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PEOPLE vs Ferdinand Matito

PEOPLE OF THE PHILIPPINES, appellee, vs. FERDINAND MATITO y TORRES, a.k.a. “FREDDIE,” appellant.

G.R. No. 144405 | 2004-02-24

D E C I S I O N

PANGANIBAN, J.:

Circumstantial evidence, when demonstrated with clarity and forcefulness, may be the sole basis of a criminal conviction. It cannot be overturned by bare denials or hackneyed alibis.

The Case

Ferdinand Matito y Torres alias "Freddie" appeals the June 20, 2000 Decision[1] of the Regional Trial Court (RTC) of Malolos, Bulacan (Branch 12), in Criminal Case No. 240-M-99, finding him guilty of murder and sentencing him to reclusion perpetua. The dispositive part of the Decision is worded thus:

"WHEREFORE, finding herein accused Ferdinand Matito y Torres @ Freddie guilty as principal beyond reasonable doubt...