interest on all damages from finality until full payment. The case demonstrates the consistent application of criminal law provisions protecting minors from sexual abuse, with progressive enhancement of victim compensation through the appellate process.