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3G Evidence Reviewer PDF
3G Evidence Reviewer PDF
COLLEGE OF LAW 1
Mendiola, Manila
REVIEWER ON
EVIDENCE AND
TRIAL TECHNIQUE
Submitted by:
Block 3G
A.Y. 2019-2020
Submitted to:
Atty. Rowell Ilagan
Professor in Evidence
Table of Contents
Rule 128 4
General provisions
Rule 129 9
What Need Not Be Proven
Rule 130 14
Rules of Admissibility
Rule 131 77
Burden of Proof, Burden of Evidence and
Presumptions
Rule 132 88
Presentation of Evidence
Rule 133 113
Sufficiency and Weight of Evidence
RULES ON ELECTRONIC EVIDENCE 120
A.M. No. 01-7-01-SC
August 1, 2001
RULES ON DNA EVIDENCE 127
A.M. No. 06-11-5-SC
OCTOBER 2, 2007
RULE ON EXAMINATION OF A CHILD WITNESS 131
A.M. No. 004-07-SC
DECEMBER 15, 2000
JUDICIAL AFFIDAVIT RULE 138
A.M. No. 12-8-8-SC
September 04, 2012
REPUBLIC ACT NO. 6981 144
AN ACT PROVIDING FOR A WITNESS
PROTECTION, SECURITY AND BENEFIT
PROGRAM AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
Example: The original copy of the contract as evidence of its Section 2. Scope. — The rules of evidence shall be the same
contents in all courts and in all trials and hearings, except as otherwise
provided by law or these rules.
2. Secondary
Evidence which is inferior to primary evidence and shows However, there are material differences between rules on
on its face that better evidence exist civil in criminal procedures. To wit:
Note: The exceptions are applicable only when the case is Judicial Notice of Other Matters
clearly referred to or the original or part thereof are actually 1. The trial court can take judicial notice of the
withdrawn from the archives and admitted as part of the general increase in rentals or real estate especially
record of the case then pending. of business establishments (Catunggal vs. Hao, G.R.
No. 134972, March 22, 2001).
1. ORIGINAL DOCUMENT (or BEST EVIDENCE) General Rule: The original writing must be produced and
RULE provided (RIGUERA, supra at 354)
Requisites: (DC) Under the best evidence rule, the original document must
(a) The subject matter must involve a Document; and be produced whenever its contents are the subject of
(b) The subject of the inquiry is the Contents of the inquiry. A photocopy, being mere secondary evidence, is not
document admissible unless it is shown that the original is
unavailable. Before a party is allowed to adduce secondary
Waiver of the Rule: Mere photocopies of documents are evidence to prove the contents of the original, the offeror
inadmissible pursuant to the best evidence rule. must prove the following:
Nevertheless, evidence not objected to is deemed admitted 1. The existence or due execution of the original.
and may be validly considered by the court in arriving at its
judgment. Courts are not precluded to accept in evidence a 2. The loss and destruction of the original or the
mere photocopy of a document when no objection was reason for its non-production in court; and
raised when it was formally offered. (Lorenzana v. Lelina, 3. On the part of the offeror, the absence of bad faith
G.R. No. 187850, August 17, 2016) to which the unavailability of the original can be
attributed.
When Document is Merely Collaterally in Issue: A
document is collaterally in issue when the purpose of The correct order of proof is as follows: existence,
introducing the document is not to establish its terms but to execution, loss, and contents
show facts that have no reference to its contents like its
(ECED) Existence, Condition, Execution or Delivery. In this Question: When the original of a document is presented. Is
case, the best evidence rule does not apply. (RIANO, p. 191) it automatically admitted?
When Original Documentary Evidence is not closely- Answer: No. It has to undergo the process of
related to a Controlling Issue in a Case: There is no need authentication, except if the document is a public document.
to produce the original of an irrelevant document, where
such document or evidence was nevertheless admitted in
evidence (note: evidence in order to be admissible must be
When the original document has been lost or destroyed, or When opponent does not dispute contents
cannot be produced in court, the offeror, upon proof of its Production of the original may be dispensed with in the trial
execution or existence and the cause of its unavailability court’s discretion whenever the opponent does not bona
fide dispute the contents of the documents and no other
While the L.C. Map may be considered a public document 3. Parol Evidence Rule
and prima facie evidence of the facts stated therein, the
map, to be admissible for any purpose, must be evidenced Section 10. Evidence of written agreements
by an official publication thereof or by a copy attested by
the officer having legal custody of the records. The rules of When the terms of an agreement have been reduced
admissibility must be applied uniformly. The same rule to writing, it is considered as containing all the terms
holds true when the Government is one of the parties. agreed upon and there can be, as between the parties
(SAAD-Agro Industries v. Republic, G.R. 152570, September and their successors in interest, no evidence of such
27, 2006) terms other than the contents of the written
agreement.
No Particular Form for Certification
The Rules does not require that the certification should be However, a party may present evidence to modify,
in a particular form. The four-page Resolution dated explain or add to the terms of the written agreement
December 8, 1997 contains a stamped certification signed if he or she puts in issue in a verified pleading:
by Police Inspector David U. Ursua of the Legal Service, PNP
Regional Office I of Parian, San Fernando, La Union. The (a) An intrinsic ambiguity, mistake or
three-page Decision dated February 28, 1997 has the imperfection in the written agreement
handwritten authentication of Police Inspector Mario L. (b) The failure of the written agreement to
Aduan, also from the same office, on each and every page. express the true intent and agreement of
They ought to satisfy the requirement of the Rules on the parties thereto;
certification. (Cabugao y Sison v. People, G.R. 158033, July (c) The validity of the written agreement
30, 2004) (d) The existence of other terms agreed to by
the parties or their successors in interest
Affidavits after the execution of the agreement.
While affidavits may be considered as public documents if
they are acknowledged before a notary public, these The term “agreement” includes wills.
affidavits are still classified as hearsay evidence. The reason
for this rule is that they are not generally prepared by the
PAROL EVIDENCE BEST EVIDENCE RULE Under this Rule, the terms of a contract are rendered
RULE conclusive upon the parties and evidence aliunde is not
admissible to vary or contradict a complete and enforceable
As to Applicability agreement embodied in a document. (Rosario Textile v.
Home Bankers, G.R. No. 137232, June 29, 2005)
With the exception of Applies to all kinds of Documents Referred to in the Written Agreement
wills, applies only to writings What is forbidden under the parol evidence rule is the
written agreement presentation of oral or extrinsic evidence, not those
expressly referred to in the written agreement. "Documents
As to Availability of Original Document can be read together when one refers to the other." By the
express terms of the deed of assignment, it is clear that the
deed of assignment was meant to be read in conjunction
Requisites for Applicability: (VW-PIT) 2. Ascertain the subject of the oral agreement
(a) There must be a Valid contract; offered to be proved. To this effect, the parol
(b) The terms of the writing must be reduced into evidence may be admitted provisionally.
Writing
(c) The dispute is between Parties and their 3. A comparison should be made between the
successors-in-interest writing and the oral negotiation and from that
(d) Grounds for applicability must be put in Issue in comparison it may be seen whether or not the
the pleadings, and subject of the writing is separate and distinct from
(e) There is dispute as to the Terms of the agreement that of the oral negotiation.
Reason: A written agreement does not preclude PAROL EVIDENCE RULE APPLICABLE TO WILLS
the parties from entering into any subsequent
agreement modifying or altering the first written General Rule: No evidence on the terms of the will and its
agreement. To hold otherwise would in effect say attestation clause is admissible other than the content of the
that a written agreement cannot be amended or will.
modified thereafter.
(RIGUERA, supra at 518) Exception:
Art. 789. When there is an imperfect description, or when
no person or property exactly answers the description;
Time‐honored is the rule that "In the construction of an Section 17. Experts and interpreters to be used in
instrument where there are several provisions or explaining certain writings
particulars, such a construction is, if possible, to be adopted
as will give effect to all." Article 1374 of the New Civil Code, When the characters in which an instrument is
on the other hand, requires that "The various stipulations of written are difficult to be deciphered, or the
a contract shall be interpreted together, attributing to the language is not understood by the court, the
doubtful ones that sense which may result from all of them evidence of persons skilled in deciphering the
taken jointly." Consequently, petitioners' interpretation characters, or who understand the language, is
solely based on the first clause, and which completely admissible to declare the characters or the meaning
ignored the second clause under scrutiny, cannot be upheld. of the language.
(Home Development v. CA, G.R. No. 118971, April 3, 1998)
Section 18. Of two constructions, which preferred
Section 13. Interpretation according to intention;
general and particular provisions When the terms of an agreement have been intended
in a different sense by the different parties to it, that
In the construction of an instrument, the intention of sense is to prevail against either party in which he or
the parties is to be pursued; she is supposed the other understood it.
When a general and a particular provision are When different constructions of a provision are
inconsistent, the latter is paramount to the former. otherwise equally proper, that is to be taken which is
So a particular intent will control a general one that the most favorable to the party in whose favor the
is inconsistent with it. provision was made.
Contra Proferentem Rule Based on jurisprudence, testimonial evidence has the least
weight, if incredible.
The doctrine provides that in the interpretation of
documents, ambiguities are to be construed against the Reason: Man’s memory is being relied upon. Moreover,
drafter. By its very nature, the precept assumes the both parties and their witnesses will recall only those
existence of an ambiguity in the contract, which is why favorable to them and deliberately forget those which are
contra proferentem is also called the ambiguity doctrine. In adverse to them (People v. Pasco, G.R. No. L-68520, January
this case, the Deed of Real Estate Mortgage clearly 22, 1990).
establishes that the improvements found on the real
properties listed therein are included as subject-matter of SECTION 21. Witnesses; their qualifications.—All
the contract. It covers not only the real properties, but the persons who can perceive, and perceiving, can make known
buildings and improvements thereon as well. (Cahayag v. their perception to others, may be witnesses.
Commercial Credit Corporation, G.R. No. 168078 & 168357,
January 13, 2016) Religious or political belief, interest in the outcome of the
case, or conviction of a crime, unless otherwise provided by
In resolving this ambiguity, we refer to a basic principle in law, shall not be a ground for disqualification.
the law of contracts: "Any ambiguity is to be taken contra
proferentem, that is, construed against the party who Qualifications of a Witness
caused the ambiguity which could have avoided it by the Any person who:
exercise of a little more care." 35 Therefore, the ambiguity in a. Can perceive
the mortgage deed whose terms are susceptible of different b. Is perceiving; and
interpretations must be read against the bank that drafted c. Can make known his perception to others (ROC,
it. Consequently, we cannot impute grave error on the part RULE 130, Sec. 21).
of the courts a quo for not appreciating a charge of 18%
interest per annum. (Asia Trust Development Bank v. Tuble, Presumption in Favor of Competence of Witness
G.R. No. 183987, July 25, 2012) As a general rule, a person who takes the stand as a witness
is presumed to be qualified to testify. A party who desires
Section 19. Construction in favor of natural right to question the competence of a witness must do so by
making an objection as soon as the facts tending to show
When an instrument is equally susceptible of two incompetency are apparent (RIANO, Evidence: The Bar
interpretations, one in favor of natural right and the Lectures Series (2016), p. 181 [hereinafter, RIANO]).
other against it, the former is to be adopted.
Changes Made From the Old Rule (Sec.20) to the New
Section 20. Interpretation according to usage Rule (Sec. 21)
Old Rule (Sec. 20) New Rule (Sec. 21)
An instrument may be construed according to usage, Witnesses; their Witnesses; their
in order to determine its true character. qualifications. – Except as qualifications. – All
provided in the next persons who can perceive,
Note: Rules for the interpretation of a contract are provided succeeding section, all and perceiving, can make
by Arts. 1370 to 1379 of the Civil Code. For rules on persons who can perceive, known their perception to
interpretation or construction of wills, see Articles 788 to and perceiving, can make others, may be witnesses.
794 of the same Code. known their perception to
others, may be witnesses. Religious or political
belief, interest in the
QUALIFICATIONS OF WITNESSES Religious or political belief, outcome of the case, or
interest in the outcome of conviction of a crime,
TESTIMONIAL EVIDENCE the case, or conviction of a unless otherwise provided
crime, unless otherwise by law, shall not be a
Since the witness Francisco Manalo is not convicted of any Witness Must Have Personal Knowledge
of the above-mentioned crimes to disqualify him as a A witness bereft of personal knowledge of the disputed fact
witness and this case does not involve the probate of a will, cannot be called upon for that purpose because her
the Supreme Court ruled that the fact that said witness is testimony derives its value not from the credit accorded to
facing several criminal charges when he testified did not in her as a witness presently testifying but from the veracity
any way disqualify him as a witness (People v. Umali, G.R. No. and competency of the extrajudicial source of her
84450, February 4, 1991). information.
Note: This rule was formerly Section 36, and was the basis Reason for the rule:
for the hearsay rule. Under the amendment, the hearsay 1. There is identity of interests between husband and
rule is at Section 37. wife;
2. If one were to testify for or against the other, there is
Changes Made From the Old Rule (Sec. 36) to the New consequent danger of perjury;
Rule (Sec. 22) 3. The policy of the law is to guard the security and
Old Rule (Sec. 36) New Rule (Sec. 22) confidences of private life, even at the risk of an
Testimony generally Testimony confined to occasional failure of justice, and to prevent domestic
confined to personal personal knowledge. – A disunion and unhappiness; and
knowledge; hearsay witness can testify only to 4. Where there is want of domestic tranquility there is
excluded. – A witness can those facts which he or she danger of punishing one spouse through the hostile
testify only to those facts knows or his or her testimony of the other (Alvarez v. Ramirez, G.R. No.
which he knows of his personal knowledge; that 143439, October 14, 2005).
personal knowledge; that is, which are derived from
is, which are derived from his or her own perception. Changes Made From the Old Rule (Sec. 22) to the New
his own perception, except Rule (Sec. 23)
as otherwise provided in Old Rule (Sec. 22) New Rule (Sec. 23)
these rules. Disqualification by reason Disqualification by reason
of marriage.—During their of marriage.—During their
marriage, neither the marriage, the husband or
Mysterious Letter Cannot Negate the Resignation of husband nor the wife may the wife cannot testify
President Estrada testify for or against the against the other without
Under any circumstance, the mysterious letter cannot other without the consent the consent of the affected
negate the resignation of the petitioner. It was prepared of the affected spouse, spouse, except in a civil
before the press release of the petitioner clearly as a later except in a civil case by one case by one against the
act. If, however, it was prepared after the press release, still, against the other, or in a other, or in a criminal case
it commands scant legal significance. Petitioner's criminal case for a crime for a crime committed by
resignation from the presidency cannot be the subject of a committed by one against one against the other or
changing caprice nor of a whimsical will especially if the the other or the latter’s the latter’s direct
resignation is the result of his reputation by the people direct descendants or descendants or
(Estrada v. Desierto, G.R. No. 146710-15, March 2, 2001). ascendants. ascendants.
