Beruflich Dokumente
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GENERAL PRINCIPLES
evidence,
are
equivalent to proof.
not
CONCEPT OF EVIDENCE
FACTUM PROBANS v. FACTUM PROBANDUM
Evidence is the means, sanctioned by the Rules of Court, of
ascertaining in a judicial proceeding the truth respecting a
matter of fact (Sec. 1, Rule 128).
Factum Probandum
The fact or proposition to
be established
ADMISSIBILITY OF EVIDENCE
Three (3) Kinds of Admissibility of Evidence
NOTE: The Rules of Court shall not apply to election cases, land
registration, cadastral, naturalization and insolvency proceedings,
and other cases not herein provided for, except by analogy or in a
suppletory character and whenever practicable and convenient.
(Sec. 4, Rule 1).
1.
2.
3.
Principle of Uniformity
As a general policy, the rules of evidence shall be same in
all courts and in all trials and hearing (Sec. 2, Rule 128).
EVIDENCE IN CIVIL CASES VERSUS
EVIDENCE IN CRIMINAL CASE
EVIDENCE IN CIVIL CASE
The party having the
burnden of proof must
prove his claim by a
preponderance
of
evidence (Sec. 1, Rule
133).
An offer of compromise is
not an admission of any
liability,
and
not
admissible in evidence
against the offeror (Sec.
27, Rule 130).
The
concept
of
presumption of innocence
does not apply and
generally
there is no
presumption for or against
a party exept in certain
cases provided by law.
EVIDENCE IN CRIMINAL
CASE
The guilt of the accused
has to be proven beyond
reasonable doubt (Sec. 1,
Rule 133).
PROOF v. EVIDENCE
Proof
The result or effect of
evidence. Bare allegations
unsubstantiated
by
Evidence
The medium or means by
which a fact is proved or
disproved.
Factum Probans
The facts or material
evidencing the fact or
proposition
to
be
established.
The
probative
or
evidentiary fact tending to
prove the fact in issue.
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EVIDENCE
substitute for formal proof of a matter by evidence (Riano,
2013).
2.
1.
2.
Relevancy of Evidence
1.
2.
3.
Collateral matters
During trial;
After trial and before judgment; or
Appeal.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
Judicial notice
1.
343
REMEDIAL LAW
2.
3.
2.
3.
4.
5.
2.
3.
JUDICIAL ADMISSIONS
Judicial Admission
These are admissions, verbal or written, made by a party in
the course of the proceedings in the same case, which does
not require proof (Sec. 4, Rule 129).
344
EXTRAJUDICIAL
ADMISSIONS
Those made out of court
or in a judicial proceeding
other than the one under
EVIDENCE
consideration
Do not require proof and
may be contradicted only
by showing that it was
made through palpable
mistake or that no such
admission was made (Sec.
4, Rule 129).
Judicial admissions need
not be offered in evidence
since it is not evidence. It
is superior to evidence
and shall be considered by
the court as established.
Conclusive upon the
admitter
Admissible even if selfserving
Subject to crossexamination
Rebuttable
Not admissible if selfserving
Not subject to crossexamination
2.
NOTE: But the failure to deny the genuineness and due execution
of an actionable document does not preclude a party from arguing
against the document by evidence of fraud, mistake, compromise,
payment, statute of limitations, estoppel and want of
consideration. He is however, precluded from arguing that the
document is a forgery because the genuineness of document is
impliedly admitted (Acabal v. Acabal, 454 SCRA 555; PNB v.
Refrigeration Industries, Inc, ibid.).
NOTE: When an action or defense is founded upon a written
instrument, copied in or attached to the corresponding pleading as
provided by Sec. 7, the genuineness and due execution of the
instrument shall be deemed admitted unless the adverse party,
under oath, specifically denies them, and sets forth what he claims
to be the facts; but the requirement of an oath does not apply
when the adverse party does not appear to be a party to the
instrument or when compliance with an order for an inspection of
the original instrument is refused (Sec. 8, Rule 8).
345
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presumption to be taken by the court as to the wordings
of said law? (1997 Bar Question)
NOTE: When foreign law refers to law of nations, said law is subject
to mandatory judicial notice under Sec. 1 Rule 129. Under the
Constitution, the Philippines adopts the generally accepted
principles of International Law as part of the law of the land (Sec. 2,
Art. II, 1987 Constitution). Being part of the law of the land, they
are in nature of local laws (Riano, 2013).
2.
When the foreign law refers to the law of nations, said law
is subject to mandatory judicial notice under Sec. 1 of Rule
129. Under the Philippine Constitution, the Philippines
adopt the generally accepted principles of international law
as part of the law of the land (Sec. 2, Art. II, 1987
Constitution of the Philippines). Being part of the law of the
land, they are therefore, technically in the nature of local
laws and hence, are subject to mandatory judicial notice
under Sec. 1 of Rule 129.
1.
2.
3.
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EVIDENCE
notwithstanding the fact that both cases may have been
heard or are actually pending before the same judge
(Calamba Steel Center, Inc. v. CIR, G.R. No. 151857, April 28,
2005).
XPNs:
1. When in the absence of any objection, with the
knowledge of the opposing party, the contents of said
other cases are clearly referred to by title and number
in a pending action and adopted or read into the
record of the latter;
2. When the original record of the other case or any part
of it is actually withdrawn from the archives at the
courts discretion upon the request, or with the
consent, of the parties, and admitted as part of the
record of the pending case (Jumamil v. Cafe, G.R. No.
144570, September 21, 2005).
3. When the action is closely interrelated to another case
pending between the same parties;
4. Where the interest of the public in ascertaining the
truth are of paramount importance;
5. In cases seeking to determine what is reasonable
exercise of discretion or whether or not the previous
ruling is applicable in a case under consideration; or
6. Where there is finality of a judgment in another case
that was previously pending determination and
therefore, res judicata (Herrera, 1999).
Five senses
1. Visual
2. Auditory
3. Gustatory
4. Olfactory
5. Tactile
6.
Paraffin test
A test which can establish the presence or absence of
nitrates or nitrites on the hand but the test alone cannot
determine whether the source of the nitrates or nitrites
was discharge of a firearm.
Polygraph test
An electromechanical instrument that simultaneously
measures and records certain physiological changes in the
human body that are believed to be involuntarily caused by
an examinees conscious attempt to deceive the questioner
(Wests legal thesaurus dictionary, 1986).
347
REMEDIAL LAW
witness. Be that as it may, the prosecution presented the
companions of the victim who testified that they were the
ones in the photographs. The defense objected to the
admissibility of the photographs because the person who
took the photographs was not presented as witness. Is the
contention of the defense tenable?
A: No. While the paraffin test was negative, such fact alone
did not ipso facto prove that Ron is innocent. A negative
paraffin result is not conclusive proof that a person has not
fired a gun. It is possible to fire a gun and yet be negative
for nitrates, as when the culprit is wearing gloves or he
washes his hands afterwards. Here, since Ron submitted
himself for paraffin testing only two days after the
shooting, it was likely he had already washed his hands
thoroughly, thus removing all traces of nitrates therefrom
(People v. Brecinio, G.R. No. 138534, March 17, 2004).
3.
2.
3.
4.
348
EVIDENCE
1.
2.
3.
4.
2.
