Overseas properties & foreign currency should all be disclosed
A Plaza Miranda Exclusive
By Raïssa Robles
Justices of the Supreme Court as well as police and military generals should disclose their assets to the public, said the head of the independent agency overseeing such disclosures.
Civil Service Commission Chairman Francisco Duque told me in an exclusive interview:
The Supreme Court (justices) should also rescind their order that their SALN (Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth) is limited to the Supreme Court (because) there is nothing in the law that says that.
CSC is constitutionally mandated to ensure all government officials and employees not only make proper declarations through their SALNs but also enable the public – through the media – to scrutinize these.
Duque made this statement as Supreme Court Administrator Midas Marquez announced that the justices would have to meet first to decide whether or not to release the latest SALN of impeached Chief Justice Renato Corona to the impeachment court.
Duque noted the impact of Corona’s ongoing impeachment trial on SALN disclosures:
Serendipitously, a lot of good things may come out of this trial. For one, it has raised the awareness or consciousness of the public on SALNs as an instrument of transparency in government service.
I asked Duque whether or not SALNs should enumerate even the real properties abroad owned by government officials and employees. He replied:
Foreign real property, yes. The acquisition cost must be put…the improvements and the location.
In other words, he explained to me, foreign real properties must be declared in the very same way that real properties in the Philippines are declared.
I also asked Duque whether any assets in foreign currencies such as dollars or euros ought to be declared as well in SALNs. Duque replied:
The equivalent (of the assets) in pesos is what is being asked. Hindi yung foreign currency. Dapat in pesos, so you multiply it (the foreign currency asset) by the current exchange rate.
This means that if we follow Duque’s explanations, CJ Corona should have declared in his 2011 SALN which he submitted last April 30 any foreign real estate property and the value of all his foreign currency deposits here and abroad IN PESO TERMS.
Why justices clamped down on disclosures
Supreme Court justices blocked disclosures of their SALNs
Duque told me he had recently read why the SC justices had clamped down over 20 years ago on the public disclosure of SALNs of any member of the judiciary branch of government.
He said a certain Jose Alejandrino had asked for the SALNs of all the SC justices. The justices learned that Alejandrino had intended to leak the information to a litigant with a pending court case.
Nevertheless, Duque said:
I see no reason why it should not be disclosed. Media should be given access to it. That is in Section 8 of Republic Act 6713.
Duque was referring to the following paragraphs of RA 6713 or the public officials’ Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards. RA 6713 is the enabling law that gives life to Article XI, Section 17 of the 1987 Constitution which requires all public servants to fill up SALNs and disclose these to the public “in the manner provided by law”.
RA 6713 specifically directs the disclosure of SALNs in the following manner:
(C) Accessibility of documents. —
(1) Any and all statements filed under this Act, shall be made available for inspection at reasonable hours.
(2) Such statements shall be made available for copying or reproduction after ten (10) working days from the time they are filed as required by law.
(3) Any person requesting a copy of a statement shall be required to pay a reasonable fee to cover the cost of reproduction and mailing of such statement, as well as the cost of certification.
(4) Any statement filed under this Act shall be available to the public for a period of ten (10) years after receipt of the statement. After such period, the statement may be destroyed unless needed in an ongoing investigation.
I asked Duque whether military and police generals were exempted from such yearly SALN disclosure because I cannot recall the SALN of any general being disclosed annually. Duque said such disclosure was also enshrined in Article XI of the 1987 Constitution which states in:
Section 17. A public officer or employee shall, upon assumption of office and as often thereafter as may be required by law, submit a declaration under oath of his assets, liabilities, and net worth. In the case of the President, the Vice-President, the Members of the Cabinet, the Congress, the Supreme Court, the Constitutional Commissions and other constitutional offices, and officers of the armed forces with general or flag rank, the declaration shall be disclosed to the public in the manner provided by law.” [NOTE: Bold face supplied]
A bit of SALN history
Since the first law on SALNs was enacted in 1960 – or over half a century ago – Filipinos have not paid enough attention to these documents and government officials and employees have been more than happy to bury SALNs within the darkest confines of bureaucracy.
It was the political ambition of a sitting Philippine president which prompted the passage of RA 3019, requiring public officials to file SALNs for the first time.
Carlos P. Garcia wanted to be the first reelectionist Philippine president. But one year before his term ended, the electorate had become disillusioned because “graft and corruption in high and low places continued to plague society resulting in the loss of revenues to the government,” according to historians Teodoro Agoncillo and Milagros Guerrero in their book, History of the Filipino People.
To neutralize the corruption issue being hurled against him by his own vice-president, Diosdado Macapagal, Garcia backed Congress’ approval of RA 3019.
It was the country’s first comprehensive Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act. It branded as crimes such rampant political practices as the giving of “manifestly excessive” presents even during birthdays, weddings or fiestas. The law, however, did not quantify what a “manifestly excessive” gift was.
