People v. Xxx

Summary

The Supreme Court dismissed the appeal in this rape case, affirming the Court of Appeals' conviction of accused XXX for Simple Rape under Article 266-A of the Revised Penal Code. The case involved the rape of AAA by XXX, her mother's common-law husband, on September 14, 2009. While AAA testified to ongoing abuse since age 12, the prosecution focused on the specific September 2009 incident when she was no longer a minor, thus resulting in Simple Rape rather than Qualified Rape charges. The SC found that the prosecution successfully proved beyond reasonable doubt that XXX had carnal knowledge of AAA through force and intimidation against her will. The Court modified the penalty by removing the phrase 'without eligibility for parole' and sentenced XXX to reclusion perpetua with P75,000.00 each for civil indemnity, moral damages, and exemplary damages, plus 6% legal interest. The case demonstrates the application of rape law amendments under RA 8353 and procedural guidelines on penalty impositions.