3.
object
evidence
for
purposes
of
DEMONSTRATIVE EVIDENCE
Real evidence
Tangible object that played
some actual role in the
matter that gave rise to
the litigation
Intends to prove that the
object is used in the
underlying event
Demonstrative Evidence
Tangible evidence that
merely illustrates a matter
of importance in the
litigation
Intends to show that the
demonstrative object fairly
represents or illustrates a
real evidence
Illustration : Where a
drawing is presented to
illustrate
the
relative
positions
of
the
protagonists and witnesses
to
the
killing,
the
foundation
for
demonstrative
evidence
will normally consist of the
testimony of an eyewitness
or investigator stating that
the drawing was indeed
fairly
represents
the
position of those present in
the event (Francisco, 1996).
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REMEDIAL LAW
as reference. The marking of the evidence serves to
separate the marked evidence from the corpus of all other
similar or related evidence from the time they are seized
from the accused until they are disposed of at the end of
criminal proceedings, obviating switching, "planting," or
contamination of evidence (People v. Coreche, G.R. No.
182528, August 14, 2009).
Non-compliance with the procedure
Non-compliance with Sec. 21, Art. II of RA 9165 is not fatal
and will not render an accused's arrest illegal or the items
seized/confiscated from him or her inadmissible. What is
material is the proof that the transaction actually took
place, coupled with the presentation before the court of a
specimen of the seized object as part of the corpus delicti.
Non-compliance with the procedure shall not render void
and invalid the seizure of and custody of the drugs only
when:
1. Such non-compliance was under justifiable grounds;
and
2. The integrity and the evidentiary value of the seized
items are properly preserved by the apprehending
team. (People v. Dela Cruz, G.R. No. 177222, October
29,2008; People v. Rivera, G.R. No. 182347, October
17, 2008; Sec. 21 (a), Art. II, IRR of RA 9165).
NOTE: What is of utmost importance is the preservation of the
integrity and evidentiary value of the seized items, as the same
would be utilized in the determination of the guilt or innocence of
the accused. The existence of the dangerous drug is a condition
sine qua non for conviction for the illegal sale of dangerous drugs.
The dangerous drug itself constitutes the very corpus delicti of the
crime and the fact of its existence is vital to a judgment of
conviction. The chain of custody requirement performs the
function of ensuring that the integrity and evidentiary value of the
seized items are preserved, so much so that unnecessary doubts as
to the identity of the evidence are removed (People v. Rivera,
supra.).
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EVIDENCE
As long as the integrity and the evidentiary value of the
confiscated/seized items, are properly preserved by the
apprehending officer/team, the failure to issue a receipt
will not render the items seized/confiscated inadmissible as
evidence (People v. Magbanua, G.R. No. 170137, August 27,
2009).
Significance of DNA
The significance lies in the uniqueness of the totality of the
DNA of a person. It is a scientific fact that the totality of
individuals DNA is unique for the individual, except
identical twins (Sec. 3, AM No. 06-11-5-SC).
Q: During Alexis trial for rape with murder, the
prosecution sought to introduce DNA evidence against
him, based on forensic laboratory matching of the
materials found at the crime scene and Alexis hair and
blood samples. Alexis counsel objected, claiming that
DNA evidence is inadmissible because the materials taken
from Alexis were in violation of his constitutional right
against self-incrimination as well as his right of privacy
and personal integrity. Should the DNA evidence be
admitted or not? Reason. (2004 Bar Question)
MEANING OF DNA
Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA)
DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) is the chain of molecules found
in every nucleated cell of the body (Sec. 3, AM No. 06-11-5SC). It is the fundamental building block of a persons entire
genetic make-up, which is found in all human cells and is
the same in every cell of the same person (People v.
Umanito, G.R. No. 172607, October 26, 2007).
DNA profile
It is the genetic information derived from DNA testing of a
biological sample obtained from a person, which biological
sample is clearly identifiable as originating from that person
[Sec. 3(d), AM No. 06-11-5-S].
DNA evidence
It constitutes the totality of the DNA profiles, results and
other genetic information directly generated from DNA
testing of biological samples [Sec. 3(c), AM No. 06-11-5-SC].
1.
2.
DNA testing
It means verified and credible scientific methods which
include the extraction of DNA from biological samples, the
generation of DNA profiles and the comparison of the
information obtained from the DNA testing of biological
samples for the purpose of determining, with reasonable
certainty, whether or not the DNA obtained from two or
3.
4.
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5.
3.
1.
2.
3.
2.
3.
2.
1.
2.
3.
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EVIDENCE
court, after due hearing, finds the petition to be
meritorious, it shall reverse or modify the judgment of
conviction and order the release of the convict, unless
continued detention is justified for a lawful cause. The
petition shall be filed in the court of origin as a rule.
However, the rule also allows the petition to be filed either
in the CA or in the SC, or with any member of said courts. A
hearing may be conducted by the latter courts or by any
member thereof or instead of conducting a hearing, may
instead remand the petition to the court of origin and issue
the appropriate orders (Sec. 10, A.M. No. 06-11-5-SC).
4.
5.
6.
2.
3.
4.
Document
A document is a deed, instrument or other duly notarized
paper by which something is proved, evidenced or set forth
(Regalado, 2008).
NOTE: Any instrument notarized by a notary public or a competent
public official, with the solemnities required by law, is a public
document. Pleadings filed in a case and in the custody of the clerk
of court are public documents. All other documents are private
documents (Bermejo vs. Barrios, 31 SCRA 764).
Vallejo Standard
In assessing the probative value of DNA evidence,
therefore, courts should consider, among others things, the
following data:
1. How the samples were collected,
2. How they were handled,
3. The possibility of contamination of the samples,
4. The procedure followed in analyzing the samples,
5. Whether the proper standards and procedures were
followed in conducting the tests, and
6. The qualification of the analyst who conducted the
tests (People vs. Vallejo, G.R. No. 144656, May 9,
2002).
2.
3.
Writings;
Any other material containing modes of written
expressions the material contains letters, words,
numbers, figures, symbols or other modes of written
expression and offered as proof of their contents
(Riano, 2009).
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1. When the original has been lost or destroyed, or cannot
be produced in court, without bad faith on the part of
the offeror;
2. When the original is in the custody or under the control
of the party against whom the evidence is offered, and
the latter fails to produce it after reasonable notice;
3. When the original consists of numerous accounts or
other documents which cannot be examined in court
without great loss of time and the fact sought to be
established from them is only the general result of the
whole;
4. When the original is a public record in the custody of a
public officer or is recorded in a public office (Sec. 3,
Rule 130).
3.
4.
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EVIDENCE
it has no probative value (Office of the Ombudsman, vs.
Manuel P. Valencia, G.R. No. 183890, April 13, 2011).
2.
WHEN APPLICABLE
Requisites for the applicability of the Best Evidence Rule
1.
2.
NOTE: When the truth of the document is in issue and not the
contents thereof, the best evidence rule will not be applicable. In
such case, it is the hearsay rule that will apply (Riano, 2009).
Subject of inquiry
3.
When the best evidence rule comes into operation, it is
presumed that the subject of the inquiry is the contents of
the document, thus the party offering the document must
present the original thereof and not any other secondary
evidence.
2.
A:
1.
Original document
1.
355
The copy that was signed and lost is the only "original"
copy for purposes of the best evidence rule [Sec. 4 (b),
Rule 130].
2.
