G.R. No. L-1163; December 11, 1947
THE PEOPLE OF THE PHILIPPINES, plaintiff-appellee, vs. ADRIANO BUELA, defendant-appellant.

FACTS

The defendant-appellant, Adriano Buela, a Filipino citizen, was a member of the “Nacoco Garrison,” an organization of the Ganap Party that took over a National Coconut Corporation plant in Sariaya, Tayabas, for the Japanese during World War II. Members were armed by the Japanese and served as guards. Witnesses testified that Buela, bearing arms, accompanied Japanese soldiers in various locations. In early 1945, he participated with the garrison and Japanese soldiers in commandeering houses and confiscating foodstuffs in Mamala, Sariaya. On February 21, 1945, he was seen armed and with the garrison and Japanese soldiers escorting two prisoners (Hilarion de Villa and Quirico Delica), who subsequently disappeared. In March 1945, in Bucal, Sariaya, he participated in the armed confiscation of 15 sacks of palay, forcing witnesses to locate and measure the grain. After these events, Buela retreated to the mountains with the Japanese forces.

ISSUE

Whether the defendant-appellant, Adriano Buela, is guilty of the crime of treason.

RULING

Yes. The Supreme Court affirmed the decision of the People’s Court convicting Adriano Buela of treason. The prosecution witnesses’ clear and uncontradicted testimonies satisfied the two-witness rule required for treason, proving the accused’s adherence to the enemy and his willful giving of aid and comfort. His active participation in the Nacoco Garrison’s activities—including armed companionship with Japanese soldiers, confiscation of property, and involvement in the taking of prisoners—constituted overt acts of treason. His defense of mere denial and unsubstantiated claims of duress was insufficient to overcome the evidence of guilt. The penalty imposed by the lower court was affirmed.

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