A "psychotherapist" is: What is the rule when the communication was made in
(a) A person licensed to practice medicine engaged in the presence of third persons?
the diagnosis or treatment of a mental or emotional
condition, or General Rule: They are not regarded as confidential and
(b) A person licensed as a psychologist by the are not protected by the privilege (FRANCISCO, supra at
government while similarly engaged. 414).
(d) A minister, priest or person reasonably believed to Exception: If a confidential communication made by one
be so cannot, without the consent of the affected spouse to the other is overheard by a third person, the
person, be examined as to any communication or communication does not cease to be confidential between
confession made to or any advice given by him or her, the spouses, and neither of them can testify without the
in his or her professional character, in the course of consent of the other (FRANCISCO, supra at 414).
discipline enjoined by the church to which the minister
or priest belongs. If the third party comes into possession of the
communication by collusion and voluntary disclosure on
(e) A public officer cannot be examined during or after his the part of either of the souses, he thereby becomes an agent
or her tenure as to communications made to him or her of such spouse and cannot testify without the consent of the
in official confidence, when the court finds that the other (Id.)
public interest would suffer by the disclosure.
Absolute Freedom of Communication between Spouses
The communication shall remain privileged, even in the The intimacies between husband and wife do not justify any
hands of a third person who may have obtained the one of them in breaking the drawers and cabinets of the
information, provided that the original parties to the other and in ransacking them for any telltale evidence of
communication took reasonable precaution to protect marital infidelity. A person, by contracting marriage, does
its confidentiality. not shed his/her integrity or his right to privacy as an
individual and the constitutional protection is ever
A. Privileged Communication between Husband and available to him or to her.
Wife (Sec. 24(a))
The law insures absolute freedom of communication
Requisites: between the spouses by making it privileged. Neither
1. There was a valid marital relation; husband nor wife may testify for or against the other
2. The privilege is invoked with respect to a confidential without the consent of the affected spouse while the
communication between the spouses given during said marriage subsists. Neither may be examined without the
marriage; and consent of the other as to any communication received in
3. The spouse against whom such evidence is being confidence by one from the other during the marriage, save
offered has not given his or her consent to such for specified exceptions (Zulueta v. CA, G.R. No. 107383,
testimony (REGALADO, Remedial Law Compendium February 20, 1996).
Volume II (2008), p. 748 [hereinafter REGALADO]).
B. Privileged Communication between Attorney and
Is a valid marriage essential before invoking this Client (Sec. 24(b))
privilege?
Yes. It is essential that they be legally married. If they live Attorney-Client Privilege
together in illicit cohabitation, they are not entitled to the Requisites:
privilege. It is immaterial whether they believe in good faith 1. There is an attorney or a person reasonably believed by
that they were legally married, if in fact they were not the client to be licensed to engage in the practice of law
(FRANCISCO, Basic Evidence (2017), p. 413 [hereinafter and client relationship or a kind of consultancy
FRANCISCO]). relationship with a prospective client
2. The privilege is invoked with respect to a confidential
Does death affect the privilege? communication between them made in the course of or
No. The rule rendering one spouse incompetent to testify to with a view to professional employment; and
confidential communications is not affected by the death of
What is the duration of the privilege? General rule: There is a privilege not to disclose one’s
Even after the public officer is no longer in government trade secrets.
service, the privilege still exists (From the lectures of Dean
Inigo, Atty. Europa, Atty. Espejo) Exception: Trial courts may compel disclosure where
it is indispensable for doing justice (FRANCISCO, supra
What is executive privilege? at 434).
The power of the government to withhold information from
the public, the courts, and the Congress or the right of the 5. Bank deposits (R.A. No. 1405, Sec. 2)
President and high level executive branch to withhold While Section 2 of R.A. No. 1405 declares bank deposits
information from Congress, and ultimately the public to be “absolutely confidential,” it nevertheless allows
(Senate v. Ermita, G.R. No. 169777, April 20, 2006). such disclosure in the following instances:
1. Upon written permission of the depositor,
Is executive privilege absolute? 2. In cases of impeachment,
No. Any claim of executive privilege must be weighed 3. Upon order of a competent court in cases of
against other interests recognized by the constitution, like bribery or dereliction of duty of public officials,
the state policy of full public disclosure of all transactions 4. In cases where the money deposited is the subject
involving public interest, the right of the people to matter of the litigation (PNB v. Gancayco, G.R. No. L-
information on matter of public concern, the accountability 18343, September 30, 1965).
This rule only applies to extrajudicial declarations The individual and separate admissions of each respondent
(People v. Raquel, G.R. No. 119006, December 2, 2006). bind all of them pursuant to Sec. 29, Rule 130 of the Rules
of Court. The declaration of a party is admissible against a
Hence, statements made in open court by a witness party whenever a "privity of estate" exists between the
implicating persons aside from him are admissible as declarant and the party. It generally denotes a succession of
declarations from one who has personal knowledge of rights. Without doubt, privity exists among the respondents
the facts testified to (RIANO, supra at 256). in this case. Where several co-parties exist, who are jointly
interested in the subject matter of the controversy, the
Inadmissibility of Extrajudicial Declaration of Accused admission of one is competent against all (Republic v.
As a general rule, the extrajudicial declaration of an Sandiganbayan, G.R. No. 152154, July 15, 2003).
accused, although deliberately made, is not admissible and
does not have probative value against his co-accused. It is Statements made after partnership is dissolved
merely hearsay evidence as far as the other accused are General Rule: Statements made after the partnership has
concerned (People v. Alegre, G.R. No. L-30423, November 7, been dissolved do not fall within the exception
1979).
Exception: Where the admissions are made in connection
SECTION 30. Admission by co-partner or agent.—The act with the winding up of the partnership affairs, said
or declaration of a partner or agent authorized by the party admissions are still admissible as the partner is acting as an
to make a statement concerning the subject, or within the agent of his co-partners in said winding up (REGALADO,
scope of his or her authority, and during the existence of the supra at 759).
partnership or agency, may be given in evidence against
such party after the partnership or agency is shown by
Changes Made From the Old Rule (Sec. 31) to the New Changes Made From the Old Rule (Sec. 32) to the New
Rule (Sec. 32) Rule (Sec. 33)
Old Rule (Sec. 31) New Rule (Sec. 32)
Admission by privies – Admission by Privies – Old Rule (Sec. 32) New Rule (Sec. 33)
Where one derives title to Where one derives title to Admission by silence – An Admission by Silence – An
property from another, the property from another, the act or declaration made in act or declaration made in
act, declaration, or latter’s act, declaration, or the presence and within the presence and within
omission of the latter, omission, in relation to the the hearing or observation the hearing or observation
while holding title, in property, is evidence of a party of a party who of a party of a party who
relation to the property, is against the former if done does or says nothing when does or says nothing when
evidence against the while the latter was the act or declaration is the act or declaration is
former. holding the title. such as naturally to call for such as naturally to call for
action or comment if not action or comment if not
Privies are persons who are partakers or have an interest true, and when proper and true, and when proper and
in any action or thing, or any relation to another (Black’s possible for him to do so, possible for him or her to
Law Dictionary, 5th Ed., p. 1077, cited in RIANO, supra at 262). may be given in evidence do so, may be given in
against him. evidence against him or
Examples of privies: her.
a. Lessor and his lessee
b. Grantor and grantee Usual pattern for its admissibility:
c. Assignor and assignee, in an estate or contract 1) There’s a statement by a person in the presence of a
d. Executor or administrator and the estate of the party to the action, criminal or civil;
deceased, in representation 2) The statement contains assertion against the party
e. Heir and his ascendant, in succession. which, if untrue, would be sufficient cause for the party
to make a denial; and
Accordingly, when the former owner of the property made 3) His failure to speak against the statement is admissible
the declaration after he ceased to be the owner of the as an admission (RIANO, supra at 254).
property, the rule on admission by privies does not apply.
What applies is the general rule that the rights of a party
Changes Made From the Old Rule (Sec. 33) to the New A confession is not required to be in any particular form. It
Rule (Sec. 34) may be oral or written or informal in character. It may be
recorded on video tape, sound motion pictures, or tape.
Old Rule (Sec. 33) New Rule (Sec. 34) HOWEVER, while not required to be in writing to be
Confession – The Confession – The admissible in evidence, it is advisable, if not otherwise
declaration of an accused declaration of an accused recorded by video tape or other means, to reduce the
acknowledging his guilt of acknowledging his or her confession to writing (People v. Satorre, G.R. No. 133858,
the offense charged, or of guilt of the offense August 12, 2003).
any offense necessarily charged, or of any offense
included therein, may be necessarily included The rule is well-settled that a confession is presumed to be
given in evidence against therein, may be given in voluntary and that the confessant, who bears the burden of
him. evidence against him or proving otherwise must duly substantiate his claim that the
her. admissions on his affidavit are untrue and unwillingly
executed (People v. Dela Cruz, G.R. No. L-32661, July 20,
Confession is an acknowledgment in express words, by the 1982).
accused in a criminal case, of the truth of the offense
An accused’s confession made to a Bantay Bayan made Old Rule (Sec. 34) New Rule (Sec. 35)
without the assistance of the counsel is inadmissible in Similar acts as evidence. – Similar Acts as Evidence. –
evidence. Inquiry made by a Bantay Bayan has the color of Evidence that one did or Evidence that one did or
a state-related function and entitles the suspect to his did not do a certain thing at did not do a certain thing at
Miranda right (People v. Lauga, G.R. No. 186228, March 15, one time is not admissible one time is not admissible
2010). to prove that he did or did to prove that he or she did
not do the same or similar or did not do the same or
The accused’s admissions before Barangay Tanods and thing at another time; but similar thing at another
Barangay officials made in public with other persons it may be received to prove time; but it may be
present were held admissible even though the accused was a specific intent or received to prove a specific
not afforded his Miranda rights (People v. Sace, G.R. No. knowledge, identity, plan, intent or knowledge,
178063, April 5, 2010). system, scheme, habit, identity, plan, system,
custom or usage, and the scheme, habit, custom or
General Rule: An extrajudicial confession is admissible like. usage, and the like.
against the confessor only. It is an incompetent evidence
against his co-accused for being hearsay and because of the General Rule: Evidence that one did or did not do a certain
res inter alios acta rule. thing at one time is not admissible to prove that he did or
Exceptions: When admissible against the co-defendants as did not do the same or similar thing at another time.
well –
a. If the accused persons voluntarily and independently Exceptions: It may be received to prove –
executed identical confession without collusion, and a. Specific intent;
corroborated by other evidence – Interlocking b. Knowledge;
Confessions; c. Identity;
b. When the confessant testified for his co-defendant; d. Plan;
c. If the co-defendants impliedly acquiesced in or adopted e. System;
said confession; f. Scheme;
d. Where the accused admitted the facts stated by the g. Custom;
confessor after being apprised of such confession; h. Habit; or
e. If they are charged as co-conspirators of the crime i. Usage; and
which was confessed by one of the accused and said j. The like (ROC, RULE 130, Sec. 34).
confession is used only as corroborating evidence;
f. Where the confession is used as circumstantial The rule is founded upon reason, public policy, justice and
evidence to show the probability of participation by the judicial convenience. The fact that a person has committed
co-conspirator; or the same or similar acts at some prior time affords, as a
g. Where the co-conspirator’s extrajudicial confession is general rule, no logical guaranty that he committed the act
corroborated by other evidence of record (2 in question. Besides, if evidence of similar acts are to be
REGALADO, supra at 772-773). invariably admitted, they will give rise to a multiplicity of
collateral issues and will subject the defendant to surprise
as well as confuse the court and prolong the trial (Citibank,
N.A. v. Sebeniano, G.R. No. 156132, October 12, 2006).
Note: However, a statement may not be admitted Independently Relevant Statements (Apparent
under this exception unless the proponent makes Hearsay)
known to the adverse party, sufficiently in advance A declarant’s statement may have relevance to an issue in a
of the hearing, or by the pre-trial stage in the case case from the mere fact that the words were spoken or
of a trial of the main case, to provide the adverse written, irrespective of the truth or falsity of the assertion
party with a fair opportunity to prepare to meet it, (RIANO, supra at 294).
the proponent’s intention to offer the statement
Issue: Whether or not Guivencan’s testimony on the ledgers “I believe that I am entitled to the presumption of innocence
is inadmissible as judicial evidence for being hearsay. until my guilt is proven beyond reaso nable doubt. Although
I admit that I performed acts that may take one’s life away,
Held: YES. Section 36 of Rule 130, Rules of Court, states that I hope and pray that justice will be served in the right way.
witness can testify only to those facts that she knows of her God bless us all.
personal knowledge; that is, which are derived from his
own perception, except as otherwise provided in these (Sgd.) Rene”
rules. Since Guivencan was not the one who prepared the
said ledger, her testimony could not be considered reliable. The trial court convicted Rene of homicide on the basis of
The Prosecution’s defense was that the ledgers was done in PO2 Asintado’s testimony, Kulasa’s statements, and Rene’s
the ordinary course of business and, therefore, exempt from statement to the press.
the hearsay rule, as per Section 43, Rule 130 of the Rules of
Court. However, Prosecution and the RTC failed to consider On appeal, Rene raises the following errors:
the requisites in applying this rule, such as that the person A) The trial court erred in giving weight to PO2 Asintado’s
who made the entry must be dead or unable to testify. testimony, as the latter did not have personal
However, this is not true with the current case, therefore knowledge of the facts in issue, and violated Rene’s
Section 43, Rule 130 of the Rules of Court could not be right to due process when it considered Kulasa’s
applied. The testimony is therefore proven to be hearsay statements despite lack of opportunity for her cross-
and inadmissible. examination. (2014 BAR QUESTION)
B) The trial court erred in holding that Rene’s statement
APPLICATION OF THE LAW TO VARIOUS to the press was a confession which, standing alone,
HYPOTHETICAL SCENARIOS: would be sufficient to warrant a conviction. Resolve.
