Trier of Facts

The Supreme Court is not a trier of facts and is not to review or calibrate the evidence on record. When supported by substantial evidence, the findings of fact by the trial court are binding and conclusive on the parties and are not reviewable by the Supreme Court, unless the case falls under the recognized exceptions. An acceptable exception is where there is a conflict between the factual determination of the trial court and that of the appellate court. In such case, it becomes imperative to digress from this general rule and revisit the factual circumstances surrounding the controversy (G.R. No. 203786. October 23, 2013).