PEOPLE v. BERNABE P. PALANAS

FACTS:

Bernabe P. Palanas, also known as "Abe," appealed his conviction for the crime of Murder. He was charged with the murder of SPO2 Ramon Borre in Pasig City. The prosecution claimed that Palanas, together with an unidentified person, shot SPO2 Borre outside his residence. Palanas asserted his defense of denial and alibi, stating that he was in Parafiaque City taking care of his sick father at the time of the incident.

The Regional Trial Court (RTC) found Palanas guilty beyond reasonable doubt of murder and sentenced him to reclusion perpetua. The RTC relied on the positive identification of Palanas by eyewitnesses and the dying declaration of SPO2 Borre to establish his guilt. The Court of Appeals affirmed the RTC's ruling, but made modifications to the damages awarded.

The Supreme Court is now tasked with deciding whether or not Palanas's conviction for murder should be upheld.

ISSUES:

  1. Whether or not Palanas's conviction for the crime of Murder should be upheld.

RULING:

  1. The Court upheld Palanas's conviction for the crime of Murder.

PRINCIPLES: