People v. Mendoza

Summary

This rape case involves the conviction of Enrique Mendoza under Article 266-A of the Revised Penal Code. The Supreme Court affirmed the lower courts' findings, rejecting the accused's alibi defense and upholding the credibility of the victim's testimony. The Court emphasized that rape victims cannot be expected to remember traumatic experiences in specific detail, and that denial and alibi are inherently weak defenses against positive witness testimony. The case progressed from RTC conviction through CA affirmation to SC review, with the Supreme Court modifying only the damage awards to P75,000 each for civil indemnity, moral damages, and exemplary damages. The decision reinforces established jurisprudence on rape cases regarding victim credibility, alibi defenses, and the standard for appellate review of factual findings.