(2014 BAR QUESTION)
QUESTION NO. 1:
Counsel A objected to a question posed by opposing Counsel SUGGESTED ANSWER:
B on the grounds that it was hearsay and it assumed a fact A) The trial court did not err in giving weight to PO2
not yet established. The judge banged his gavel and ruled by Asintado’s testimony.
saying "Objection Sustained". Can Counsel B ask for a
reconsideration of the ruling? Why? (2012 BAR QUESTION) While a witness can only testify as to those facts which
he has personal knowledge of, the Rules provide that a
SUGGESTED ANSWER: statement made under the influence of a startling event
Yes, Counsel B may ask the Judge to specify the grounds witnessed by the person who made the declaration
relied upon for sustaining the objection and thereafter before he had time to think and make up a story, or to
move for its reconsideration thereof. (Rule 132, Sec.38, Rules concoct or contrive a falsehood, or to fabricate an
of Court). account, and without any undue influence in obtaining
it, aside from referring to the event in question or its
QUESTION NO. 2: immediate attending circumstances, is an exception
While passing by a dark uninhabited part of their barangay, being part of res gestae. In the case, the statements
PO2 Asintado observed shadows and heard screams from a made by PO2 Asintado constitutes part of res gestae
distance. PO2 Asintado hid himself behind the bushes and since the same were made without any opportunity to
saw a man beating a woman whom he recognized as his fabricate and while a startling occurrence was actually
neighbour, Kulasa. When Kulasa was already in agony the taking place.
man stabbed her and she fell on the ground. The man
hurriedly left thereafter. PO2 Asintado immediately went to
QUESTION NO. 4:
Umali filed a complaint against Justice Hernandez for grave
misconduct and gross ignorance of the law. He alleged,
among others, that it was "relayed" to him that he needed
to pay P15 million if he wanted to be acquitted; and that it
was a one-time, "take it or leave it" offer. Will the action
prosper?
SUGGESTED ANSWER:
Reason for Admissibility In People vs. Toledo and Holgado (G.R. No. L-28655, August 6,
1. Necessity – because of the impossibility of obtaining 1928), it was opined by three justices that a declaration
other evidence from the same source, the declarant admitting that he was the one who killed the victim, made
being unavailable in person on the stand. by a declarant who died shortly thereafter, is admissible
2. Trustworthiness – there is a presumption that men where another person was subsequently charged as the
will not falsify to their prejudice (FRANCISCO, supra at killer of the same victim, under the theory that said
284). declaration was one against the penal interest of the
declarant. This would be a justifiable theory since under our
The law does not require that the entries in the said booklet Common Reputation
be made at the same time as the occurrence of those events; The definite opinion of the community in which the fact to
hence, the written memorandum in the same is not subject be proved is known or exist. It means the general or
to the defect attributed to it. The witness Joaquin Jose de substantially undivided reputation, as distinguished from a
Inchausti declared affirmatively that the memorandum partial or qualified one, although it need not be unanimous
under consideration has been written in the handwriting of (REGALADO, p. 787).
his-brother Ramon Martinez de Viademonte, whose
handwriting he was familiar with, and the testimony of this It must be a common reputation existing previous to the
witness contains some reference to a member of the family, controversy, as to boundaries of or customs affecting lands
now dead, and concerning the family genealogy of the same in the community and reputation as to events of general
(Ferret vs. de lnchausti, G.R. No. L-12993, 1918). history important to the community (ROC, RULE 130, Sec.
43).
SECTION 43. Common reputation.—Common reputation
existing previous to the controversy, as to boundaries of or What may be Established by Common Reputation
customs affecting lands in the community and reputation as 1. Matters as to boundaries of or customs affecting lands
to events of general history important to the community in the community and reputation as to events of general
respecting facts of public o general interest more than thirty history important to the community.
years old, or respecting marriage or moral character, may 2. Matters respecting marriage or moral character and
be given in evidence. Monuments and inscriptions in public related facts; or
places may be received as evidence of common reputation.
It is not essential for the officer making the official Entries in the Course
Entries in Official Records
statement to have a personal knowledge of the facts stated of Business
by him, it being sufficient that the official information was As to Whether the Entrant be Dead
acquired by officers who prepared the reports from persons The person who made There is no such requirement.
who do not only have personal knowledge of the facts stated the entries must be
but must have the duty to give such statements for the dead or unable to
record (Africa v. Caltex, G.R. No. 12986, March 31, 1966). testify.
As to the Need of Authentication
Official records are admissible in evidence regardless of Needs authentication Need not be authenticated
whether the officer or person who made them was As to What Rule Applies
presented and testified in court, since these entries are Best evidence rule Exception to best evidence
considered prima facie evidence of the facts stated therein applies rule
(Fullero v. People, G.R. No. 170583, September 12, 2007). As to the Reasons for the Entry
The entries are made The entrant is a public officer,
Police Blotter pursuant to a duty, or if a private individual, must
Entries in a police blotter though regularly done in the which is legal, have acted pursuant to a
course of performance of official duty are not conclusive contractual, moral or specific legal duty.
proof of the truth of such entries. Entries in official records religious.
like a police blotter are only prima facie evidence of the facts (RIANO, supra at 322-333, 327-328).
set out, since the entries in the police blotter could well be
incomplete or inaccurate (People v. Cabuang, Jr., G.R. No.
Private Persons Specially Enjoined by Law
103292, January 27, 1993). The following are examples of private persons specially
enjoined by law to make official entries:
Entries in Public Records (1) A ship captain is required to keep log book entries
Documents consisting of entries in public records made in
regarding the incidents of navigation (CODE OF
the performance of a duty by a public officer are prima facie COMMERCE, Art. 612);
evidence of the facts therein. As such, the certifications
(2) A drawee of a check is required to secure a stamp of
issued by the local civil registrar and the clerk of court dishonor and its reason under B.P. No. 22;
regarding details of petitioner’s adoption which are entered
(3) Parties to a marriage ceremony and the solemnizing
in the records kept under their official custody, are prima officer are required to sign and attest the marriage
facie evidence of the facts contained therein (Reyes v. Sotero, certificate and the solemnizing officer is required to
G.R. No. 167405, February 16, 2006). keep a copy (FAMILY CODE, Art. 23).
A transfer certificate of title, without testimony of the
Entry Made By a Public Officer of a Foreign Country
person giving the certification, is sufficient and competent While the text of Section 46, Rule 130 would appear to
evidence which is an exception to the hearsay rule as
indicate that such entry is not excepted from the hearsay
provided in Section 46, Rule 130 (Escobar v. Luna, G.R. No. rule, it is submitted that it is so excepted taking into account
169204, March 23, 2007).
Section 19(a) and Section 23 of Rule 132.
The trustworthiness of public documents and the value
Section 19(a) classifies as public documents the written
given to the entries made therein could be grounded on: official acts or records of the official acts of public officers,
1. The sense of official duty in the preparation of the whether of the Philippines or of a foreign country.
statement made;
2. The penalty which is usually affixed to a breach of that
duty;
Note: A return of service of summons executed by a foreign It is presumed that a printed or published book, purporting
sheriff is admissible to prove the fact of service even to contain reports of cases adjudged in tribunals of a foreign
without presenting the foreign sheriff in court. It may be country where the book is published, contained correct
presented as prima facie evidence of the fact of service. reports of such cases (ROC, RULE 131, Sec. 3(hh)).
However, the requirements of proof of official record under
Section 24, Rule 132 must be followed (RIGUERA, supra at Price Quotations do not fall under Commercial Lists
858). A PNOC ship collided with private respondent’s fishing ship
resulting in the latter ship sinking. Private respondent sued
SECTION 47. Commercial lists and the like.—Evidence of PNOC for recovery of the value of the ship and damages. In
statements of matters of interest to persons engaged in an order to prove damages, private respondent offered in
occupation contained in a list, register, periodical, or other evidence quotation letters from a ship builder and
published compilation is admissible as tending to prove the equipment dealers quoting the price of a fishing ship,
truth of any relevant matter so stated if that compilation is fishing gear and equipment similar to those lost by private
published for use by persons engaged in that occupation respondent. The persons who wrote the quotation letters
and is generally used and relied upon by them therein. were however not presented by private respondent in
court.
Requisites of Admissibility
The following requisites must be complied with for the The Supreme Court ruled that the price quotations are
commercial list hearsay exception to apply: hearsay, and they do not fall under the commercial lists
1. There is a list, register, periodical, or other published exception because they are not published in any list,
compilation; register, periodical or other compilation on the relevant
2. Such published compilation contains statements of subject matter. Neither are they “market reports or
matters of interest to persons engaged in an quotations” as they are not “standard handbooks or
occupation; periodicals, containing data of everyday professional need
3. The compilation is published for use by persons and relied upon in the work of the occupation.” The price
engaged in that occupation; and quotations are simply letters issued personally to private
4. The compilation is generally used and relied upon by respondent’s General Manager as response to his queries
the persons engaged in that occupation (RIGUERA, (PNOC Shipping & Transport Corp. v. CA, G.R. No. 107518,
supra at 850-851). October 8, 1998).
Reasons for Admissibility Note: The new rule (Section 49) adds the testimony or
1. Necessity – the ordinary expert witness has no deposition of a witness out of the Philippines or who
knowledge derived from personal observation. He cannot, with due diligence be found therein or is
virtually reproduces, literally or in substance, unavailable, in addition to one who is unable to testify.
conclusions of others which he accepts on the authority
of the eminent names responsible for them. It would be 2. The testimony or deposition of the witness was given in
costly to refuse to accept information from a competent a former case or proceeding, judicial or administrative,
source ready at hand (5 HERRERA, supra at 764). between the same parties or those representing the
2. Trustworthiness – the learned writers have no motive same interests;
to misrepresent. Perhaps, they may be biased in favor 3. The former case involved the same subject as that in the
of a certain theory, but it is a bias in favor of the truth present case, although on different causes of action;
as they see it and most importantly, it is not a bias in 4. The issue testified to by the witness in the former trial
favor of a litigant in the lawsuit. is the same issue involved in the present case; and
5. The adverse party had an opportunity to cross-examine
Examples the witness in the former case (Manliclic v. Calaunan,
History books and published findings of scientists fall G.R. No. 150157, January 25, 2007).
within this exception (RIANO, supra at 329). Legal treatises
are also included in this exception (REGALADO, supra at Though said section speaks only of testimony and
796). deposition, it does not mean that documents from a former
case or proceeding cannot be admitted. Said documents can
Is an article on the web by an expert covered by the be admitted they being part of the testimonies of witnesses
learned treatise exception? that have been admitted. Accordingly, they shall be given
No. “Published” refers to one done by publishing houses and the same weight as that to which the testimony may be
intended for sale or distribution to the public. Such entitled (Id.)
publication, with the safeguards of editorial and peer
review, assures quality ad authoritativeness of the treatise, Deposition in Another Case or Proceeding Inadmissible
periodical, or pamphlet and guards against inferior or in Criminal Case
mediocre material. Such safeguards are not present in the In criminal cases, either party may utilize as part of its
internet where almost anybody can post an article and evidence the testimony of a witness who is deceased, out of
represent himself to be an expert (RIGUERA, supra at 862- or cannot with due diligence be found in the Philippines,
863). unavailable, or otherwise unable to testify, given in another
case or proceeding, judicial or administrative, involving the
SECTION 49. Testimony or deposition at a former same parties and subject matter, the adverse party having
proceeding.—The testimony or deposition of a witness the opportunity to cross-examine him (ROC, RULE 115, Sec.
deceased or out of the Philippines or who cannot, with due 1(f)).
diligence, be found therein, or is unavailable or otherwise
unable to testify, given in a former case or proceeding, The rule on former testimony or deposition in civil cases
judicial or administrative, involving the same parties and (Sec. 47, Rule 130) is substantially similar to that in criminal
subject matter, may be given in evidence against the cases (Sec. 1(f), Rule 115), with the notable distinction that
adverse party who had the opportunity to cross-examine a deposition is not mentioned in Section 1(f), Rule 115.
him or her. Taking into account the constitutional right of
confrontation, it is opined that the difference should be
Requisites of Admissibility interpreted in favor of the accused, that is, a deposition in
Illustration:
A.M. No. 19-08-15-SC Rules on Evidence
Expert Opinion is admissible only if: (c) The mental sanity of a person with whom he is
1. The subject under examination requires expertise; sufficiently acquainted.
2. The witness must possess the knowledge, skill or
experience; The witness may also testify on his impressions of the
3. Expert testimony must pertain to the matter in emotion, behavior, condition or appearance of a person.
issue (FRANCISCO, supra at 252). Ordinary Opinion Evidence
That which is given by the witness who is of ordinary
capacity and who has by opportunity acquired a particular
knowledge which is outside the limits of common
Probative Value of Expert Testimony observation and which may be of value in elucidating a
The court is not, however, bound by the opinion of an matter under consideration (5 HERRERA, supra at 823).
expert. Expert opinion evidence is to be considered or
weighed by the court like any other testimony, in the light
of its own general knowledge and experience upon the
subject of inquiry (RIANO, The Bar Lecture Series (2016), p.
332).
Example:
In examination of forged documents, judges must also
exercise independent judgment in determining the
authenticity or genuineness of the signature in question and
not merely on the testimony of the handwriting experts
(Mendez vs. CA, 672 SCRA 200, 209, June 13, 2012).
