A MAN is set to face trial for anti-fencing law having been tagged in an alleged theft of church musical instruments last December 18, 2016.
Prosecutor Grace Lydda Lariego, in a resolution dated January 4, found probable cause to indict Rohelo Miguel for Robbery and violation of Anti-Fencing Law.
Based on the resolution, complainant Norton Liwanon Luyang last December 18, reported to the Bunawan police an alleged theft of church properties consisting of two electric guitars and an electric piano of the church premises located at Kabayan Relocation, Tibungco, Davao City.
A confidential informant later told authorities that the respondent Miguel sought his help to sell or dispose two electric guitars.
It was also revealed that the informant knew that the instruments were stolen from the Church of God World Mission of the Philippines.
An entrapment operation was launched against the respondent where the police officer acted as a buyer of the two guitars.
The police paid an amount of P2,000 in exchange of the guitar.
The guitar was later identified by Luyang as one of the musical instruments that were stolen from them.
The electrical guitars were valued at P 20,000 while the piano was valued at P12,779.
Lariego, in her resolution, said that "the mere possession of stolen properties by express provision of law is prima facie evidence of fencing".
She said that since the alleged robbery took place last December 18, it is already improper for inquest proceedings, hence, chose to issue subpoena for respondent to submit his countervailing evidence.