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People vs. Pacito Garces, Jr

PEOPLE OF THE PHILIPPINES, plaintiff-appellee, vs. PACITO GARCES JR., accused-appellant.

G.R. No. 132368 | 2000-01-20

D E C I S I O N

PANGANIBAN, J.:

The credible testimony of a rape victim is a sufficient basis for conviction, especially when it is corroborated by other witnesses and supported by medicolegal findings. A "sweetheart defense" should be substantiated by some documentary and/or other evidence of the relationship like mementos, love letters, notes, pictures and the like. Such relationship, if proven, would not necessarily establish consent, for love is not a license for lust.

The Case

Pacito Garces Jr., also known as "Bolingot," appeals the Decision of the Regional Trial Court (RTC) of Dumaguete City (Branch 32), which convicted him of...