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Summary

The Supreme Court acquitted Rodan Bangayan of child sexual abuse under RA 7610, reversing lower court convictions. Bangayan, 27, had sexual intercourse with 12-year-old AAA in 2012. The couple continued their relationship, had two children, and AAA executed an affidavit of desistance. The Court clarified that for victims aged 12-17, consent is material when no coercion, money, or exploitation is involved. The prosecution failed to prove all elements of Section 5(b) of RA 7610, particularly that AAA was exploited or subjected to sexual abuse through coercion or adult influence. The Court found AAA's continued relationship with Bangayan, bearing two children, and supportive conduct demonstrated genuine consent. Applying precedents from Tulagan and Monroy, the Court ruled no crime was committed when sexual intercourse between a minor (12-17) and adult involves genuine consent without exploitation. The decision prioritized the best interests of their children and family unity.