3.
REMEDIAL LAW
execution of the note, if not denied under oath, would be deemed
admitted (Sec. 8, Rule 9).
Secondary evidence
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
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EVIDENCE
a lost notarial will should consist of a testimony of at least
two credible witnesses who can clearly and distinctly
establish its contents (Sec. 6, Rule 76; Regalado, 2008).
2.
3.
4.
Rule 27
The
production
of
document is in the nature
of a mode of discovery and
can be sought only by
proper motion in the trial
court and is permitted only
upon good cause shown.
Contemplates a situation
wherein the document is
either assumed to be
favorable to the party in
possession thereof or that
the party seeking its
production
is
not
sufficiently informed of the
contents of the same.
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REMEDIAL LAW
Requisites for the admissibility of secondary evidence
when the original consists of numerous accounts
1.
2.
3.
Electronic Document
Refers to information or the representation of information,
data, figures, symbols or other modes of written
expression, described or however represented, by which a
right is established or an obligation extinguished, or by
which a fact may be proved and affirmed, which is received,
recorded, transmitted, stored, processed, retrieved or
produced electronically. It includes digitally signed
documents and any print-out or output, readable by sight
or other means, which accurately reflects the electronic
data message or electronic document [Sec. 1(h), Rule 2].
In the case of Ang v. Court of Appeals, G.R. No. 182835, April 20,
2010, it held that the Rules on Electronic Evidence is not applicable
to criminal actions. However, the RTC decided the case in 2001.
Thus, following the maxim that laws and rules should be
interpreted in favor of the accused, the SC did not apply the
amendment which took effect on October 2002.
Electronic Evidence
It is information stored in electronic form that is relevant to
the issues in a particular litigation (Overly, 2002).
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EVIDENCE
Proof of electronic documents
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Burden of Proof
The person seeking to introduce an electronic document in
any legal proceeding has the burden of proving its
authenticity in the manner provided in this Rule (Sec. 1,
Rule 5, REE).
Authentication of an electronic document
1.
2.
3.
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REMEDIAL LAW
what it is or for what it is claimed to be without regard to whether
or not it is authentic (Riano, 2009).
Text messages
Text messages have been classified as ephemeral electronic
communication under Section 1(k), Rule 2 of the Rules on
Electronic Evidence, and shall be proven by the testimony
of a person who was a party to the same or has personal
knowledge thereof (Vidallon-Magtolis v. Cielito Salud, A.M.
No. CA-05-20-P, September 9, 2005).
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EVIDENCE
Parol Evidence Rule
1.
2.
3.
4.
Waiver applicable
Failure to invoke the benefits of the rule constitutes as
waiver of the rule. Inadmissible evidence may be rendered
admissible by failure to object (Riano, 2009).
Kinds of ambiguities
Intrinsic or
Latent
On its face, the
writing appears
clear and
unambiguous
but there are
collateral
matters which
make the
meaning
uncertain
Curable by
evidence aliunde
condition
subsequent
3.
4.
361
Extrinsic or
Patent
Ambiguity is
apparent on the
face of the
writing and
requires that
something be
added to make
the meaning
certain
Cannot be cured
by evidence
aliunde because
it is only intrinsic
ambiguity not
extrinsic
ambiguity which
serves as an
exception to the
parol evidence
rule
Where the
contract refers
to an
unidentified
grantee or does
not particularly
identify the
subject matter
thereof such
that, in either
case the text
does not disclose
Intermediate
Ambiguity
consists in the
use of equivocal
words
susceptible of
two or more
interpretation
Curable by
evidence aliunde
Use of terms
such as dollars
tons and
ounces
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may apply
(Regalado, 2008)
Mistake
The mistake contemplated is one which is a mistake of fact
mutual to both parties (Bernardo, 2008, pg. 38 citing
Gurango vs. IAC, 215 SCRA 332). Parol evidence may only
be allowed, if any of the foregoing matters is put in issue in
the pleadings.
Failure of the written agreement to express true intent of
the parties
Parol evidence may be admitted to show the true
consideration of the contract, or the want or illegality
thereof, or the incapacity of the parties, or the fact that the
contract was fictitious or absolutely simulated, or that
there was fraud in inducement (Regalado, 2008).
Authentication
It is the process of proving the due execution and
genuineness of a document.
When authentication is NOT required
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Public Document
Private Document
What comprises it
1. The written official acts, All other writings are
or records of the official private (Sec. 19, Rule 132).
acts of the sovereign
authority, official bodies
and tribunals, and public
officers, whether of the
Philippines, or of a
foreign country;
2. Documents
acknowledged before a
notary public except last
362
EVIDENCE
conduct an examination of the questioned signature in
order to arrive at a reasonable conclusion as to its
authenticity. The opinions of handwriting experts are not
binding upon courts, especially when the question involved
is mere handwriting similarity or dissimilarity, which can be
determined by a visual comparison of specimens of the
questioned signatures with those of the currently existing
ones (Pontaoe v. Pontaoe, G.R. No. 15958, April 22, 2008).
3.
2.
1.
3.
4.
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a.
b.
1.
2.
3.
ATTESTATION OF A COPY
Whenever a copy of a document or record is attested for
the purpose of evidence, the attestation must state, in
substance:
1. That the copy is a correct copy of the original, or a
specific part thereof, as the case may be;
2. It must be under the official seal of the attesting
officer, if there be any, or if he be the clerk of a court
having a seal, under the seal of such court (Sec. 25,
Rule 132).
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EVIDENCE
regularity.
TESTIMONIAL EVIDENCE
QUALIFICATION OF A WITNESS
Qualification of a Witness
Except as provided in the next succeeding section, all
persons who can perceive, and perceiving, can make their
known perception to others, may be witnesses.
NOTE: Religious or political belief, interest in the outcome of the
case, or conviction of a crime unless otherwise provided by law,
shall not be ground for disqualification.
3.
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4.
Credibility of a witness
A testimony must not only come from a credible witness,
but must be credible in itself, tested by human experience,
observation, common knowledge and accepted conduct
that has evolved through the years (People vs. Mirandilla
Jr., G.R. 186417, July 27, 2011).
Credibility of Witness
XPNs:
1. The lower court has reached conclusions that are
clearly unsupported by evidence,
2. It has overlooked some facts or circumstances of
weight and influence which, if considered, would
affect the result of the case (People vs. Dalag, G.R. No.
129895. April 30, 2003).
DISQUALIFICATION OF A WITNESS
Disqualification of a Witness
The following are the disqualifications of a witness:
1. Disqualification by reason of mental incapacity or
immaturity (Sec. 21, Rule 130);
2. Disqualification by reason of marriage(sec. 22, Rule
130);
3. Disqualification by reason of death or insanity of
adverse party (Sec. 23, Rule 130); and
4. Disqualification on the ground cof privileged
communication (Sec. 24, Rule 130):
a. Marital privilege;
b. Attorney-client privilege;
c. Doctor-patient privilege;
d. Minister-penitent privilege; or
e. Public officer as regards communications made in
official confidence.
Presumption of Competency
GR: A person who takes the witness stand is presumed to
possess the qualifications of a witness.
XPNs: There is prima facie evidence of incompetency in the
following:
1. The fact that a person has been recently found of
unsound mind by a court of competent jurisdiction; or
2. That one is an inmate of an asylum for the insane
(Torres v. Lopez, 48 Phil. 722).
