Cesar M. Calingasan v. People

Summary

Cesar Calingasan was charged with violating R.A. 9262 for allegedly abandoning his wife and child without financial support, causing mental and emotional anguish. The RTC and CA convicted him, finding he willfully denied support. However, the Supreme Court acquitted Calingasan, applying the recent Acharon ruling that clarified Section 5(i) of R.A. 9262 requires proof of willful denial of financial support for the specific purpose of inflicting psychological violence. The Court found the prosecution failed to establish these elements, as evidence showed Calingasan's inability to provide support was due to incarceration and unemployment beyond his control, not willful psychological abuse. This case significantly clarifies that mere failure to provide financial support, without intent to cause psychological harm, does not constitute criminal liability under the Anti-VAWC Act.