This rule has two exceptions, when the bad character of Character of witness
deceased may be offered in evidence: In criminal and civil cases, the bad moral character of a
witness may always be proved by either party (ROC, Rule
a. Where the issue of self-defense is raised and the 132, Sec. 11) but not evidence of his good moral character,
character of the slaying is doubtful, evidence of the unless such character has been impeached (ROC, Rule 130,
violent and dangerous character of the deceased is Sec. 54).
competent for the purpose of determining whether The character of a witness must be attacked or impeached
the deceased or the accused was the aggressor; and before the testimony sustaining his character may properly
b. Where the evidence tends to prove that the accused be admitted. Evidence in rebuttal to sustain a witness’
acted in self-defense, evidence of the violent and character may be properly admitted, when his character
dangerous character of the deceased, known to the has been assailed in order to discredit him, evidence
defendant, is admissible as tending to characterize sustaining his character may be admitted when the
the acts of the deceased, as bearing on the opposite party brings out matters which, if true, tend to
reasonableness of defendant’s apprehension of diminish his credibility by disparaging his character (98
danger at the time of the homicide (FRANCISCO, C.J.S., 464).
supra at 221-222). It is not necessary that there shall be a successful
impeachment of the witness. A mere attempt to impeach his
Character of the deceased in murder character, even though unsuccessful, warrants the
While the good or bad moral character of the victim may be introduction of testimony as to his good character
availed of as an aid to determine the probability or (FRANCISCO, supra at 229).
improbability of the commission of an offense, such is not Character evidence can be shown by proof of specific acts
necessary in a crime of murder where the killing is or conduct on the part of the person in question, whether
committed with treachery or premeditation (FRANCISCO, good or bad only in cases which character or a trait of
supra at 223). character of a person is an essential element of a charge,
IN CIVIL CASES claim or defense (ROC, Rule 130, Sec. 54).
Under Sec. 54, Rule 130 of the Rules of Court, evidence of
moral character of a party in a civil case is admissible only
when pertinent to the issue of character involved in the RULE 131: BURDEN OF PROOF,
case. BURDEN OF EVIDENCE AND
Character in issue is a technical expression, which does PRESUMPTIONS
not simply mean that the character may be affected by the
result, but that it is of particular importance in the suit itself, Sec 1. Burden of proof.
as the character of the plaintiff in an action for slander, or
that of a woman in an action for seduction (Porter v. Seiler, Burden of proof is the duty of a party to present evidence
23 Pa. 242, 430, 62 Am. D 341, cited in FRANCISCO, supra at on the facts in issue necessary to establish his claim or
224). defense by the amount of evidence required by law. (1a, 2a)
BURDEN OF PROOF vs. BURDEN OF EVIDENCE Example: In an information for illegal possession of firearms,
the information will contain an averment that the accused
Burden of Proof NEVER SHIFTS, while Burden of Evidence is does not have a license to possess the firearm[negative
TRANSFERRED from one litigant to another depending on the averment].
progress of trial.
* In this case, the negative averment is an essential part of
Illustration: Plaintiff files a complaint for recovery of a the commission of the crime, hence this must be proven.
defaulted loan. Defendant files an answer with a negative
defense, denying the existence of the loan. [ At the start, the Doctrine of equipoise or Equiponderance Rule
plaintiff has the burden of proof and also burden of
evidence, he should go to trial and present evidence to show Where the evidence on an issue of fact is in equipoise or
that he has a cause of action. If he has introduced enough there is doubt on which side the evidence preponderates, the
proof that he has a cause of action, the burden of evidence party having the burden of proof fails upon that issue. (Rivera
will now be shifted to the defendant. If defendant presents v. Court of Appeals, et al., G.R. No. 115625, prom. January 23,
enough evidence to prove his negative defense then the 1998)
burden of evidence is shifted again to the plaintiff on
Therefore, as neither party was able to make out a case,
rebuttal evidence.] (ESPEJO, Evidence Explained 2019 Ed. P.
540) neither side could establish its cause of action and prevail
with the evidence it had. They are thus no better off than
Can the accused in a criminal/civil case before before they proceeded to litigate, and, as a consequence
presenting his own evidence ascertain conditionally or thereof, the courts can only leave them as they are. (Rivera,
provisionally whether the evidence presented by the supra citing Municipality of Candijay, Bohol v. Court of
prosecution is enough to convict him? Appeals, 251 SCRA 530)
Pyramiding Presumption or Inference (a)Whenever a party has by his own declaration, act, or
omission: - intentionally and deliberately led another: o to
General Rule: A presumption cannot arise from the believe a particular thing true, and to to act upon such
strength of another presumption. It must be based on facts. belief, he cannot, in any litigation arising out of such
declaration, act or omission, be permitted to falsify it.
Exception: An inference may be based on a fact which itself
is based on an inference justifiable drawn from (b)The tenant is not permitted to deny the title of his
circumstantial evidence (6 HERRERA, supra at 40) landlord: - at the time of the commencement of the relation
of landlord and tenant between them. (3a)
CLASSIFICATIONS
Classes of Conclusive Presumption:
1. PRESUMPTION JURIS OR OF LAW- a deduction which
the law expressly directs to be made from particular facts 1. ESTOPPEL IN PAIS (Rule 131, Sec. 2(a)) – The
fact which the party in estoppel has
-Must be made whenever the facts appear which furnish represented to be true is conclusively
the basis for the inference presumed as against him to be true.
(o)That all the matters within an issue raised in a case: - SECTION 3 (b). That an unlawful act was done with an
were laid before the court and passed upon by it; and in like unlawful intent;
manner that all matters within an issue raised in a dispute
submitted for arbitration: - were laid before the arbitrators General rule is that, if it proved that the accused committed
and passed upon by them; the unlawful charged, it will be proved that the act was done
with a criminal intention, and it is for the accused to rebut
(p)That private transactions have been fair and regular;
this presumption. (FRANCISCO, supra at 63)
SECTION 3. Disputable Presumptions
The act in itself is evidence of the intent. (16 C.J., 81)
Sec 3(d). – That a person Section 3(d). - That a SECTION 3 (g) That a thing delivered by one to another
takes ordinary care of his or person takes ordinary care belonged to the latter;
her concerns of his concerns; Where proof is adduced showing affirmatively that the
thing delivered to another did not belong to the latter, an
implied contract known as “solution indebiti” is created.
(FRANCISCO, supra at 67)
In order to raise this presumption, four basic facts must be SECTION 3 (l) That a person acting in a public office was
proved: regularly appointed or elected to it;
a. That the crime was committed However, the presumption of a regular appointment does
not apply to a public officer seeking to recover salary
b. That it was committed recently attached to the office, or the benefits of a pension system.
(FRANCISCO, supra at 70)
c. That the stolen property was found in
SECTION 3 (m) That official duty has been regularly
possession of the defendant; and
performed;
d. That the defendant is unable to explain his The general presumption that an official act or duty has
possession satisfactorily (FRANCISCO, been regularly performed is subject to qualifications. It
supra at 69) generally is indulged only where the legality of an official
act is questioned collaterally, and not where it is directly
The application of disputable presumption found in Section attacked or where a question of jurisdiction is involved.
3 (j), Rule 131 of the Rules of Court, that a person found in (FRANCISCO, supra at 71)
possession of a thing taken in the doing of a recent wrongful
act is the taker and doer of the whole act, in this case the The real estate mortgage, it bears to stress, having been
alleged carnapping and the homicide/murder of its owner, notarized, is a public document, thus accorded the benefit
is limited to cases where such possession is either of certain presumptions. Being a public document, it enjoys
unexplained or that the proffered explanation is rendered the presumption of regularity. It is a prima facie evidence of
implausible in view of independent evidence inconsistent the truth of the facts stated therein and a conclusive
thereto. (People v. Urzais y Lanurias, G.R. No. 207662, 13 presumption of its existence and due execution. To
April 2016) overcome this presumption, there must be clear and
convincing evidence. Absent such evidence, as in this case,
SECTION 3 (k) That a person in possession of an order on the presumption must be upheld. (Philippine National Bank
himself for the payment of the money, or the delivery of v. Spouses Reblando, GR No. 194014, 12 September 2012)
anything, has paid the money or delivered the thing
accordingly; The presumption that an officer will discharge his duties
according to law does not apply where his duties are not
A.M. No. 19-08-15SC Rules on Evidence
specified by law and he is given unlimited discretion.
(FRANCISCO, supra at 71)
Expediency of judicial proceedings is the reason for the SECTION 3 (s) That a negotiable instrument was given or
presumption. For, if the parties would be required to show indorsed for a sufficient consideration;
the jurisdictional competence of the court, every case
Every negotiable instrument is deemed prima facie to have
before it would result in unnecessarily long and expensive
litigations. (FRANCISCO, supra at 72) been issued for a valuable consideration; and every person
whose signature appear thereon have become a party
SECTION 3 (o) That all the matters within an issue raised thereto for value. (Sec. 24, Negotiable Instruments Law)
in a case were laid before the court and passed upon by
it; and in like manner that all matters within an issue SECTION 3 (t) That an endorsement of negotiable
instrument was made before the instrument was
raised in a dispute submitted for arbitration were laid
overdue and at the place where the instrument is dated;
before the arbitrators and passed upon by them;
There is a presumption that: For one to be a holder in due course, one of the requisites is
that instrument must have been negotiated to him before it
a. The issues of fact were properly raised; was overdue. Hence, the importance of this presumption.
b. That all facts within the issues, not expressly (FRANCISCO, supra at 75)
found, and not inconsistent with the other
SECTION 3 (u) That a writing is truly dated;
finding, have been found in accordance with the
judgement; SECTION 3 (v) That a letter duly directed and mailed was
c. That all the issues in an action were actually received in the regular course of the mail;
heard and decided
d. That all the material issues were found in favor Requirements:
of the party who recovered the judgment;
e. That a material fact, put in issue by the pleadings, The facts to be proved in order to raise this presumption
has been found by the court in such a way as to are:
support the judgment;
f. That the court, where it makes a finding of facts, a. that the letter was properly addressed with
but does not include a finding upon one of the postage prepaid; and
issues raised, found upon that issue in such a B. that it was mailed. (Barcelon, Roxas Securities v.
way as to sustain the judgment; and CIR, GR No. 157064, 7 August 2006)
g. That all the facts necessary to the support of a While a mailed letter is deemed received by the addressee
judgment, and which are embodied within the in the ordinary course of mail, this is still merely a
issues, were proven, in the absence of any facts disputable presumption subject to controversion, and a
inconsistent with the relief granted or the direct denial of the receipt thereof shifts the burden upon
allegations upon which it is based. (FRANCISCO, the party favored by the presumption to prove that the
supra at 73) mailed letter was indeed received by the addressee. (Id.)
Presumption of Death
The absentee shall not be considered dead for the For Succession:
purpose of opening his succession till after an absence of
ten years. If he disappeared after the age of seventy-five a. If the person is absent for 7 years, he is
years, an absence of five years shall be sufficient in order presumed dead, except for purposes of
that his succession may be opened. succession
b. If the person is absent for 10 years, he is
A.M. No. 19-08-15-SC Rules on Evidence presumed dead for purposes of succession
1. But if his age was 75, and is
Sec 3(w). – The absentee Section 3(w). - The absent for 5 years, he is
shall not be considered absentee shall not be presumed dead for purposes of
dead for the purpose of considered dead for the succession
opening his or her purpose of opening his c. If the person is absent for 4 years, he shall
succession until after an succession till after an be presumed dead for all purposes,
absence of ten years. If he absence of ten years. If he including the division of the estate among
or she disappeared after disappeared after the age the heirs if the following circumstances are
the age of seventy-five of seventy-five years, an present:
years, an absence of five absence of five years shall 1. He was on board a vessel lost
years shall be sufficient in be sufficient in order that during a sea voyage, or an
order that his or her his succession may be aircraft which is missing, who
succession may be opened. opened has not been heard of for four
years since the loss of the vessel
or aircraft;
2. He was a member of the armed
The following shall be considered dead for all purposes forces who has taken part in
including the division of the estate among the heirs: armed hostilities, and has been
missing for four years;
SECTION 3 (w) (1) A person on board a vessel lost during 3. He has been in danger of death
a sea voyage, or an aircraft with is missing, who has not under other circumstances and
been heard of for four years since the loss of the vessel or whose existence has not been
aircraft; known for four years
For Remarriage
SECTION 3 (w) (2) A member of the armed forces who
has taken part in armed hostilities, and has been missing a. 4 years, if there has been a well founded
for four years; belief that the absent spouse is already
dead
SECTION 3 (w) (3) A person who has been in danger of
b. 2 years, if there is danger of death under
death under other circumstances and whose existence
the circumstances mentioned in Rule 131,
has not been known for four years;
Sec 3(w)(3)
SECTION 3 (w) (4) If a married person has been absent
for four consecutive years, the spouse present may
SECTION 3 (x) That acquiescence resulted from a belief
contract a subsequent marriage if he or she has well-
that the thing acquiesced in was conformable to the law
founded belief that the absent spouse is already death. In
or fact;
case of disappearance, where there is a danger of death
SECTION 3 (z) That persons acting as copartners have SECTION 3 (dd) (2) A child born after one hundred eighty
entered into a contract of co-partnership; days following the celebration of the subsequent
marriage is considered to have been conceived during
Where several persons carry on the same business together, such marriage, even though it be born within the three
they are properly presumed to be partners. (FRANCISCO, hundred days after the termination of the former
supra at 85) marriage.
SECTION 3 (aa) That a man and woman deporting The child is of the first marriage if the following requisites
themselves as husband and wife have entered into a are present:
lawful contract of marriage;
a. Mother remarried within 300 days from
Persons dwelling together in apparent matrimony are termination of 1st marriage;
presumed, in the absence of any counter presumption or b. Child born within the same 300 days;
evidence special to the case, to be in fact married. The c. Child born before 180 days from
reason is that such is the common order of society, and solemnization of the 2nd marriage
if the parties were not what they thus hold themselves The child is of the second marriage if the following
out as being, they would be living in the constant requisites are present:
violation of decency and law.
a. Mother remarried within 300 days from
(Son Cui v. Guepangco, G.R. No. L-6163, March 14, 1912) termination of 1st marriage;
b. Child born within the same 300 days;
SECTION 3 (bb) That property acquired by a man and a c. Child born after 180 days from
woman who are capacitated to marry each other and solemnization of the 2nd marriage
who live exclusively with each other as husband and wife
without the benefit of marriage or under void marriage, In case of prima facie evidence, the statements in the record
has been obtained by their joint efforts, work or industry. of birth may be rebutted by more preponderant evidence. It
is not conclusive evidence with respect to the truthfulness
The substantive provision is anchored in Article 147 of
of the statements made therein by the interested parties.
the Family Code.
