Factual findings of the trial court

G.R. No. 212932               January 21, 2015

PEOPLE OF THE PHILIPPINES, Plaintiff-Appellee,
vs. ARNEL BALUTE y VILLANUEVA, Accused-Appellant.

"x x x.

It must be stressed that in criminal cases, factual findings of the trial court are generally accorded great weight and respect on appeal, especially when such findings are supported by substantial evidence on record. 

It is only in exceptional circumstances, such as when the trial court overlooked material and relevant matters, that the Court will re-calibrate and evaluate the factual findings of the court below.14 

Guided by the foregoing principle, the Court finds no cogent reason to disturb the RTC’s factual findings, as affirmed by the CA.

x x x."