Digest.ph

This case involves the appeal of Fernando Ranche Havana, also known as Fernando Ranche Abana, who was convicted of violating Section 5, Article II of Republic Act No. 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. The appellant was accused of selling or delivering 0.03 grams of methylamphetamine hydrochloride, commonly known as "shabu," to an undercover police officer. The Regional Trial Court (RTC) found the appellant guilty and sentenced him to life imprisonment and a fine of P500,000. The Court of Appeals (CA) affirmed the RTC's decision. On appeal to the Supreme Court, the appellant argues that there was a lack of pre-coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), the non-presentation of the unnamed civilian informant, non-compliance with the prescribed procedure under Section 21 of RA 9165, and a dubious chain of custody of the seized shabu. The Supreme Court ultimately reverses the decision of the CA and acquits the appellant due to the prosecution's failure to establish an unbroken chain of custody and the lack of compliance with the procedural safeguards under Section 21 of RA 9165.

The statutory rules on preserving the chain of custody of confiscated prohibited drugs and related items are designed to ensure the integrity and reliability of the evidence to be presented against the accused. Their observance is crucial to the successful prosecution of illegal possession or sale of dangerous drugs.