(Concepcion v. Court of Appeals, GR No. 123450, 31 August
SECTION 3 (cc) That in cases of cohabitation by a man 2005)
and a woman who are not capacitated to marry each
other and who have acquire properly through their SECTION 3 (ee) That a thing once proved to exist
actual joint contribution of money, property or industry, continues as long as is usual with things of the nature;
such contributions and their corresponding shares
SECTION 3 (ff) That the law has been obeyed;
including joint deposits of money and evidences of credit
are equal. It will not be presumed in any case that the law has been
violated. Every alleged violation must be established by
The substantive provision is anchored in Article 148 of
competent proof. Thus, there is presumption that the
the Family Code.
requisites of the law were observed in the execution of a
SECTION 3 (dd) That if the marriage is terminated and will, where the subscribing witnesses are forgetful of any
the mother contracted another marriage within three essential fact or are dead. (FRANCISCO, supra at 95)
hundred days after such termination of the former
A witness has to be fully examined in one day only, and shall (1) To be protected from irrelevant, improper, or
be strictly adhered to subject to the courts’ discretion insulting questions, and from harsh or insulting
during trial on whether or not to extend the direct and/or demeanor;
cross-examination for justifiable reasons. On the last (2) Not to be detained longer than the interests of
hearing day alloted for each party, he is required to make justice require;
his formal offer of evidence after the presentation of his last (3) Not to be examined except only as to matters
witness and the opposing party is required to immediately pertinent to the issue;
interpose his objection thereto. Thereafter, the judge shall (4) Not to give an answer which will tend to subject
make the ruling on the offer of evidence in open court. him or her to a penalty for an offense unless
However, the judge has the discretion to allow the offer of otherwise provided by law; or
evidence in writing in conformity with Sec. 35, Rule 132 (5) Not to give an answer which will tend to
(AM No. 03-1-09-SC, Par. 5[j]). degrade his or her reputation, unless it to be
the very fact at issue or to a fact from which the
Most Important Witness Rule fact in issue would be presumed. But a witness
must answer to the fact of his or her previous
The trial judge shall determine the most important final conviction for an offense.
witnesses to be heard and limit the number thereof. The
facts to be proven by each witness and the approximate The old and new provisions are the same except for
number of hours per witness shall be fixed (AM No. 03-1-09- amendments to address gender sensitivity.
SC, Par. 5 [j]).
Obligation of a Witness
Conditional Examination of Witnesses in Criminal A witness must answer questions, although his or her
Cases answer may tend to establish a claim against him or her.
1. With respect to a prosecution witness, the Failure to comply is punishable by Contempt under Rule 71.
conditional examination takes place where the case
is pending (ROC, Rule 119, Sec. 15). Rights of a Witness
2. In case of defense witness, it can be before another 1. To be protected from irrelevant, improper, or
judge, a member of IBP when designated by the insulting questions, and from harsh or insulting
court, or before an inferior court if designated by a demeanor;
superior court (ROC, Rule 119, Secs. 12-13).
Whether or not a question is proper or improper depends
Sec. 2. The entire proceedings of a trial or hearing, on the purpose for which it was asked and the
including the questions propounded to a witness and circumstances at the time (FRANCISCO, supra at 511).
his or her answers thereto, the statements made by the
judge or any of the parties, counsel, or witnesses with Counsel must always come to the aid of his witness being
reference to the case, shall be recorded by means of subjected to intimidation, harassment, and embarrassment.
shorthand or stenotype or by other means of recording Such acts are objectionable and a timely objection should be
found suitable by the court. raised (RIANO, supra at 223).
The old and new provisions are the same except for 2. Not to be detained longer than the interests of justice
amendments to address gender sensitivity. require;
3. Not to be examined except only as to matters
Stenographic notes as recorded by the stenographer are pertinent to the issue;
presumed prima facie correct.
4. Not to give an answer which will tend to subject him
Note: If the transcript of stenographic notes appears to be or her to a penalty for an offense unless otherwise
erroneous, the remedy is for the interested party to file a provided by law; or
motion to correct transcript of stenographic notes.
Right against Self-incrimination of Witness
Right against Self-incrimination of the Witness-Accused a. the offense in which his testimony will be used is a
as Distinguished from that of an Ordinary Witness grave felony as defined under the Revised Penal
Code, or its equivalent under special laws;
b. his testimony can be substantially corroborated in
Accused Ordinary Witness its material points;
c. he or any member of his family within the second
He cannot be compelled to He may be compelled to civil degree of consanguinity or affinity is subjected
testify or produce evidence testify by subpoena, to threats to his life or bodily injury or there is a
in the criminal case in which having only the right to likelihood that he will be killed, forced, intimidated,
he is the accused. He cannot refuse to answer a harassed or corrupted to prevent him from
be compelled to do so even particular incriminating testifying, or to testify falsely, or evasively, because
by subpoena or other question at the time it is or on account of his testimony; and
process or order of the court. put to him. d. he is not a law enforcement officer, even if he would
He cannot be required either be testifying against the other law enforcement
for the prosecution, for co- officers. In such a case, only the immediate
accused, or even for himself. members of his family may avail themselves of the
protection provided for under this Act (RA, 6981,
He may totally refuse to take A witness who has been Sec. 3).
the stand. summoned to testify
cannot decline to appear, State Witness
nor can he decline to be
sworn as a witness, until Any person who has participated in the commission of a
a question calling for an crime and desires to be a witness for the State, can apply
incriminating answer is and, if qualified as determined in this Act and by the
asked. At that time only, Department, shall be admitted into the Program whenever
can the claim of privilege the following circumstances are present:
may be imposed. a. the offense in which his testimony will be used is a
(People v Ayson, G.R. No. 85215, July 7, 1989) grave felony as defined under the Revised Penal
Code or its equivalent under special laws;
5. Not to give an answer which will tend to degrade his b. there is absolute necessity for his testimony;
or her reputation, unless it to be the very fact at issue c. there is no other direct evidence available for the
or to a fact from which the fact in issue would be proper prosecution of the offense committed:
presumed. But a witness must answer to the fact of his d. his testimony can be substantially corroborated on
or her previous final conviction for an offense. its material points;
e. he does not appear to be most guilty; and
General Rule: A witness is not obliged to give an answer f. he has not at any time been convicted of any crime
which will tend to degrade his reputation involving moral turpitude (RA 6981, Sec.10).
Admission into the Program shall entitle such State Witness
Exceptions:
to immunity from criminal prosecution for the offense or
a. It is the very fact at issue;
offenses in which his testimony will be given or used and all
b. It is a fact from which the fact in issue would be
the rights and benefits provided under Section 8 of RA 6981.
presumed; or
c. It is the fact of his or her previous final conviction
for an offense.
(a) Direct examination by the proponent; This examination is now subject to the Judicial Affidavit
(b) Cross-examination by the opponent; Rule which took effect on January 1, 2013 (RIANO, supra p.
(c) Re-direct examination by the proponent; 227).
(d) Re-cross-examination by the opponent.
Sec. 6. Cross-examination; its purpose and extent. —
The old and new provisions are the same except for Upon the termination of the direct examination, the
amendments to address gender sensitivity. witness may be cross-examined by the adverse party
on any relevant matter with sufficient fullness and
The order provided is optional such that the parties are not freedom to test his or her accuracy and truthfulness
required to avail of all the examination provided under the and freedom from interest or bias, or the reverse, and
rules. to elicit all important facts bearing upon the issue.
(6a)
Sec. 5. Direct examination. — Direct examination is the
examination-in-chief of a witness by the party
The old rule provides that the cross-examination may be
presenting him or her on the facts relevant to the issue.
on any matters stated in the direct examination, or
(5a)
connected therewith, while the new rule provides that the
cross examination may be on any relevant matter,
The old and new provisions are the same except for meaning that it is allowed even if it is not necessarily
amendments to address gender sensitivity. stated in the direct examination, provided it is relevant.
However, even prior to the amendment, it was recognized
Direct Examination that even if the matter was not exactly stated in the direct
examination but is connected therewith, cross
The examination-in-chief of a witness by the party examination thereon may be allowed. The new rule seems
presenting him on the facts relevant to the issue. to just further clarify the old rule.
The old and new provisions are the same except for a. On cross-examination;
amendments to address gender sensitivity b. On preliminary matters;
c. When there is difficulty in getting direct
Purpose: To overcome the other party’s attempt to and intelligible answers from a witness
rehabilitate a witness or to rebut damaging evidence who is ignorant, a child of tender years, is
brought on the cross examination. of feeble mind, or a deaf-mute;
d. Of an unwilling or hostile witness; or
It is not a matter of right I re-cross examination for counsel e. Of a witness who is an adverse party or an
to touch on matters not brought to the re-direct officer, director, or managing agent of a
examination of the witness. public or private corporation, or of a
partnership or association which is an
Re-cross examination of the witness is limited to new adverse party.
matters brought out on the re-direct examination of the
witness and also on such other matters as may be allowed A misleading question is one which assumes
by the court in its discretion. as true a fact not yet testified to by the witness, or
contrary to that which he or she has previously stated.
Sec. 9. Recalling witness. — After the examination of a It is not allowed. (10a)
witness by both sides has been concluded, the witness
cannot be recalled without leave of the court. The The old and new provisions are the same except for
court will grant or withhold leave in its discretion, as amendments to address gender sensitivity.
the interests of justice may require. (9)
Leading Questions
The old and new provisions are the same except for
Questions which suggest to the witness the answer which
amendments to address gender sensitivity.
the examining party desires (FRANCISCO, supra at 525).
General Rule: After the examination of a witness by both
sides has been concluded, the witness cannot be recalled A leading question is one that is framed in such a way that
the question indicates to the witness the answer desired by
without leave of court.
the party asking the question. In other words of Sec. 10 of
Rule 132, it is a question “which suggests to the witness the
Reason: A witness cannot be detained longer than the
answer which the examining party desires (RIANO, supra at
interested of justice requires.
229).
Exception: Recall has been expressly reserved with the
The test whether a question is leading or not is the
approval of the court.
suggestiveness of its substance (FRANCISCO, Supra at 525).
The discretion to recall a witness is not properly invoked or
Exceptions:
exercisable by an applicant's mere general statement that
there is a need to recall a witness "in the interest of justice,"
1. On cross-examination;
or "in order to afford a party full opportunity to present his
2. On preliminary matters;
case," or that, as here, "there seems to be many points and
It is usual and proper for the court to permit leading Impeachment is basically a technique employed usually as
questions in conducting the examination of a witness who a part of the cross-examination to discredit a witness by
is immature; aged and infirm; in bad physical condition; attacking his credibility. Destroying credibility is vital
uneducated; ignorant of, or unaccustomed to, court because it is linked with a witness’ ability and willingness to
proceedings; inexperienced; unsophisticated; feeble- tell the truth (RIANO, supra at 230-231)
minded; of sluggish mental equipment; confused and
agitated; terrified; timid or embarrassed while on the stand; Ways of Impeaching Adverse Party’s Witness
lacking in comprehension of questions asked or slow to
understand; deaf and dumb; or unable to speak or 1. By contradictory evidence
understand the English language or only imperfectly 2. By evidence that the general reputation for
familiar therewith (People v. dela Cruz, G.R. No. 135022, July truth, honesty, or integrity of the witness is bad; or
11, 2002). 3. By prior inconsistent statements.
Leading Questions to a Child Witness
Contradictory Prior Inconsistent
As to child witnesses, Section 10, Rule 132 of the Rules of Evidence Statements
Court should be deemed modified by Sec. 20 of Rules on
Examination of a Child Witness. Under the said rule, the Statements made outside of
court may allow leading questions in all stages of Evidence that the the case by the witness which
examination of a child under the condition that the same witness’ testimony is unexplained is different from
will further the interest of justice. Under the Rules of Court, wrong or untrue; and cannot be reconciled with
a leading question may be asked of a child only if there is the witness’ present
difficulty of eliciting from said child a direct and intelligible Testimony of other testimony.
answer (RIANO, supra at 130). witness showing other
state of facts.
Misleading Question
Predicate need not be Predicate must first be laid.
One which assumes as true a fact not yet testified to by the laid.
witness, or contrary to that which he has previously stated.
It is not allowed in any type of examination (RIANO, supra (RIGUERA, supra at 719)
at 373).
Other Modes of Impeachment aside from Sec. 11
Sec. 11. Impeachment of adverse party's witness. — A
witness may be impeached by the party against whom 1. By involving him during cross examination in
he or she was called, by contradictory evidence, by contradiction;
evidence that his or her general reputation for truth, 2. By showing the impossibility or improbability
honesty, or integrity is bad, or by evidence that he or of his testimony;
she has made at other times statements inconsistent 3. By proving action or conduct of the witness
with his or her present testimony, but not by evidence inconsistent with his testimony;
2. a crime of moral turpitude, regardless of the penalty. 3. Witness is an unwilling or hostile witness.
Sec. 16. When witness may refer to memorandum. — A A witness may be allowed to refresh his memory respecting
witness may be allowed to refresh his or her memory a fact, by anything written or recorded by himself or under
respecting a fact by anything written or recorded by his direction at the time when the fact occurred, or
himself or herself or under his or her direction, at the immediately thereafter, or later so long as the fact was fresh
time when the fact occurred, or immediately in his memory and he knew that it was correctly recorded.
thereafter, or at any other time when the fact was fresh
in his or her memory and he or she knew that the same The evidence is still testimonial in character. The
was correctly written or recorded; but in such case, the memorandum will not be considered as documentary
writing or record must be produced and may be evidence.
inspected by the adverse party, who may, if he or she
chooses, cross-examine the witness upon it and may Past Recollection Revived
read it in evidence. A witness may also testify from
such a writing or record, though he or she retains no A witness may also testify from such writing or record,
recollection of the particular facts, if he or she is able though he retains no recollection of the particular facts, if
to swear that the writing or record correctly stated the he is able to swear that the writing or record correctly
transaction when made; but such evidence must be stated that transaction when made, but such evidence must
received with caution. (16a) be received with caution.
The old and new provisions are the same except for Since there is complete loss of recollection or memory on
amendment to address gender sensitivity and the deletion the part of the witness, then it is the memorandum itself
of the phrase “So, also”, which did not change the meaning that will serve as evidence. It will now be considered as
of the provision documentary evidence.
Permitting a witness to aid himself during his testimony The memorandum from which the witness may be
with written memoranda s a concession to the frailty of permitted to refresh his memory need not be an original
human memory (BAUTISTA, supra at 118). writing. It is sufficient if it is shown that the witness knows
the copy to be true one, and his memory refreshed thereby
Present Recollection Revived vs. Past Recollection enables him to testify from his own recollection of the facts,
Revived independent of his confidence in the accuracy of the copy.