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EVIDENCE
When incompetence of the witness by reason of mental
incapacity or immaturity should exist
Mental Incapacity
The incompetence of the
witness must exist not at the
time of his perception of the
facts but at the time he is
produced for examination, and
consists in his inability to
intelligently make known what
he has perceived.
(Riano,
Evidence:
A
Restatement for the Bar, p. 255,
2009 ed.)
Relative Disqualification
The proposed witness is
prohibited to testify only
on
certain
matters
specified under the Rules
1. Disqualification
by
reason of death or
insanity of the adverse
party (dead mans
statute) (Sec. 23, Rule
130).
2. Disqualification
by
reason of privileged
communication
(Sec.
24, Rule 130).
Mental Immaturity
The incompetence of
the witness must
occur at the time the
witness perceives the
event including his
incapability to relate
his
perceptions
truthfully.
(Ibid.)
A: No. A deaf-mute is not incompetent as a witness. Deafmutes are competent witnesses where they can:
1. Understand and appreciate the sanctity of an oath;
2. Comprehend facts they are going to testify on; and
3. Communicate their ideas through a qualified
interpreter (People v. Tuangco, G.R. No. 130331,
November 22, 2001).
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Requisites for the applicability of spousal immunity
1.
2.
3.
4.
4.
The act of Bob in setting fire to the house of his sister-inlaw, knowing fully well that his wife was there, is an act
totally alien to the harmony and confidences of marital
relation which the disqualification primarily seeks to
protect. The criminal act complained of had the effect of
directly and vitally impairing the conjugal relation. It
underscored the fact that the marital and domestic
relations between her and the accused-husband have
become so strained that that there is no more harmony,
peace or tranquility to be preserved (Alvarez v. Ramirez,
G.R. No. 143439, Oct. 14, 2005).
Extent of prohibition
The prohibition extends not only to a testimony adverse to
the spouse but also to a testimony in favor of the spouse. It
also extends to both criminal and civil cases and not only
consists of utterances but also the production of
documents (State vs. Bramlet, 114 S.C. 389,103 S.E. 755;
Riano, 2009).
Who can claim spousal immunity
A:
1.
The spouse who can object is the spouse-party and not the
spouse-witness.
Q: May a spouse testify in a trial where the party-spouse is
a co-accused?
A: Yes. The spouse could testify in a murder case against
the other co-accused, which was jointly tried with accusedspouses case. This testimony cannot, however, be used
against accused-spouse directly or through the guise of
taking judicial notice of the proceedings in the murder case
without violating the marital disqualification rule, if the
testimony is properly objected (People v. Quidato, 297
SCRA 1).
2.
Q: Ivy was estranged from her husband Bob for more than
a year due to Bobs suspicion that she was having an affair
with Jeff, their neighbor. Ivy was temporarily living with
her sister in Pasig City. For unknown reasons, the house of
Ivys sister was burned, killing the latter. Ivy survived. Ivy
saw her husband in the vicinity during the incident. Later,
Bob was charged with arson in an Information filed with
the RTC, Pasig City. During the trial, the prosecutor called
Ivy to the witness stand and offered her testimony to
prove that her husband committed arson. Can Ivy testify
UNIVERS ITY OF SANTO TOMAS
2014 GOLDEN NOTES
368
EVIDENCE
or demand against the estate of such deceased person or
against such person of unsound mind, cannot testify as to
any matter of fact occurring before the death of such
deceased person or before such person became of unsound
mind (Sec. 23, Rule 130).
1.
2.
3.
4.
2.
3.
369
REMEDIAL LAW
Dead Mans Statute v. Marital Disqualification Rule
Dead Mans Statute
Only
a
partial
disqualification as the
witness is not completely
disqualified but is only
prohibited from testifying
on the matters therein
specified
Applies only to a civil case
or special proceeding over
the estate of a deceased
or insane person
The
rule
prohibits
testimony that is against
the
estate
of
the
deceased.
Marital Disqualification
Rule
A complete and absolute
disqualification
4.
3.
Marital Privilege
Disqualification by reason of marital privilege
The husband or the wife, during or after the marriage,
cannot be examined without the consent of the other as to
any communication received in confidence by one from the
other during the marriage except in a civil case by one
against the other, or in a criminal case for a crime
committed by one against the other or the latter's direct
descendants or ascendants (Sec. 24 (a), Rule 130).
Disqualification By
Reason of Marital
Privilege (Sec. 24, (a))
Can be claimed whether
or not the other spouse is
a party to the action
Can be claimed even after
the marriage is dissolved
Applies
only
to
confidential
communications received
during
the
marriage
between the spouses
The married person is on
the stand but the
objection of privilege is
raised when confidential
marital communication is
inquired into
370
EVIDENCE
Q: In June 1998, A told B that he killed C. After a year, A
married B. Upon the offer of testimony of B for the alleged
killing of C, can A validly make an objection?
Attorney-Client Privilege
1.
2.
3.
Attorney-client relation;
The privilege is invoked with respect to a confidential
communication or advice between them in the course
of or with a view to professional employment; and
The client has not given his consent to the attorneys
testimony; or if the attorneys secretary, stenographer
or clerk is sought to be examined, that both the client
and the attorney have not given their consent
(Regalado, 2008).
371
REMEDIAL LAW
Confidential communication
372
EVIDENCE
questions under cross-examination on matters which are
supposedly privileged, the waiver also exists. There could
also be waiver by operation of law (Sec. 4, Rule 28).
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
2.
3.
4.
5.
4.
Waiver of Privilege
A:
1.
373
REMEDIAL LAW
disease, would be sufficient to blacken the reputation
of any patient (Gonzales v. CA, G.R. No. 117740,
October 30, 1998).
2.
Priest-Penitent Privilege
Priest-penitent privilege
1.
2.
3.
4.
2.
NOTE: The court, not the witness, will determine the necessity of
regarding the communication as privileged (Francisco, 1992).
Executive privilege
Certain types of information like military, diplomatic and
other national security matters may be withheld from the
public.
374
EVIDENCE
A: No. As held in the case of Senate of the Philippines vs.
Ermita, G.R. No. 169777, April 25, 2006), the Court upheld
the doctrine of executive privilege but it found E.O. 464
partly constitutionally defective, specifically Secs. 2(b) and 3
which required government officials below the heads of
executive departments to secure consent from the
President before appearing in congressional hearings and
investigations. The Court noted that E.O. 464 covers
persons, which is a misuse of the doctrine because the
privilege is to be properly invoked in relation to specific
categories of information and not categories of persons
(Riano, 2013).
3.
A:
1.
3.
2.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
375
REMEDIAL LAW
Q: Can a privileged information be otherwise disclosed
upon a production order issued by the court pursuant to
Rule 27 of the Rules of Court?
Affirmation
It is a substitute for an oath and is solemn and formal
declaration that the witness will tell the truth.
EXAMINATION OF A WITNESS
Examination of a witness
NOTE: The reason for the requirement that the examination of the
witnesses would be given in open court orally is to enable the court
to judge the credibility of the witness by witness manner of
testifying, their intelligence, and their appearance.
XPNs:
The testimony of the witness may not be given in open
court in the following case:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
376
EVIDENCE
Classifications of immunity statutes
Q: May a judge exclude a witness during the course of the
trial?
