Minor inconsistencies prove unrehearsed testimony

In effect, the accused attempts to cast doubt on the complainant's credibility because of these alleged inconsistencies. The trial court itself noted inconsistencies in the complainant's testimony, but these were "on minor details and do not at all touch upon the basis of the who, the how and when of the crime committed." On the contrary, further observed the trial court, they even served to enhance her credibility as these inconsistencies indicated that she was not a rehearsed witness. It is settled that when the issue is one of credibility of witnesses, appellate courts will generally not disturb the findings of the trial court, for the latter is in the unique position of hearing the witnesses and observing their deportment and manner of testifying, hence it can decide the credibility issue best. Additionally, the testimonies of rape victims who are of tender age are generally credible, especially in the case of the complainant in light of her voluntary submission to the examination of her private parts and to the investigation by the police authorities and, thereafter, to public trial and to the humiliation and ordeal of testifying to all the gory details of the sexual assault. Only a woman seeking justice with truth as her weapon could have endured these. [G.R. No. 119405-06. November 21, 1996]