Present Recollection Past Recollection The provision applies only when it is shown beforehand
Revived Revived that there is a need to refresh the memory of the witness (2
REGALADO, supra at 854-855).
Memory is obscure but There is no recollection
there is still memory. whatsoever. Also, where the witness has testified independently of or
after his testimony has been refreshed by a memorandum
Sec. 17. When part of transaction, writing or record AUTHENTICATION AND PROOF OF DOCUMENTS
given in evidence, the remainder admissible. — When
part of an act, declaration, conversation, writing or Authentication is the process of proving the due execution
record is given in evidence by one party, the whole of and genuineness of the document (FRANCISCO, p. 342)
the same subject may be inquired into by the other,
and when a detached act, declaration, conversation, Due Execution and Genuineness means nothing more
writing or record is given in evidence, any other act, than that the instrument is not spurious, counterfeit, or of
declaration, conversation, writing or record different import on its face from the one executed (RIANO,
necessary to its understanding may also be given in p. 346).
evidence. (17)
A document is defined as a deed, instrument or other duly
authorized paper by which something is proved, evidenced
Rule of Completeness or Rule of Indivisibility
or set forth (HERRERA, p. 256).
1. When part of an act, declaration, conversation, writing,
or record is given in evidence by one party, the whole of the
Section 19. Classes of Documents. — For the purpose of
same subject, at be inquired into by the other; and
their presentation in evidence, documents are either
public or private.
2. When a detached act, declaration, conversation, writing
or record is given in evidence, any other act, declaration, Public documents are:
conversation, writing or record necessary to its
understanding may also be given in evidence. a) The written official acts, or records of the
sovereign authority, official bodies and
The Rule Applies to Confessions tribunals, and public officers, whether of the
Philippines, or of a foreign country;
Confessions must be considered in their entirety including b) Documents acknowledged before a notary
inculpatory and exculpatory statements; however, portions public except last wills and testaments;
may be rejected if improbable, false or unworthy of credit c) Documents that are considered public
(6 HERRERA, supra at 253-254). documents under treaties and conventions
which are in force between the Philippines and
Sec. 18. Right to inspect writing shown to witness. — the country of source; and
Whenever a writing is shown to a witness, it may be d) Public records, kept in the Philippines, of
inspected by the adverse party. private documents required by law to be
entered therein.
When a part of a writing is introduced in evidence by one
litigant, his adversary is entitled to use other parts All other writings are private.
relevant to the issues in the case and has the right to
inspect the writing and to require its production in court. Old Rule New Rule
Documents that are An additional item
considered public was added under public
documents under document. It now includes:
treaties and conventions
which are in force Documents that are
between the Philippines considered public
and the country of documents
source are not expressly under treaties and
conventions
The nature of documents as either public or private When authentication of a private document is required
determines how the documents may be presented as
evidence in court. Public documents, as enumerated under Where the private document is offered in evidence as
Section 19,33 Rule 132 of the Rules of Court, are self- authentic, there is a need to prove its due execution and
authenticating and require no further authentication to be authenticity. If the document or writing is not offered as
presented as evidence in court. In contrast, a private authentic, it only needs to be identified as that which it is
document is any other writing, deed or instrument executed claimed to be (Franco v. People, G.R. No. 191185, February 1,
by a private person without the intervention of a notary or 2016).
other person legally authorized by which some disposition
or agreement is proved or set forth. Lacking the official or
The requirement of authentication of a private document is Conditions of Age: The time is to be reckoned from the date
excused only in four instances, specifically: of the execution to the day when the instrument is offered
a) when the document is an ancient one within the in evidence (FRANCISCO, p. 507).
context of Section 21, Rule 132 of the Rules of
Court;
b) when the genuineness and authenticity of an Section 22. How Genuineness of Handwriting Proved. —
actionable document have not been specifically The handwriting of a person may be proved by any
denied under oath by the adverse party; witness who believes it to be the handwriting of such
c) when the genuineness and authenticity of the person because he or she has seen the person write, or
document have been admitted; or has seen writing purporting to be his or hers upon
d) when the document is not being offered as genuine. which the witness has acted or been charged, and has
Self-authenticating Documents thus acquired knowledge of the handwriting of such
These are documents that are prima facie evidence of their person. Evidence respecting the handwriting may also
own authentication. Examples of these documents are: be given by a comparison, made by the witness or the
court, with writings admitted or treated as genuine by
1. Official records under seal, the party against whom the evidence is offered, or
2. Notarized Documents, and proved to be genuine to the satisfaction of the judge.
3. Certified copies of public records (Heis of Ochoa v.
G&S Transport Corp., G.R. No. 170071, July 16, 2012). Difference between the old Rule and new Rule: The
amendment is only to address gender sensitivity.
Section 21. When evidence of authenticity of private Under the foregoing rule, the genuineness of a handwriting
document not necessary. — Where a private document may be proved:
is more than thirty years old, is produced from the
custody in which it would naturally be found if genuine, 1) by any witness who believes it to be the
and is unblemished by any alterations or circumstances handwriting of such person because:
of suspicion, no other evidence of its authenticity need a) he has seen the person write; or
be given. b) he has seen writing purporting to be his upon
which the witness has acted or been charged;
Requirements for Ancient Document Rule:
2) by a comparison, made by the witness or the court,
1. The private document is more than 30 years old; with writings admitted or treated as genuine by the
2. It is produced from the Custody in which it would party, against whom the evidence is offered, or
naturally be found if genuine; proved to be genuine to the satisfaction of the judge
3. It is unblemished by any alterations of (Heirs Of Amado Celestial v. Heirs Of Editha G. Celestial,
circumstances of suspicion. G.R. No. 142691, August 5, 2003).
Conditions of Custody: This is determined by the Sec. 22 of Rule 132 does not require expert testimony to
circumstances of the case. While there may be one place prove the handwriting of a person (RIANO, p. 171).
absolutely and strictly proper, there are various places
which are reasonable and natural; in such cases, the former Courts are not bound to give probative or evidentiary value
is not required. (HERRERA, pp.274-275). to the opinion of handwritten experts, as resort to
handwriting experts is not mandatory (Domingo v.
Documents which affect real property must be recorded Domingo, G.R. No. 150897, April 11, 2005).
with the appropriate Registry of Deeds to bind third parties
(Id. at 275).
Section 23. Public documents as evidence. — Documents
The deed of assignment cannot be presumed genuine and consisting of entries in public records made in the
authentic under Sec. 22, Rule 132 of the Revised Rules of performance of a duty by a public officer are prima facie
Court. It was not produced from a custody in which it would evidence of the facts therein stated. All other public
naturally be found if genuine and it is blemished by documents are evidence, even against a third person, of
All other public documents: Section 24. Proof of official record. — The record of
public documents referred to in paragraph (a) of
1. Certification as to the income of the deceased Section 19, when admissible for any purpose, may be
executed by his employer (Heirs of Ochoa v. G&S evidenced by an official publication thereof or by a copy
Transport, G.R. No. 170071, July 16, 2012); attested by the officer having the legal custody of the
2. The chemistry report showing a positive result of record, or by his deputy, and accompanied, if the record
the paraffin test is a public document under Sec is not kept in the Philippines, with a certificate that
19(a) Rule 132 (Kummer v. People, G.R. No. 174461, such officer has the custody.
September 11, 2013);
3. National Statistics Office (NSO) Certification of If the office in which the record is kept is in a foreign
marriage, death and that private respondent has country, which is a contracting party to a treaty or
record of 2 marriages are public documents convention to which the Philippines is also a party, or
pursuant to Art. 410 of the Civil Code (Iwasawa v. considered a public document under such treaty or
Gangan, G.R. No. 204169, September 11, 2013); convention pursuant to paragraph (c) of Section 19
4. An improperly notarized deed of sale is NOT a hereof, the certificate or its equivalent shall be in the
public document (Dela Rama v. Papa, G.R. No. formed prescribed by such treaty or convention subject
142309, January 30, 2009); to reciprocity granted to public documents originating
5. Acknowledgement defective where the person from the Philippines
appeared before the notary public is not indicated
in the acknowledgement. Hence, the document is For documents originating from a foreign country
not considered a public document (Dycoco v. Orina, which is not a contracting party to a treaty or
G.R. No. 184843, July 30, 2009); and convention referred to in the next preceding sentence,
6. The fact that the Articles of Incorporation, the certificate may be made by a secretary of the
Memoranda of Agreement and Purchase embassy or legation, consul general, consul, vice
Agreements were collected by the PCGG in the consul, or consular agent or by any officer in the foreign
course of its investigation of the Marcoses’ alleged service of the Philippines stationed in the foreign
ill-gotten wealth do not make the same public
Section 27. Public record of a private document. – An Section 29. How judicial record impeached. – Any
authorized public record of a private document may be judicial record may be impeached by evidence of: (a)
proved by the original record, or by a copy thereof, want of jurisdiction in the court or judicial officer; (b)
attested by the legal custodian of the record, with an collusion between the parties, or (c) fraud in the party
appropriate certificate that such officer has the offering the record, in respect to the proceedings.
custody. In this case, fraud refers to extrinsic fraud, which is a ground
for annulment of judgment.
What is contextually considered as a public document is not
the private writing, but the public record thereof. Their Extrinsic fraud refers to any fraudulent act of the
authenticity and due execution as condition sine qua non for prevailing party in litigation which is committed outside of
their reception in evidence, with the evidentiary weight the trial of the case, whereby the defeated party has been
they might otherwise be entitled to, must first be proved prevented from exhibiting fully his case by fraud or
under Sec. 20, Rule 132 of the Rules of Court (Yuchengco v. deception practiced on him by his opponent (Gochan v.
Sadiganbayn, G.R. No. 149802, January 20, 2006). Mancao, G.R. No. 182314, November 13, 2013).
Section 28. Proof of lack of record. – A written statement Section 30. Proof of notarial documents. – Every
signed by an officer having the custody of an official instrument duly acknowledged or proved and certified
record or by his deputy that after diligent search no as provided by law, may be presented in evidence
record or entry of a specified tenor is found to exist in without further proof, the certificate of
the records of his office, accompanied by a certificate as acknowledgment being prima facie evidence of the
above provided, is admissible as evidence that the execution of the instrument or document involved.
records of his office contain no such record of entry. Section 31. Alteration in document, how to explain. —
The law presumes that a public officer will perform his The party producing a document as genuine which has
official duty by keeping public records safe in his office, and, been altered and appears to have been altered after its
therefore, if a paper which is required by law to be filed or execution, in a part material to the question in dispute,
recorded in a public office is not found there, the must account for the alteration. He may show that:
presumption arises that no such document has ever nee in (ACIM)
existence, and, until rebutted, this presumption stands as
proof of such nonexistence (FRANCISCO, supra at 346). (1) The Alteration made by another was without
his concurrence; or
How the absence of a record is proven (2) Was made with the Consent of the parties
Proof of lack of record of a document consists of a written affected by it; or
statement signed by the officer having custody of an official (3) Was otherwise properly or Innocent made; or
record or by his deputy. The written statement must (4) The alteration did not change the Meaning or
contain the following matters: language of the instrument.
1. There has been a diligent search of the record; and
2. That despite the diligent search, no record of entry If he fails to do that, the document shall not be
of a specified tenor is found to exist in the records admissible in evidence.
of the office.
Presumption as to the Author of Alteration
The certification to be issued by the Local Civil Registrar A party producing it or with his privity caused the alteration
must categorically state that the document does not exist in (or is the author of such). The burden is upon the author to
his office or the particular entry could not be found in the show that the same was not made by him or his privies.
register despite diligent search. Such certification shall be
sufficient proof of lack or absence of record as stated in The alteration is material if the terms or language of the
Section 28, Rule 132 of the Rules of Court (Sevilla v. altered instrument changed the rights, interests, or
Cardenas, G.R. No. 167684, July 31, 2006). obligations of the parties.
Certification by the Municipal Civil Registrar that “it has no - Effect: Contract is vitiated, even though the
record nor copy of any marriage license ever issued in favor alteration operated to the disadvantage of the
of the parties whose marriage was celebrated on June 1, wrongdoer or to the benefit of the other party.
If the law requires a document to be stamped, it cannot be Doctrine: Appellant's extrajudicial confession was taken
recorded or admitted in evidence in the absence of such. and transcribed entirely in the Cebuano dialect. Rule 132,
(6 HERRERA, p. 308-309) Section 33 of the Revised Rules on Evidence provides:
Section 33. Documentary evidence in an unofficial Sec. 33. Documentary evidence in an unofficial language.—
language. — Documents written in an unofficial
Documents written in an unofficial language shall not be admitted
language shall not be admitted as evidence, unless
as evidence, unless accompanied with a translation into English or
accompanied with a translation into English or Filipino.
Filipino. To avoid interruption of proceedings, parties or their
To avoid interruption of proceedings, parties or their
attorneys are directed to have such translation prepared before
attorneys are directed to have such translation
trial.
prepared before trial.
Official Languages of the Philippines under Art. XIV, Sec. The rule is that when there is presented in evidence an
7 of the 1987 Constitution: exhibit written in any language other than the official
language (Filipino or English), if there is an appeal, that
1. Filipino; exhibit should be translated by the official interpreter of the
2. English, if provided by the law. court, or a translation should be agreed upon by the parties,
If an affidavit is executed in an unofficial language, the court and both original and translation sent to this court.
has the discretion to deny or give the party the opportunity
to secure a translation of the affidavit. (People v. Tomaquin, In this case, there is no official translation of appellant's
G.R. 133188, July 23, 2004) extrajudicial confession in the Filipino or English language.
If the Court were to strictly follow the rule, then appellant's
Is a document written in Cebuan admissible in extrajudicial confession should not have been admitted by
evidence?
the trial court as evidence for the prosecution.
OFFER AND OBJECTION Refers either to the offer of Is the process by which a
the testimony of a witness proponent of an excluded
Section 34. Offer of evidence - The court shall consider prior to the latter’s evidence tenders the same
no evidence which has not been formally offered. The testimony or the offer of the
purpose for which the evidence is offered must be documentary and object 1. If what has been excluded
specified. evidence after a party has is testimonial evidence, the
presented his testimonial tender is made by stating
Procedure: evidence. for the record the name and
other personal
Loosely, it has been circumstances of the
FORMAL OFFER OF EVIDENCE referred to as formal offer proposed witness and the
of exhibits where object substance of his proposed
and documentary evidence testimony.
are offered.