A: GR: Yes, the judge may exclude from the court any
witness not at the time under examination, so that he may
not hear the testimony of other witnesses. The judge may
also cause witnesses to be kept separate and to be
prevented from conversing with one another until all shall
have been examined (Sec. 15, Rule 132).
XPN: The following may not be excluded:
1. Parties in a civil case;
2. Expert witness;
3. Agent of the party, when the presence of such agent is
necessary, as when the agent has gained such
familiarity with the facts that this presence is
necessary for the proper management of the action or
defense;
4. Complaining witness; or
5. Accused (Francisco, 1992)
Recantation of a witness
1.
2.
Rights of a witness
2.
3.
4.
5.
1.
Transactional Immunity
Grants immunity to the
witness from prosecution
for an offense to which his
compelled testimony
relates. It is an immunity
from prosecution by
reason or on the basis of
the testimony (Galman v.
Pamaran, 138 SCRA)
377
Ordinary Witness
May be compelled to
testify by subpoena,
having only the right to
refuse to answer a
particular incriminating
REMEDIAL LAW
cannot be compelled to do
so even by subpoena or
other process or order of
the court. He cannot be
required either for the
prosecution, for co-accused
or even for himself.
378
1.
2.
Cross examination
a. To impeach the credibility of the testimony;
EVIDENCE
b.
c.
d.
3.
4.
Redirect examination
a. To afford opportunity to the witness to explain or
amplify his testimony during cross-examination;
and
b. To explain any apparent contradiction or
inconsistency in his statements.
Scope of a cross-examination
1.
Re-cross examination
a. To overcome the proponents attempt to
rehabilitate the witness; and
b. To rebut damaging evidence brought out during
redirect examination.
2.
Past Recollection
Recorded
A witness may also testify
from such writing or
record, though he retains
no recollection of the
particular facts, if he is
able to swear that the
writing or record correctly
stated the transaction
when made, but such
evidence must be received
with caution
There is no recollection
The main evidence is the
memorandum
Witness must swear that
the writing correctly states
the transaction
2.
379
REMEDIAL LAW
3.
3.
4.
5.
6.
NOTE: The adverse party should object thereto or ask the court to
expunge the answer from the records, if he has already given his
answer.
XPNs:
1. The examination has not been concluded; or
2. If the recall of the witness was expressly reserved by a
party with the approval of the court. In these two cases the
recall of a witness is a matter of right (Regalado, 2008).
Impeachment of a witness
It is a technique employed usually as part of crossexamination to discredit a witness testimony by attacking
his credibility (Riano, 2013).
Ways of impeaching an adverse partys witness
1.
2.
3.
On preliminary matters;
NOTE: A question is preliminary if it does not touch on any
issue.
By contradictory evidence;
By evidence that the general reputation for truth,
honesty or integrity of the witness is bad and
By prior inconsistent statements (Sec. 11, Rule 132).
Leading question
2.
Misleading question
Recalling
1.
380
EVIDENCE
By contradictory
evidence
Refers to the
prior testimony
of the same
witness or other
evidence
presented
by
him in the same
case, but not the
testimony
of
other witness
By evidence that
his general
reputation for
truth, honesty,
or integrity of
the witness is
bad
Since the weight
of the witness
testimony
depends on his
credibility,
he
may
be
impeached
by
impairing
his
credibility
by
showing his not
pleasing
reputation but
only as regards
his
reputation
for
truth,
honesty
or
integrity.
By prior
inconsistent
statements
laying the
predicate"
Refer
to
statements, oral
or documentary
made by the
witness sought
to be impeached
on
occasions
other than the
trial in which he
is testifying
1.
2.
3.
381
REMEDIAL LAW
Laying the predicate v. Laying the foundation or basis
Laying the Predicate
Refers
only
to
impeachment of a
witness
through
prior
inconsistent
statements
consideration
Do not require proof and
may be contradicted only
by showing that it was
made through palpable
mistake or that no such
admission was made (Sec.
4, Rule 129).
Judicial admissions need
not be offered in evidence
since it is not evidence. It
is superior to evidence and
shall be considered by the
court as established.
Conclusive
upon
the
admitter
Admissible even if selfserving
Subject
to
crossexamination
CIVIL CASE
It is NOT an
admission of
any
liability
and is NOT
admissible
against
the
offeror.
CRIMINAL CASE
GR: It may be received in evidence as
an implied admission of his guilt.
XPNs:
1. In quasi-offenses where there is no
criminal intent (negligence) such as
reckless imprudence
EXTRAJUDICIAL
ADMISSIONS
Those made out of court
or in a judicial proceeding
other than the one under
Rebuttable
JUDICIAL ADMISSIONS
Admission
A statement of fact which
does not involve an
acknowledgment of guilt
or liability
May be made by third
persons and in certain
cases,
are
admissible
against a party
Applies to both criminal
and civil cases
May be express or implied
382
EVIDENCE
Q: What is the underlying reason for the adoption of the
rule against the admission of an offer of compromise in
civil cases? (1998 Bar Question)
1.
2.
A:
1.
2.
Ordinary Admission
To admit the liability and
to seek or secure relief
against
a
liability
recognized as such.
Admissibility
Not admissible in evidence
agains tthe accused who
made the plea
Not admissible in evidence
agains tthe accused who
made the offer
Not admissible in evidence
as proof of civil or criminal
liability for the injury
(Suarez and De la Banda,
Evidence: A Lawyers
Companion, 2006 ed.)
Unaccepted offer
An offer in writing to pay a particular sum of money or to
deliver a written instrument or specific personal property
is, if rejected without valid cause, equivalent to the actual
production and tender of the money, instrument, or
property (Sec. 35, Rule 130).
383
REMEDIAL LAW
2 branches of res inter alios acta rule
1.
2.
Classifications of admissions
Express
Implied
Judicial
Extrajudicial
Admission of a party
Adoptive
Self-serving declaration
It is one which has been made extra-judicially by the party
to favor his interest. It is not admissible in evidence
because they are inherently untrustworthy, and would
open the door to fraud and fabrication of testimony.
NOTE: Self-serving evidence are inadmissible because the adverse
party is not given the opportunity for cross-examination, and their
admission would encourage fabrication of testimony (Hernandez
vs. CA, 228 SCRA 429).
384
EVIDENCE
against him was the testimony of Jovita in a previous
criminal case wherein the accused therein, Pacita, was
convicted of theft and where she stated that Francisco
bought stolen jewelries from her. Can the admission in the
previous case be used against Francisco?
NOTE: The rationale for the rule is based on the presumption that
no man would declare anything against himself unless such
declaration was true. Thus, it is fair to presume that the declaration
corresponds to the truth, and it is his fault if it is not (Rufina Patis
Factory v. Alusitain, 434 SCRA 419).
Requisites for an admission of a partner to bind his copartners or for an agent to bind his principal
1.
2.
3.
Dissolved Partnership
385
REMEDIAL LAW
late President Marcos. The other heirs also made separate
admissions in their pleadings. What is the value of these
admissions?
ADMISSION BY A CONSPIRATOR
When extrajudicial
admission
admission
becomes
judicial
Admission by a conspirator
While it is true that statements made by a conspirator
against a co-conspirator are admissible only when made
during the existence of the conspiracy, if the declarant
repeats the statement in court, his extrajudicial confession
becomes a judicial admission, making the testimony
admissible as to both conspirators (People v. Baharan, 639
SCRA 157, January 10, 2011).
