People v. Ulangkaya

Summary

The Supreme Court affirmed the conviction of accused-appellant Jomar M. Ulangkaya for kidnapping a 9-year-old minor under Article 267, paragraph 4 of the Revised Penal Code. On December 16-17, 2010, armed men took AAA from her father, with accused-appellant subsequently carrying her to the mountains where she was held overnight. The Court found all elements of kidnapping proven beyond reasonable doubt, emphasizing that accused-appellant deprived the victim of liberty by keeping her under his control in an unfamiliar mountainous area. His intent was demonstrated through his conduct during police pursuit - engaging in gunfire while carrying the victim and pointing his gun at her head when cornered. The Court rejected his denial defense, giving greater weight to the positive identification by the victim and credible testimonies of police witnesses. The conviction with reclusion perpetua and monetary damages was upheld.