Objections: Grounds 2. If the evidence excluded
General: Immaterial/Irrelevant is a documentary or of
things the offer of proof is
made by having the same
attached to or made a part
Sustained Overruled of the record
If testimony, the
If testimony, the
witness is (Riano 2016, Evidence, Bar Lecture Series, supra at 363-364)
witness is not
allowed to
allowed to Additional evidence after case is rested
answer.
answer. The Rules of Court does not prohibit a party from
If document/
If document/ requesting the court to allow it to present additional
object, it will be evidence even after it has rested its case (Republic v.
object, it will not
admitted Sandiganbayan[Fourth Division],662 SCRA 152, 184,
be admitted
December 13, 2011).
Section 35. When to make offer. - All evidence must be Stages in the presentation of documentary evidence:
offered orally.
Objection is a formal protest raised in court during a trial Objection must be specific enough to adequately inform the
to disallow a witness testimony or other evidence which court the rule on evidence or of substantive law that
would be in violation of the rules of evidence or other authorizes the exclusion of the evidence (RIANO, supra at
procedural law (ESPEJO, supra at 630). 348).
Classification of Objections The rule, however, does not impose a general or an absolute
ban on general objections. There is no need to specify the
1. General Objection / Broadside Objection – It ground, “if the ground for exclusion should have been
does not go beyond declaring the evidence as obvious to the judge or to counsel” (Floy v. Hibbard, 227
immaterial, incompetent, irrelevant or Iowa 149).
inadmissible. It does not specify the grounds for
objection. There are cases where the incompetency of the evidence is
2. Specific Objection – It states the ground upon so palpable that a mere general objection is deemed
which the objection is made. It states why or sufficient, and where the portion of the evidence objection
how the evidence is irrelevant or incompetent. is deemed sufficient, and where the portion of the evidence
3. Formal Objection – is one directed against the objected is clearly pointed out and its illegality is apparent
alleged defect in the formulation of the question on its face, then the objection must be allowed. (RIANO,
(e.g., ambiguous question). supra at 349).
4. Substantive Objection – objections made and
directed against the very nature of the evidence, Objections must be Timely Made
i.e., it is inadmissible either because it is
Circumstantial evidence is sufficient for conviction if: a. Circumstantial evidence should be acted upon with
(a) There is more than one circumstance; caution
(b) The facts from which the inferences are derived are b. All the essential facts must be consistent with the
proven; hypothesis of guilt
(c) The combination of all the circumstances is such as c. The facts must exclude every other theory but that
to produce a conviction beyond reasonable doubt. of the guilt of the accused
d. The peculiarity of circumstantial evidence is that
Inferences cannot be based on other inferences. the series of events pointing to the commission of a
felony is appreciated not singly but collectively
Definition (People v. Galvez, G.R. No. 157221, March 30, 2007).
Circumstantial evidence may be characterized as that
evidence that proves a fact or series of facts from which the Motive and Circumstantial Evidence
facts in issue may be established by inference. Motive is the move power which impels one to action for a
definite result. It is circumstantial because it does not
Circumstantial evidence consists of proof of collateral facts directly prove guilt. The fact that the accused had motive to
and circumstances from which the existence of the main kill the victim does not necessarily mean he did the killing.
fact may be inferred according to reason and common
experience Motive is generally held to be immaterial because it is not
(People v. Broniola, G.R. No. 211027, June 29, 2015). element of the crime (People v. Babor, G.R. No. 215319,
October 21, 2015).
Review
Rule 128, Section 4. Relevancy; collateral matters – Evidence When Evidence of Motive is Relevant or Important
must have such a relation to the fact in issue as to induce
belief as to its existence or non-existence. Evidence on Generally, motive becomes important when the evidence on
collateral matters shall not be allowed, except when it tends commission of the crime is purely circumstantial or
inconclusive.
With the incorporation of the foregoing jurisprudential What Must be Proven by Clear and Convincing Evidence
pronouncement, the revised rule also provides for the
factors for the court to consider in determining the weight Survey of Cases
to be given to such opinion. The person claiming moral damages must prove the
existence of bad faith by clear and convincing evidence for
Due to its doubtful nature, alibi must be supported by clear It has to be by proof beyond reasonable doubt.
and convincing evidence (People v. Lara, G.R. No. 199877,
August 13, 2012). SECTION 7. Power of the court to stop further evidence. –
The court may stop the introduction of further testimony
A defense of denial which is unsupported and upon any particular point when the evidence upon it is
unsubstantiated by clear and convincing evidence becomes already so full that more witnesses to the same point cannot
negative and self-serving, deserving no weight in law, and be reasonably expected to be additionally persuasive. This
cannot be given greater evidentiary value over convincing, power shall be exercised with caution.
straightforward and probable testimony on affirmative
matters (People v. Alberto, G.R. No. 179717, February 5, The old and new provisions are the same except that
2010). “should be” was changed to “shall be” and the section
number was changed from 6 to 7.
Police officers are presumed to have acted regularly in the
performance of their official functions in the absence of Requisites:
clear and convincing proof to the contrary or proof that they 1. Court stops the introduction of further
were moved by ill will (People v. Alberto, G.R. No. 179717, testimony;
February 5, 2010).
2. Evidence upon it is already full;
The general rule is that he who alleges fraud or mistake in a
transaction must substantiate his allegation as the 3. Witnesses cannot be reasonably expected to be
presumption is that a person takes ordinary care for his additionally persuasive;
concerns and that private dealings have been entered into
fairly and regularly. One who alleges defect or lack of valid 4. Such power of court is exercised with caution.
consent to a contract by reason of fraud or undue influence The court has the power to stop the introduction of
must establish by full, clear and convincing evidence such testimony which will merely be cumulative.
specific act that vitiated a party’s consent, otherwise, the (Guinea et. al v. Vda. De. Ramonal et. al, G.R. No. L-
latter’s presumed consent to the contract prevails (Fontana 38659, February 20, 1975)
Resort v. Spouses Tan, G.R. No. 154670, January 30, 2012).
The power granted by the above proviso has the clear
The defense of frame-up must be supported by clear and caveat that this power should be exercised with caution,
convincing evidence because it is in the same category as more so in criminal cases where proof beyond reasonable
alibi (People v. Dela Cruz, G.R. No. 109119, August 16, 1994). doubt is required for the conviction of the accused (Go v.
Looyuko, G.R. No. 147923, October 26, 2007).
A party has the right to seek the inhibition or
disqualification of a judge who does not appear to be wholly SECTION 8. Evidence on motion. – When a motion is based
free, disinterested, impartial and independent in handling on facts not appearing of the record, the court may hear the
the case. …to disqualify a judge on the ground of bias and matter on affidavits or depositions presented by the
prejudice the movant must prove the same by clear and respective parties, but the court may direct that the matter
convincing evidence (Webb v. People, G.R. No. 127262, July be heard wholly or partly on oral testimony or depositions.
24, 1997).
Only the section number was changed in this provision.
Examples:
1. Motion for Bail (Under Criminal Procedure, the evidence
taken up during the hearing of the motion will form part
automatically of the records of the case);
While the court may hear and rule upon motions solely on
the basis of affidavits or counter-affidavits, if the affidavits
contradict each other on matters of fact, the court can have
no basis to make its findings of fact and the prudent course
is to subject the affiants to cross-examination so that the
court can decide whom to believe (Sapida v. De Villanueva,
G.R. No. L-27673, November 24, 1972).
Notwithstanding the foregoing, copies or duplicates shall Section 3. Proof of electronically notarized document.—
not be admissible to the same extent as the original if: A document electronically notarized in accordance with the
(a) a genuine question is raised as to the authenticity of the rules promulgated by the Supreme Court shall be
original; or considered as a public document and proved as a notarial
(b) in the circumstances it would be unjust or inequitable document under the Rules of Court.
to admit the copy in lieu of the original.
Such copies or duplicates shall be regarded as the Electronic signature refers to any distinctive mark,
equivalent of the original. (REE, Rule 4, Sec. 2) characteristic and/or sound in electronic form representing
the identity of a person and attached to/or logically
Note: Notwithstanding the foregoing, copies or duplicates associated with the electronic data message or electronic
shall not be admissible to the same extent as the original if: document or any methodology or procedures employed or
1. A genuine question is raised as to the authenticity of the adopted by a person and executed or adopted by such
original; or person with an intention of authenticating or approving an
2. In the circumstances it would be unjust or inequitable electronic data message or electronic document (Rule 2,
to admit the copy in lieu of the original (Rule 4, Sec. 2). Section 1[j]).
Rule 12
EFFECTIVITY
e. The existence of other factors, if any, which the court may Section 6. Post-conviction DNA Testing
consider as potentially affecting the accuracy of integrity of
the DNA testing If a person has already been convicted under final and
executory judgment, may he still avail of DNA Testing?
Legal Interest YES. “Post-conviction DNA testing” may be available,
Legal interest would mean material interest or an interest without need of prior court order, to the prosecution or any
in issue to be affected by the decree or judgment of the case, person convicted by final and executory judgment provided
as distinguished from a mere curiosity. In such case, one that:
having no material interest to protect cannot invoke the 1. A biological sample exists
jurisdiction of the court to invoke the jurisdiction of the 2. Such sample is relevant to the case, and
court to cause the issuance of a DNA testing order (Sps. Oco 3. The testing would probably result in the reversal or
v. Limbaring, G.R. No. 161298, January 31, 2006). modification of the judgment of conviction (Sec. 6).
Note: This Rule shall not preclude a DNA testing, without Note: The provisions of the Rules of Court concerning the
need of a prior court order, at the behest of any party, appreciation of evidence shall apply suppletorily.
including law enforcement agencies, before a suit or
proceeding is commenced.
Section 7. Assessment of Probative Value of DNA
Is a court order always required before undertaking a Evidence
DNA testing?
No. RDE allows a testing without a prior order if done before Guidelines in Assessing the Probative Value of DNA:
a suit or proceeding is commenced at the request of any (CH-CA-CQ)
party, including law enforcement agencies. This also means
that a litigation need not exist prior to DNA testing. Thus, a 1. How the samples are collected;
court order shall be required only if there is a pending 2. How they were handled;
litigation, but not before the litigation (RIANO, supra at 123). 3. The possibility of contamination of the
samples;
4. The procedure followed in analyzing the
Section 5. DNA Testing Order samples;
An order granting the DNA testing shall be immediately 5. Whether the proper standards and procedure
executory and shall not be appealable. Any petition for were followed in conducting the tests; and
certiorari initiated therefrom shall not, in any way, stay the 6. The qualification of the analyst who conducted
implementation thereof, unless a higher court issues an the test (People v. Vallejo, G.R. No. 144656, May
injunctive order. 9, 2002)
DNA Testing order is merely interlocutory, for this 1. The falsifiability of the principles or methods
reason, the remedy of appeal is not allowed against it. The used, that is, whether the theory or technique
remedy provided is a petition for certiorari under Rule 65 can be and has been tested;
of the Rules of Court but even the availment of this remedy 2. The subjection to peer review and publication
of the principles or methods;
Thus, in a case, the SC held that a 99.9% or higher Section 11. Confidentiality
probability of paternity does not immediately lead to the DNA profiles and all results or other information obtained
DNA test result being admitted as conclusive evidence. It from DNA testing shall be confidential.
remains to be a disputable presumption of paternity subject
to the standards set in People v. Vallejo (Herrera v. Alba, G.R. Except upon order of the court, a DNA profile and all results
No. 148220, June 15, 2005). or other information obtained from DNA testing shall only
be released to any of the following, under such terms and
Possible Results of DNA Testing: conditions as may be set forth by the court:
1. Person from whom the sample was taken;
1. Rule of Exclusion - The samples are different 2. Lawyers representing parties in the case or
and therefore must have originated from action where the DNA evidence is offered and
different sources (exclusion). This conclusion presented or sought to be offered and
is absolute and requires no further analysis or presented;
discussion; 3. Lawyers of private complainants in a criminal
2. Rule of Inclusion - The samples are similar, action;
and could have originated from the same 4. Duly authorized law enforcement agencies;
source (inclusion). In such a case, the samples and
are found to be similar, the analyst proceeds to 5. Other persons as determined by the court.
determine the statistical significance of the
similarity; or Liability for unlawful disclosure or utilization of any
3. Inconclusive - It is not possible to be sure, DNA profile
based on the results of the test, whether the Whoever discloses, utilizes or publishes in any form any
samples have similar DNA types information concerning a DNA profile without the proper
(inconclusive). This might occur for a variety of court order shall be liable for indirect contempt of the court
reasons including degradation, contamination, wherein such DNA evidence was offered, presented or
or failure of some aspect of the protocol. sought to be offered and presented.
Various parts of the analysis might then be
repeated with the same or a different sample, Written verified request
to obtain a more conclusive result (Keith Where the person from whom the biological sample was
Inman & Norah Rudin, An Introduction to taken files a written verified request to the court that
Who shall conduct the examination? The party who presents a child witness or the guardian ad
Examination of a child as to his competence shall be litem of such child witness may however, move the court to
conducted only by the judge. Counsel for the parties, allow him to testify in the manner provided in this Rule.
however, can submit questions to the judge that he may, in (Sec. 8)
his discretion, ask the child. (Sec. 6 (d))
Mode of Questioning
The questions asked at the competency examination shall: The court shall exercise control over the questioning of
1. Be appropriate to the age and developmental level children so as to:
of the child; 1. facilitate the ascertainment of the truth,
2. Not be related to the issues at the trial 2. ensure that questions are stated in a form
3. Focus on the ability of the child to: appropriate to the developmental level of the child,
a. Remember; 3. protect children from harassment or undue
b. Communicate; embarrassment, and
c. Distinguish between truth and falsehood; 4. avoid waste of time. (Sec. 19)
and
d. Appreciate the duty to testify truthfully. The court may allow the child witness to testify in a
narrative form.