ADMISSION BY PRIVIES
A conspiracy exists when two or more persons come to an
agreement concerning the commission of a felony and
decide to commit it.
Admission by privies
NOTE: Once conspiracy is proven, the act of one is the act of all.
The statement therefore of one may be admitted against the other
co-conspirators as an exception to the rule of res inter alios acta.
Privies
1.
2.
3.
1.
2.
3.
386
EVIDENCE
A: No. The admission of a former owner of a property must
have been made while he was the owner thereof in order
that such admission may be binding upon the present
owner. Hence, Luceros act of executing the 1968
document have no binding effect on Del Monte, the
ownership of the land having passed to it in 1964 (Gevero v.
IAC, 189 SCRA 201).
withdrew its support from him as President and Commander-inChief. Thus, Angara had to allegedly ask Senate President Pimentel
to advise Estrada to consider the option of dignified exit or
resignation. Estrada did not object to the suggested option but
simply said he could never leave the country. According to the
court, his silence on this and other related suggestions can be
taken as adoptive admissions by him (Estrada v. Desierto, G.R. Nos.
146710-15, April 3, 2001).
ADMISSION BY SILENCE
CONFESSIONS
Admission by silence
Confessions
1.
1.
2.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Judicial
confession
CLASSIFICATION OF CONFESSIONS
One made by the accused before an
open court in which the case is pending
and in the course of legal proceedings
therein and, by itself, can sustain
conviction and is admissible against ones
co-accused. It is governed by Secs. 1, 3 &
4 of Rule 116.
Extrajudicial
confession
387
REMEDIAL LAW
admissible against his co-accused. It is
governed by Sec. 33 of Rule 130
(Regalado, 2008).
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
388
EVIDENCE
SIMILAR ACTS AS EVIDENCE
2nd Branch of the Res Inter Alios Acta Rule (Sec. 34, Rule
130)
HEARSAY
MEANING OF HEARSAY
Hearsay evidence
It includes:
1. Any evidence, whether oral or documentary, is
hearsay if its probative value is not based on the
personal knowledge of the witness but on the
knowledge of some other person not on the witness
stand (Regalado, 2008).
2. It also includes all assertions which have not been
subjected to cross-examination by the adverse party at
the trial in which they are being offered against him
(Herrera, 1999).
Hearsay Rule
It states that a witness can testify only to those facts which
he knows of based on his personal knowledge or those
which are derived from his own perception (Sec. 36, Rule
130).
1.
2.
389
REMEDIAL LAW
statements of another person, spoken in a language not
understood by him, but translated for him by an
interpreter, such witness is not qualified, because he does
not speak from personal knowledge. All that he can know
as to the testimony is from the interpretation thereof which
is in fact given by another person.
OUT-OF-COURT STATEMENTS
Classification of out-of-court statements:
1.
2.
3.
DOUBLE HEARSAY
Double hearsay
It is a testimony based on third hand information related to
the witness by someone who heard it from others.
Q: Romeo is sued for damages for injuries suffered by the
plaintiff in a vehicular accident. Julieta, a witness in court,
testifies that Romeo told her that he heard Antonio, a
witness to the accident, gives an excited account of the
accident immediately after its occurrence. Is Julietas
testimony admissible against Romeo over proper and
timely objection? Why? (2002 Bar Question)
A: No, because while the excited account of Antonio, a
witness to the accident, was told to Romeo, it was only
Romeo who told Julieta about it, which makes it hearsay.
390
EVIDENCE
A: Yes. The testimony of Annie is admissible in evidence as
an independently relevant statement. It is offered in
evidence only to prove the tenor thereof, not to prove the
truth of the facts asserted therein. Independently relevant
statements include statements which are on the very facts
in issue or those which are circumstantial evidence thereof.
The hearsay rule does not apply.
NON-HUMAN EVIDENCE
It is the testimony of a witness as to statements made by a
non-human declarant (e.g. machines and computers). It
does not violate the rule on hearsay, hence not covered by
the Rule. Machines and animals, unlike humans, lack
conscious motivation to tell falsehoods. The workings of the
machines can be explained by human witnesses who may
then be cross-examined (Herrera, 1999).
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Time interval
It is not correct to say that the exceptions to the hearsay rule are
not hearsay. They are hearsay evidence but they are deemed
admissible by reason of necessity and trustworthiness.
DYING DECLARATION
Dying Declaration
The declaration of a dying person, made under the
consciousness of an impending death, may be received in
any case wherein his death is the subject of inquiry, as
evidence of the cause and surrounding circumstances of
such death (Sec. 37, Rule 130).
Utterances;
Actual character and seriousness of his wounds; and
By the declarants conduct and the circumstances at
the time he made the declaration, whether he
expected to survive his injury (Regalado, 2008).
391
REMEDIAL LAW
11 hours after the crime, while Kitchie was being brought
to the hospital in a jeep, with his brother and a policeman
as companions, Kitchie was asked certain questions which
she answered, pointing to Sam as her assailant. Her
answers were put down in writing, but since she was in a
critical condition, her brother and the policeman signed
the statement. Is the statement admissible as a dying
declaration? Explain. (1999 Bar Question)
2.
3.
4.
392
EVIDENCE
ACT OR DECLARATION ABOUT PEDIGREE
Pedigree
It includes relationship, family genealogy, birth, marriage,
death, the dates when and the places where the facts
occurred and the names of the relatives. It also embraces
facts of family history intimately connected with pedigree
(Ibid.).
3.
4.
2.
393
Section 40
Family reputation or
tradition regarding
pedigree
Family
reputation
or
tradition
regarding
pedigree
Witness is a member of the
family
The witness is the one to
whom the fact relates, it is
not necessary for him to
establish by independent
evidence his relationship
to the family (Francisco, p.
292, 1992 ed.)
REMEDIAL LAW
Testimony is about what
the declarant has said
concerning the pedigree of
the family
COMMON REPUTATION
Common Reputation
Common reputation existing previous to the controversy,
respecting facts of public or general interest more than
thirty years old, or respecting marriage or moral character,
may be given in evidence. Monuments and inscriptions in
public places may be received as evidence of common
reputation (Sec. 41, Rule 130).
2.
4.
1.
1.
2.
3.
2.
394
EVIDENCE
3.
NOTE: The test for the admissibility of evidence as part of the res
gestae is whether the act, declaration, or exclamation is so
intimately interwoven or connected with the principal fact or event
that it characterizes as to be regarded a part of the principal fact or
event itself, and also whether it clearly negates any premeditation
or purpose to manufacture testimony (People vs. Villarico Sr., April
4, 2011).
Dying Declaration
A sense of impending
death takes the place of an
oath and the law regards
the declarant as testifying
Can be made by the victim
only
Confined
to
matters
occurring
after
the
homicidal act
Justification
is
the
trustworthiness,
being
given by the person who
was
aware
of
his
impending death
equivocal act;
4. The statement gives a
legal significance to the
equivocal act. (Talidano
v. Falcom Maritime &
Allied Services, Inc., G.R.
