People of the Philippines vs. XXX

Summary

This criminal case involves the prosecution of XXX for the rape of AAA, a minor relative. The victim testified to the assault and medical findings corroborated her testimony. The RTC, the Court of Appeals and the Supreme Court all found the accused guilty beyond reasonable doubt, rejecting his defenses of denial and alibi. The courts modified the conviction from qualified rape to simple rape because the qualifying relationship was not alleged in the Information. The Supreme Court affirmed the conviction and the penalty of reclusion perpetua, with damages of Php75,000 each for civil indemnity, moral damages, and exemplary damages. The case demonstrates the courts' consistent approach in giving full credence to a child victim's testimony when corroborated by medical evidence, and the strict requirement that qualifying circumstances must be alleged in the Information.