FACTS:

On July 31, 2003, the police received information about the alleged sale of shabu by the accused-appellant, Jose Cutara, in Parola Compound, Tondo, Manila. Police Senior Inspector Raymund Liguden formed a team composed of police officers to conduct a buy-bust operation. They brought with them a confidential informant who personally knew the accused and was willing to help in apprehending him. The team, along with the informant, proceeded to the target area. The poseur-buyer, PO3 Solomon Marcial, and the informant approached the accused, who was standing in a corner. The informant confirmed to PO3 Marcial that the accused was Cutara. PO3 Marcial introduced himself as a buyer of shabu, and the accused asked how much. After the transaction, the pre-arranged signal was given, and the team proceeded to arrest the accused. The accused was brought to the police station, and the seized items were turned over to various officers for examination and documentation. The confiscated sachet tested positive for shabu. The accused denied the allegations and claimed that he was unlawfully arrested and framed by the police. The RTC convicted the accused, and the CA affirmed the decision. The accused appealed his conviction to the Supreme Court.

ISSUES:

1. Whether the Court of Appeals erred in affirming the Decision of the RTC convicting accused-appellant of the crime of selling shabu.

RULING:

1. The appeal lacks merit.

PRINCIPLES:

Credibility of witnesses; denial as a defense; proof beyond reasonable doubt.