Persons allowed at competency examination
Only the following are allowed to attend a competency Leading questions may be allowed in all stages of
examination: examination of a child if the same will further the interests
1. The judge and necessary court personnel; of justice. (Sec. 20)
The rights of the accused during trial, especially the right When the child witness is unavailable, his hearsay
to counsel and to confront and cross-examine the child, testimony shall be admitted only if corroborated by other
shall not be violated during the deposition. (Sec 27(d)) admissible evidence. (Sec 28(d))
The videotaped deposition shall be preserved, The court shall consider the time, content and
stenographically recorded, and be made a part of the circumstances thereof which provide sufficient indicia of
record. The videotaped deposition and stenographic notes reliability, considering the following factors:
shall be subject to a protective order as provided in 1. Whether there is a motive to lie;
section 31(b). (Sec 27(f)(h)) 2. The general character of the declarant child;
3. Whether more than one person heard the
Note: Any videotape or audiotape of a child produced statement;
under the provisions of this Rule or otherwise made part of 4. Whether the statement was spontaneous;
the court record shall be destroyed after five (5) years have 5. The timing of the statement and the relationship
elapsed from the date of entry of judgment. (Sec 31(f)) between the declarant child and witness;
6. Cross-examination could not show the lack of
Additional videotaped deposition knowledge of the declarant child;
After the original videotaping but before or during trial, 7. The possibility of faulty recollection of the
any party may file any motion for additional videotaping on declarant child is remote; and
the ground of newly discovered evidence. The court may 8. The circumstances surrounding the statement
order an additional videotaped deposition to receive the are such that there is no reason to suppose the
newly discovered evidence. (Sec 27(j))
Within thirty (30) days from receipt, all copies of the tape Note: "Records" within the meaning of the sub-section shall
and any transcripts thereof shall be returned to the clerk of include those which may be in the files of the National
court for safekeeping unless the period is extended by the Bureau of Investigation and with any police department or
court on motion of a party. government agency which may have been involved in the
case. (Art. 200, P.D. No. 603).
Additional protective orders
The court may, motu proprio or on motion of any party, the
child, his parents, legal guardian, or the guardian ad litem,
issue additional orders to protect the privacy of the child.
(Sec 31(c))
Note: The Judicial Affidavit (JA) is not a pleading nor is it a 2. The RTC and Shari’a District Courts;
motion
3. The Sandiganbayan, the CTA, the CA and the Shari’a
How will JAR decongest court dockets? Appellate Courts;
According to a study recognized by the Supreme Court, 4. The investigating officers and bodies authorized by the
direct testimonies take a large chunk of court proceedings. Supreme Court to receive evidence, including the
By replacing direct testimonies with judicial affidavits will Integrated Bar of the Philippines; and
reduce about two-thirds of the time spent in adjudicating
cases. This speeds up the disposition of cases in court. 5. The special courts and quasi-judicial bodies, whose
rules of procedure are subject to disapproval of the
What is wrong with direct testimonies? Supreme Court insofar as their existing rules of
procedure contravene the provisions of the JAR
Justice Abad says that the direct testimony is the bottleneck
(chokepoint) of the system. Court can only hear one witness
Applicability to Criminal Cases
at a time (piece meal trial). A witness’s presentation of his
testimony takes a while. Witnesses often state their 1. Those which the maximum penalty imposable does
testimonies in vernacular which means the same has to be not exceed 6 years;
translated to English as required by existing rules (double
testimony). Add to this the objections, especially the 2. To their civil aspect, regardless of penalty imposed;
unnecessary ones, being raised by the adverse party during and
direct testimony which can be dispensed with the
implementation of JAR. 3. In any case where the accused agrees to use of the
rule.
Effectivity Date: January 01, 2013
Section 2. Submission of Judicial Affidavits and Exhibits
Purpose: in lieu of Direct Testimonies.
To avoid case congestion and delays that plague most courts Period to File:
in cities, given the huge volume of cases filed each year and
the slow and cumbersome adversanal system that the Not later than five (5) days before pre-trial, preliminary
judiciary has in place. conference, or scheduled hearing with respect to motions
and incidents.
Functions of JA:
What to file?
1. Takes the place of direct testimonies; and
This is without prejudice to the introduction of secondary 3. Questions and answers that Identify the attached
evidence in place of the original when allowed by existing documentary and object evidence and establish
rules. their authenticity in accordance with the Rules of
Court.
Modes of filing and service to other party:
Note: The JAR does not mention of “service by registered mail 1. That he Faithfully recorded and caused the recording of
and that “Licensed courier service” is not well defined under the questions he asked and the corresponding answers
the JAR. that the witness gave;
Section 3. Contents of judicial affidavit.
2. Neither he nor any person then present Coached the
Language used: witness regarding his answers; and
A judicial affidavit shall be prepared/written in the 3. A Jurat with signature of the notary public who
language known to the witness. If not in English or Filipino, administers the oath or an officer who is authotized by
a translation must be attached. law to administer the same.
Contents of a judicial affidavit: Note: A false attestation will subject the erring lawyer to
disciplinary actions or even disbarment
a. IN GENERAL: (PI-PA-SJA)
Section 5. Subpoena.
1. Personal circumstance of the witness;
If the government employee or official, or the requested
2. Identity of the lawyer who conducted or witness, who is neither the witness of the adverse party nor
supervised the examination of the witness a hostile witness, unjustifiably declines to execute a judicial
including the lawyer’s address; affidavit or refuses without just cause to make the relevant
books, documents, or other things under his control
3. The Place where the examination was held; available for copying, authentication, and eventual
Exception: No judicial affidavit may be required against a Remedy of a party whose judicial affidavit or a portion
hostile witness who refuses to execute a judicial affidavit for thereof or an eidence introduced therein is excluded
the other party. This is because a judicial affidavit is not
required in this case since they can be queried with leading Tender of excluded evidence under Section 40 of Rule 132
questions as in cross. In this instance, follow the rules of of the Rules of Court which provides:
discovery on taking witness’s deposition, but this is ex parte
“Tender of excluded evidence. — If documents or things
Section 6. Offer of and objections to testimony in judicial offered in evidence are excluded by the court, the offeror may
affidavit have the same attached to or made part of the record. If the
evidence excluded is oral, the offeror may state for the record
The party presenting the judicial affidavit of his witness in the name and other personal circumstances of the witness
place of direct testimony shall state the purpose of such and the substance of the proposed testimony” (Sec. 40, Rule
testimony at the start of the presentation of the witness. 132, ROC)
The adverse party may move to disqualify the witness or to Section 7. Examination of the witness on his judicial
strike out his affidavit or any of the answers found in it on affidavit.
ground of inadmissibility.
The adverse party shall have the right to cross-examine the
The court shall promptly rule on the motion and, if granted, witness on his judicial affidavit and on the exhibits attached
shall cause the marking of any excluded answer by placing to the same.
it in brackets under the initials of an authorized court
personnel, without prejudice to a tender of excluded The party who presents the witness may also examine him
evidence under Section 40 of Rule 132 of the Rules of Court as on re-direct.
Remedies if inadmissible evidence is introduced In every case, the court shall take active part in examining
through the judicial affidavit by one party. (DSP) the witness to determine his credibility as well as the truth
of his testimony and to elicit the answers that it needs for
The other party may: resolving the issues.
1. Move to Disqualify the witness; Section 8. Oral offer of and objections to exhibits.
2. Move to Strike out the said witness’s judicial affidavit; Upon the termination of the testimony of his last witness, a
or party shall immediately make an oral offer of evidence of his
documentary or object exhibits, piece by piece, in their
Since the documentary or object exhibits form part of the 1. Where the maximum of the imposable penalty does not
judicial affidavits that describe and authenticate them, it is exceed six years;
sufficient that such exhibits are simply cited by their
markings during the offers, the objections, and the rulings, 2. Where the accused agrees to the use of judicial
dispensing with the description of each exhibit. affidavits, irrespective of the penalty involved; or
Offer of testimony by judicial affidavit 3. With respect to the civil aspect of the actions, whatever
the penalties involved are.
Rule: The counsel shall state the purpose of the judicial
affidavit at the start of the presentation of the witness. It The prosecution shall submit the judicial affidavits of its
does not say that such purpose must be stated in the judicial witnesses not later than five (5) days before the pre-trial,
affidavit itself. serving copies if the same upon the accused.
Note: In actual practice and for convenience, the purpose The complainant or public prosecutor shall attach to the
of the judicial affidavit as well as the purpose/s of the affidavits such documentary or object evidence as he may
evidence introduced therein are stated in the judicial affidavit have, marking them as Exhibits A, B, C, and so on. No further
itself. judicial affidavit, documentary, or object evidence shall be
admitted at the trial.
Offer of Evidence (Documentary and Object)
Note: Once the judicial affidavits are received, no further
After presenting the last witness (on either side), counsel judicial affidavits or evidence (object or documentary) may
may ORALLY offer evidence. However, judges, on be admitted at the trial.
discretion, may still allow a written offer of evidence.
If the accused desires to be heard on his defense after
After terminating the testimony of his last witness, counsel receipt of the judicial affidavits of the prosecution, he shall
makes the oral offer of evidence through the following: have the option to submit his judicial affidavit as well as
those of his witnesses to the court within ten (10) days
a. Make an oral offer of evidence; from receipt of such affidavits and serve a copy of each on
the public and private prosecutor, including his
b. Piece by piece, in their chronological order stating the documentary and object evidence previously marked as
purpose/s for which he offers the particular exhibit; Exhibits 1, 2, 3, and so on.
c. Since the documentary or object exhibits form part of Note: These affidavits shall serve as direct testimonies of the
the judicial affidavits that describes and authenticates accused and his witnesses when they appear before the court
them, it is sufficient that such exhibits are simply cited to testify.
by their markings during the offer – dispensing with the
description of each exhibit. The filling and service of judicial affidavit in all cases except
criminal cases is more or less simultaneous considering the
Objections to Evidence (Documentary and Object) period of filing and service.
After each piece of exhibit is offered, the adverse party shall In criminal cases, the prosecution has to file and serve its
state the legal ground for his objection/s to it, if any. The judicial affidavit/s before the accused does, if the latter
piece of evidence in point may be referred to by its choses to.
markings.
Failure of counsel to It is deemed as the waiver If the case has already undergone pre-trial, the Judicial
appear without valid of his client's right to Affidavit Rule is still applicable to the remaining
cause despite notice confront by cross- testimonies. Such remaining testimonies shall be heard via
examination the judicial affidavits. (Ng Meng Tam v, Chinabank, GR No.
witnesses there present. 214054, August 05, 2015)
SECTION 8. Rights and Benefits. – The witness shall have When the circumstances warrant, the Witness shall be
the following rights and benefits: (SAWA-MBE) entitled to relocation and/or change of personal identity at
a. To have a Secure housing facility until he has the expense of the Program. This right may be extended to
testified or until the threat, intimidation or
The Witness relocated pursuant to this Act shall be entitled b) there is Absolute necessity for his testimony;
to a financial assistance from the Program for his support
and that of his family in such amount and for such duration c) there is No other direct evidence available for the
as the Department shall determine. (R.A. 6891, Sec. 8 (b)) proper prosecution of the offense committed;
A witness who is relocated to the Program's temporary d) his testimony can be Substantially corroborated
shelter or safehouse shall be deemed to be under witness on its material points;
duty (IRR of R.A. 6891, Art. I, Sec.7)
e) he does not appear to be most Guilty; and
Any Witness who failed to report for work because of
witness duty shall be paid his equivalent salaries or wages f) he has not at any time been convicted of any
corresponding to the number of days of absence occasioned crime involving Moral turpitude.
by the Program. Any fraction of a day shall constitute a full
day salary or wage. This provision shall be applicable to An accused discharged from an information or criminal
both government and private employees. (R.A. 6891, Sec. 8 complaint by the court in order that he may be a State
(c)) Witness pursuant to Section 9 and 10 of Rule 119 of the
Revised Rules of Court may upon his petition be admitted to
Witnesses admitted to the Program may be entitled to the Program if he complies with the other requirements of
the following assistance: this Act. (R.A. 6891, Sec. 10, par. 2)
1. Financial Assistance;
2. Dependent’s Allowance; SECTION 11. Sworn Statement. — Before any person is
3. Medical Assistance; admitted into the Program, he shall execute a sworn
4. Security Protection; statement describing in detail the manner in which the
5. Livelihood Assistance; offense was committed and his participation therein…If the
6. Termination Assistance; Department is satisfied that the requirements of this Act
7. Education Assistance; and its implementing rules are complied with, it may admit
8. Burial Assistance; and such person into the Program and issue the corresponding
9. Change of Identity. (IRR of R.A. 6891, Art. VII, certification. If his application for admission is denied, said
Sec.1-9) sworn statement and any other testimony given in support
of said application shall not be admissible in evidence,
A witness may waive, in writing, any of his benefits under except for impeachment purposes.
R.A. No. 6981. A waiver absolves the Program completely of
whatever responsibility it may have over the witness' safety Witnesses are deemed admitted to the Program upon the
and security. (IRR of R.A. 6891, Art. VIII) issuance of a Certificate of Admission and Coverage by the
Implementor (IRR of R.A. 6891, Art. IV)
SECTION 9. Speedy Hearing or Trial. — In any case where
a Witness admitted into the Program shall testify, the Sworn Statement
judicial or quasi-judicial body, or investigating authority It is a written statement under oath executed by an
shall assure a speedy hearing or trial and shall endeavor to individual seeking admission into the Program, disclosing
finish said proceeding within three (3) months from the in detail his personal knowledge and/or information about
filing of the case. the commission of a grave felony (IRR of R.A. 6891, Art. I, Sec.
5).
SECTION 10. State Witness. — Any person who has
participated in the commission of a crime and desires to be SECTION 12. Effect of Admission of a State Witness into
a witness for the State, can apply and, if qualified as the Program. — … Admission into the Program shall entitle
determined in this Act and by the Department, shall be such State Witness to immunity from criminal prosecution
admitted into the Program whenever the following for the offense or offenses in which his testimony will be
circumstances are present: (GANS-GM) given or used and all the rights and benefits provided under
Section 8 hereof.
Order requiring witness to testify, give evidence or produce (b) reporting to a law enforcement officer or judge
the books, documents, records, and writings shall issue: the commission or possible commission of an
(1) in case of refusal of said witness to testify or give offense, or a violation of conditions or probation,
evidence or produce books, documents, records, or parole, or release pending judicial proceedings;
writings, on the ground of the right against self-
incrimination, and (c) seeking the arrest of another person in
(2) the state prosecutor or investigator believes that connection with the offense;
such evidence is absolutely necessary for a
successful prosecution of the offense or offenses (d) causing a criminal prosecution, or a proceeding
charged or under investigation for the revocation of a parole or probation; or