THE PEOPLE OF THE PHILIPPINES v.

HERMOGENES and EDWIN FLORA

G.R. No. 125909
June 23, 2000
QUISUMBING, J.
FACTS:
Accused-appellants sought the reversal of a decision from the Regional Trial Court,
Branch 26, Santa Cruz, Laguna, finding them guilty of double murder and attempted murder. The
charges stemmed from an incident during a dance party where appellants Hermogenes Flora and
Edwin Flora allegedly, with intent to kill, shot and killed Emerita Roma and Ireneo Gallarte and
attempted to murder Flor Espinas.

ISSUE:
Whether the trial court erred in convicting the accused-appellants despite the alleged
failure of the prosecution to morally ascertain their identities and guilt for the crimes charged.

HELD:
The Supreme Court affirmed the conviction of Hermogenes Flora for double murder and
attempted murder, modifying Edwin Flora's liability. The court found that the defense of alibi
was not established and that the eyewitnesses' testimonies were credible. Hermogenes Flora was
found guilty beyond reasonable doubt of double murder for the deaths of Emerita Roma and
Ireneo Gallarte, and guilty of attempted murder of Flor Espinas. Edwin Flora was held liable
only for the murder of Ireneo Gallarte, as there was no evidence of conspiracy to kill Emerita
Roma and harm Flor Espinas against him. The court modified the penalties and indemnities
accordingly.