Baguio priest convicted of raping minor, sentenced as much as 40 years per rely

The circumstances stem from allegations that the priest raped a 16-year-old pupil scholar in March 2023 contained in the Bishop’s home compound in Baguio Metropolis, the place she was staying at the moment

BAGUIO, Philippines – A regional courtroom in Baguio Metropolis on Wednesday, December 17, convicted a Roman Catholic priest on three counts of rape and sentenced him to as much as 40 years in jail on every rely, courtroom paperwork confirmed.

The Baguio Metropolis Regional Trial Courtroom discovered Father Mark Batolne responsible past an affordable doubt and ordered his switch to the nationwide penitentiary. The courtroom additionally ordered him to pay the sufferer P75,000 in civil damages, P75,000 in ethical damages and P75,000 in exemplary damages for every rely, with curiosity of 6% per yr from the time the ruling turns into remaining till absolutely paid.

The circumstances stemmed from allegations that Batolne raped a 16-year-old pupil scholar in March 2023 contained in the Bishop’s home compound in Baguio Metropolis, the place she was staying at the moment.

Prosecutors stated the assaults have been carried out by way of power and intimidation, and that Batolne abused his place of authority. 

Two of the costs additionally alleged the usage of a lethal weapon.

Batolne, a priest of the Diocese of Baguio who held senior administrative posts on the time, pleaded not responsible and denied the accusations, presenting an alibi and witnesses in his protection.

In sentencing him to reclusion perpetua for every rely of rape, the courtroom stated the prosecution proved all parts of the crimes, giving weight to the complainant’s testimony and rejecting the protection.

Reclusion perpetua is a jail sentence of 20 years and someday as much as 40 years, imposed for severe crimes underneath the Revised Penal Code.

After the decision was handed down, the sufferer launched a press release (translated from Ilocano): “Many didn’t imagine me however I’m completely happy that the courtroom listened to me. I’m grateful to all who gave me help on this case like my dad and mom, the social employees and my attorneys who fought for me at no cost. I’m now free from worries and I hope I can begin one thing new with my life now that this case is over.”

The priest was defended by lawyer Ma. Concepcion Castro-Santiago, whereas the prosecution included private and non-private attorneys Don Immanuel V.C. Vergara, Jose Adrian Bonifacio, and Victoria Dines. – Rappler.com