No. 172031, July 14,
2008)
Spontaneous Statements
Statements or exclamations
made immediately after
some exciting occasion by a
participant or spectator and
asserting the circumstances
of that occasion as it is
observed by him.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Requisites:
1. The principal act to be
characterized must be
equivocal;
2. The equivocal act must
be material to the issue;
3. The statement must
accompany
the
395
REMEDIAL LAW
ENTRIES IN THE COURSE OF BUSINESS or
THE SHOP-BOOK RULE
Official record
2.
NOTE: The law does not fix any precise moment when the entries
should be made as long as the entry was made within a reasonable
period of time so that it may appear to have taken place while the
memory of the facts was unimpaired.
2.
396
EVIDENCE
Exception to the best
evidence
rule
(irremovability of public
records)
1.
2.
Historical works;
Scientific treatises; or
Law (Francisco, 1992).
1.
2.
3.
4.
1.
2.
3.
1.
4.
2.
3.
4.
5.
LEARNED TREATIES
Learned treatises
A published treatise, periodical or pamphlet on a subject of
history, law, science, or art is admissible as tending to prove
397
REMEDIAL LAW
Grounds which make a witness unable to testify in a
subsequent case
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
NOTE: The use of the word may, signifies that the use of opinion of
expert witness is permissive and not mandatory on the part of the
courts. It only assists the court in the determination of the issue
before it, and is for the court to adopt or not to adopt depending
on its appreciation of the attendant facts and the applicable law
(Tabao v. People, July 20, 2011).
Death
Insanity or mental incapacity or the former witness
loss of memory through old age or disease;
Physical disability by reason of sickness or advanced
age;
The fact that the witness has been kept away by
contrivance of the opposite party; or
The fact that after diligent search the former witness
cannot be found (Francisco, 1992).
Expert Witness
He is one who belongs to the profession or calling to which
the subject matter of the inquiry relates and who possesses
special knowledge on questions on which he proposes
special knowledge to express an opinion (Regalado, 2008).
Before one may be allowed to testify as an expert witness,
his qualification must first be established by the party
presenting him, i.e., he must be shown to possess the
special skill or knowledge relevant to the question to which
he is to express an opinion (People vs. Fundano, 291 SCRA
356).
NOTE: The judges notes are not evidence of what the witness said,
and, as a rule, they can be used only to refresh the memory of a
witness.
OPINION RULE
Opinion
A person's thought, belief, or inference, especially a
witness's view about facts in dispute, as opposed to
personal knowledge of the facts themselves (Blacks Law
Dictionary, 2004).
GR: The opinion of a witness is not admissible. The witness
must testify to facts within their knowledge and may not
state their opinion, even on their cross-examination.
NOTE: An expert witness may base his opinion either on the firsthand knowledge of the facts or on the basis of hypothetical
questions where the facts are presented to him hypothetically and
on the assumption that they are true, formulates his opinion on
such hypothesis.
XPNs:
1. Opinion of expert witness
2. Opinion of ordinary witnesses
Opinion Evidence
Expert evidence based on
the personal knowledge,
skill, experience or training
of the person testifying
and evidence of an
ordinary
witness
on
limited matters.
Expert evidence
It is the testimony of a person (expert witness) possessing
knowledge not usually acquired by other persons in a
particular subject matter.
NOTE: It is admissible when the matter to be established requires
expertise and the witness have been qualified as an expert.
398
EVIDENCE
testified that the signatures in the deed of sale and the
other sample signatures are the same. However, the PNP
handwriting expert declared that the person who signed
are not the same person. The lower court gave credit and
based the ruling on the testimony of the PNP handwriting
expert on the fact that the said witness has better
credentials than the NBI witness. Is the ruling valid,
because of the fact that the court based the ruling on the
credentials?
As to the
Prosecution
They may not
prove the bad
moral character
of the accused
which
is
pertinent to the
moral
trait
involved in the
offense charged,
unless
in
rebuttal when
the
accused
opens the issue
by introducing
evidence of his
good
moral
character
As to the
Offended Party
His good or bad
moral character
may be proved
as long as it
tends
to
establish in any
reasonable
degree
the
probability
or
improbability of
the
offense
charged
CIVIL CASES
Character evidence in civil cases
The moral character of either party thereto cannot be
proved unless it is pertinent to the issue of character
involved in the case (Sec. 51, Rule 130).
CHARACTER EVIDENCE
Character
Cross-examination
Independent evidence of bad character
XPNs:
1. Subject to certain exceptions in criminal cases;
2. In civil cases;
3. In case the character of a witness has been
previously impeached.
399
REMEDIAL LAW
establish in any reasonable degree the probability or
improbability of the offense charged. In this case, the
evidence is not relevant.
2.
Ordinary Witness
Opposing counsels are
allowed to ask questions
during
preliminary
examination
Testimony in a narrative
form is not allowed
Leading questions are
generally not allowed
An ordinary witness is not
assisted by a support
person
1.
2.
3.
Capacity of observation
Capacity of recollection; and
Capacity of communication (People v. Nang, 289 SCRA
16).
400
EVIDENCE
testifying falsely, such party may pray for leave to conduct a voire
dire examination on such witness to test his competency. The court
may also motu proprio conduct the voir dire examination. In United
States v. Buncad, the Court held that when a child of tender age is
presented as a witness, it is the duty of the judge to examine the
child to determine his competency (People v. Bisda y Gaupo, G.R.
No. 140895, July 17, 2003).
1.
2.
3.
COMPETENCY EXAMINATION
Competency Examination
How conducted
Facilitator
Support person
He is a person chosen by the child to accompany him to
testify at or attend a judicial proceeding or deposition to
provide emotional support for him [Sec. 4(f)].
Corroboration of testimony of child witness NOT required
Corroboration shall not be required for the testimony of a
child. His testimony, if credible by itself, shall be sufficient
to support a finding of fact, conclusion, or judgment subject
to the standard of proof required in criminal and noncriminal cases (Sec. 22).
Developmental level
It refers to the specific growth phase in which most
individuals are expected to behave and function in relation
to the advancement of their physical, socio-emotional,
cognitive, and moral abilities [Sec. 4(h)].
401
REMEDIAL LAW
LIVE-LINK TV TESTIMONY OF A CHILD WITNESS
1.
NOTE: The rights of the accused during trial, especially the right to
counsel and to confront and cross-examine the child, shall not be
violated during the deposition [Sec. 27(d)]. After the original
videotaping but before or during trial, any party may file any
motion for additional videotaping on the ground of newly
discovered evidence. The court may order an additional
videotaped deposition to receive the newly discovered evidence.
[Sec. 27(j)].
2.
6.
7.
8.
5.
PROTECTIVE ORDERS
Other measures provided under the rule for the
protection of the privacy and safety of a child witness
1.
402
EVIDENCE
c.
d.
e.
f.
2.
Defense counsel;
The guardian ad litem;
Agents of investigating law enforcement
agencies; and
Other persons as determined by the court
g.
3.
4.
6.
7.
8.
GR: The court shall consider only the evidence which has
been formally offered. The purpose for which the evidence
is offered must be specified (Sec. 34, Rule 132).
XPNs:
1. Marked exhibits not formally offered may be admitted
provided it complies with the following requisites:
a. Must be duly identified by testimony duly
recorded; and
b. Must have been incorporated in the records of
the case (Ramos v. Dizon, G.R. No. 137247,
August 6, 2006);
2. Under the Rule on Summary Procedure, where no full
blown trial is held in the interest of speedy
administration of justice;
403
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3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
NOTE: It is basic in the law of evidence that the court shall consider
evidence solely for the purpose for which it was offered. (Ragudo
vs. Fabella Estate Tenants Asso. Inc., 466 SCRA 136)
OFFER OF EVIDENCE
Purposes of offer of evidence
1.
