People v. Xxx

Summary

The Supreme Court affirmed the conviction of accused-appellant XXX for rape under Article 266-A of the Revised Penal Code. The case involved the rape of a nine-month pregnant woman in her own dwelling, with the accused using force, threat, and intimidation including pointing a knife at her neck. Despite the accused-appellant's defenses of denial and alibi, the Court found the victim's positive and straightforward testimony credible and sufficient to establish all elements of rape beyond reasonable doubt. The Court emphasized that positive testimony prevails over weak defenses of denial and alibi, and that the victim's identification of the accused was reliable despite his claims of irregular out-of-court identification. The conviction was upheld with the penalty of reclusion perpetua and modified civil liabilities of P75,000.00 each for civil indemnity, moral damages, and exemplary damages.