2.
3.
404
EVIDENCE
1.
2.
2.
The res inter alios acta rule does not apply because
Matet testified in open court and was subjected to
cross-examination.
NOTE: The offer shall be done orally unless allowed by the court to
be in writing (Sec. 35, Rule 132).
OBJECTION
Ways of impeaching the evidence of the proponent
1.
2.
Purposes of objections
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
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offer unless a different period is allowed by the court. In
any case, the grounds for objection must be specified (Sec.
36).
Testimonial Evidence
1st: When the offer was made;
2nd: When an objectionable
question is asked of the witness.
REPETITION OF AN OBJECTION
Rules on continuing objections
Documentary and
Object Evidence
When the document
is offered in
evidence.
XPNs:
1. Where the question has not been answered, it is
necessary to repeat the objection when the evidence
is again offered or the question is again asked;
2. Incompetency is shown later;
3. Where objection refers to preliminary question,
objection must be repeated when the same question is
again asked during the introduction of actual evidence;
4. Objection to evidence was sustained but reoffered at a
later stage of the trial;
5. Evidence is admitted on condition that its competency
or relevance be shown by further evidence and the
condition is not fulfilled, the objection formerly
interposed must be repeated or a motion to strike out
the evidence must be made; and
6. Where the court reserves the ruling on objection, the
objecting party must request a ruling or repeat the
objection.
RULING
2.
Alternative Answers:
1. Specific objections e.g. Parol evidence and best
evidence rule.
2. General objections e.g. Continuing objections (Sec.
37).
a. objection to a question propounded in the course
of the oral examination of the witness; and
b. objection to an offer of evidence in writing
2.
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EVIDENCE
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
i.
2.
1.
2.
3.
1.
2.
3.
2.
Offer of Evidence
Refers to testimonial,
documentary or object
evidence
that
are
presented or offered in
court by a party so that
the court can consider his
evidence when it comes to
the preparation of the
decision
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Kinds of presumptions of law
PRESUMPTIONS
Presumptions
1.
2.
Conclusive Presumptions
CONCLUSIVE PRESUMPTIONS
Presumption v. Inference
PRESUMPTION
It is mandated by law and
establishes a legal relation
between or among the
facts.
Is a deduction directed by
law
INFERENCE
It is a factual conclusion
that can rationally be
drawn from other facts
(Riano, 2013).
It
is
a
permissive
deduction
(Francisco,
1996 )
2.
Effect of presumption
A party in whose favor the legal presumption exists may
rely on and invoke such legal presumption to establish a
fact in issue. One need not introduce evidence to prove the
fact for a presumption is prima facie proof of the fact
presumed (Diesel Construction, Inc v. UPSI property
Holdings, Inc., GR No. 154937, March 24, 2008).
Presumption of law v. Presumption of fact
PRESUMPTION OF LAW
(Praesumptiones Juris)
It is a deduction which the
law expressly directs to be
made from particular
facts.
A certain inference must
be made whenever the
facts appear which furnish
the basis of the inference.
Reduced to fixed rules and
form a part of the system
of jurisprudence
PRESUMPTION OF FACT
(Praesumptiones
Hominis)
It is a deduction which
reason draws from the
facts proved without an
express direction from law
to that effect.
Discretion is vested in the
tribunal as to drawing the
inference.
Derived
wholly
and
directly
from
the
circumstances of the
particular case by means
of
the
common
experience of mankind
Has to be pleaded and
proved
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EVIDENCE
Effect of estoppel in pais
2.
3.
3.
4.
Disputable Presumptions
Those which are satisfactory if uncontradicted, but may be
contradicted and overcome by other evidence (Sec. 3, Rule
131).
Disputable presumptions under Section 3 of Rule 131
2.
3.
4.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Estoppel by deed
The doctrine is founded in public convenience and policy,
because it tends to encourage honesty and good faith
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d.
b.
c.
6.
7.
The presumption does not apply during incustody investigation (People vs. Camat, 256
SCRA 52);
When the official conduct in question is irregular
on its face (People v. Obmiranis, GR. No. 181492,
Dec. 16, 2008);
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EVIDENCE
iii.
iv.
A child born before 180 days after the subsequent marriage is conceived during the former marriage, provided it is born
within 300 days after the termination of the former marriage.
A child born after 180 days following the subsequent marriage is considered to have been conceived during the subsequent
marriage, even though it be born within the 300 days after the termination of the former marriage.
no presumption of
legitimacy or illigitimacy
conceived during the
subsequent marriage
conceived during the
former marriage
termination of
1st marriage
subsequent marriage
NOTE: There is no presumption of legitimacy or illegitimacy when a child is born after 300 days following dissolution of marriage or the separation
of the spouses. Whoever alleges the legitimacy or illegitimacy of such child must prove his allegation (Sec. 4, rule 131).
411
First Person
Second
Person
Presumed To Have
Survived
older
younger
< 15
>15 and < 60
male
>15 and < 60
female
< 15
< 15 or > 60
15-60
The male
The older
The one between those
ages
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37. That if there is a doubt, as between two or more
persons who are called to succeed each other, as to
which of them died first, whoever alleges the death of
one prior to the other, shall prove the same; in the
absence of proof, they shall be considered to have
died at the same time (Sec. 3, Rule 131).
2.
Weight of evidence
It is the probative value given by the court to particular
evidence admitted to prove a fact in issue.
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EVIDENCE
positive and credible (Ceniza-Manantan v. People, G.R. No.
156248, August 28, 2007).
2.
3.
Alibi
It is a defense where an accused claims that he was
somewhere else at the time of the commission of the
offense. It is one of the weakest defenses an accused may
avail because of the facility with which it can be fabricated,
just like a mere denial (People v. Esperanza, G.R. Nos.
139217-24, June 27, 2003). When this is the defense of the
accused, it must be established by positive, clear and
satisfactory evidence.
Out-of-court identification
It is a means of identifying a suspect of a crime and is done
thru:
1. Show-ups: where the suspect alone is brought face to
face with the witness for identification;
NOTE: Eyewitness identification is often decisive of the
conviction or acquittal of an accused. Identification of an
accused through mug shots is one of the established
procedures in pinning down criminals. However, to avoid
charges of impermissible suggestion, there should be nothing
in the photograph that would focus attention on a single
person. (People v. Villena, G.R. No. 140066, October 14, 2002)
Extrajudicial
conviction
confession NOT
2.
3.
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officers are certain of the identity of the offender, they need
not require any police line-up anymore (Tapdasan, Jr. v.
People, G.R. No. 141344, November 21, 2002).
Corpus delicti
It is the actual commission by someone of the particular
crime charged. It refers to the fact of the commission of the
crime, not to the physical body of the deceased or to the
ashes of a burned building. The corpus delicti may be
proven by the credible testimony of a sole witness, not
necessarily by physical evidence (Rimorin v. People, G.R. No.
146481, April 30, 2003).
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EVIDENCE
SUBSTANTIAL EVIDENCE
PREPONDERANCE OF EVIDENCE
Preponderance of Evidence
1.
2.
3.
4.
415