RA 3019 also introduced an anti-corruption tool – the mandatory yearly filing of a SALN by everyone in government. Again, though, this law was sloppily followed because lawmakers had provided a large loophole in the law. There was no way of counter-checking whether the law was being followed because public disclosure of SALNs was not required.
It would take Congress 26 more years and the bitter experience of a rapacious dictatorial government to close that loophole. After the dictator Ferdinand Marcos fled in 1986 leaving behind a bankrupt treasury, a new Constitution was ratified. It enshrined the filing of SALNs but left it to Congress to pass an enabling law to spell out the manner of public disclosure.
That enabling law was approved two years later in 1989 as RA 6713. This spelled out the manner of disclosure through the media. It gave media unprecedented access to these documents for the first time, but subject to certain conditions. Most importantly, it entitled the media – as the public’s eyes and ears – to disseminate what was written in the SALNs.
Quietly, though, the Supreme Court issued a resolution exempting one entire branch of government or the judiciary from the constitutional and legal requirements of SALN disclosures. How the justices were able to do this is a puzzle.
Perhaps, at that time even media did not realize the full value of SALNs.
My experience testing SALN disclosure laws
In recent weeks, I was inadvertently able to test the SALN disclosure laws when I tried to obtain the SALN of presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda.
This was after my attention was called by a US-based Fil-Am lawyer regarding the existence of certain California properties purportedly belonging to another senior Philippine government official besides Corona.
Curious as to what else he could turn up, I asked the lawyer – whom I will call Steve – to look up as well any real properties belonging to close aides of President Benigno Aquino III, who are at the forefront of an anti-corruption campaign. For good measure, I also asked Steve to look for any properties owned by Associate Justice Antonio Carpio (CJ Corona’s Supreme Court colleague and school mate), since I had earlier received a tip that some Malacanang Palace aides of President Fidel V. Ramos once bought properties in Florida. It was Carpio who had recruited Corona into the Ramos administration.
Steve did not find any US properties in the name of Florencio Abad (the Department of Budget Secretary) and Paquito Ochoa (the Executive Secretary). But he found US properties in the name of an Edwin Lacierda, a Ramon Carandang and an Antonio Carpio.
Steve and I were able to discount the name of Justice Carpio as the Antonio Carpio owning a California property because the name of the wife in the California property record did not match the name of Justice Carpio’s wife, whom I learned was Vietnamese.
As for matching the Ramon Carandang in the California property records with Communications Strategist Secretary Ramon “Ricky” Carandang, the process was harder. No one I talked to knew the name of Secretary Carandang’s wife. So I had to ask Secretary Carandang himself. Again, his wife’s name did not match what was in the California property record.
I also asked Carandang whether he owned any property in the US. He replied:
I have no property (in the US) at all.
Validating Edwin Lacierda’s US property
Secretary Lacierda was listed as a co-owner in a condo unit in California:
When I asked him whether he and his wife owned it, Secretary Lacierda replied:
It’s all disclosed in my SALN last year. It’s a time-sharing apartment. I disclosed my property, my wife’s property. I have nothing to hide.
I acquired it when I was a private individual. A long time ago – It was my one-half share. We halved with my sister-in-law. The property is more of my wife’s. My time sharing unit is all there (in my SALN). That was disclosed in my first SALN (2010). I think PCIJ (Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism) has a copy of my SALN. My SALN has already been scrutinized by Malou Mangahas.
I wanted to counter-check what he said. I asked Malou Mangahas about Lacierda’s SALN. She advised me to get my own copy.
I tried to get my own copy of Secretary Lacierda’s SALN.
I phoned the Malacanang Records Office, which officially releases these documents. They were very nice about it. But they told me I could not e-mail them my request since they had “no computer”. They told me I could also not fax my request to them since their fax machine was broken.
They were willing, though, for me to send my letter-request via a messenger service.
I had to find an easier way. Glenda Gloria of Rappler-Newsbreak agreed to help and obtain for me a copy of Secretary Lacierda’s SALN from the Malacanang Records Office. In return, I told Glenda she could upload this story onto their website. I would also like to thank Rey Santos Jr. who physically obtained the SALN for Newsbreak-Rappler. No joke, in this heat.
Secretary Lacierda was telling the truth. He did disclose his California property in his 2010 SALN. I have placed a red dot beside the disclosures. See below –
He declared in his SALN that his time-sharing portion cost him P202,500 (or around US$5,066.00 at the exchange rate then of P39.97).
However, he listed this under “Personal and Other Properties” and not under “Real Properties”.
The problem with SALNs
I asked CSC Chair Duque about this. He said the problem was that while a form was prescribed for SALN disclosures, people tended not to follow this. He added:
Agencies can formulate their own guidelines but they cannot deviate too much from what is said in the law.
Would putting SALNs online violate the law?
For transparency and easy access, why can’t the Office of the President simply put SALNs of cabinet and other senior officials who submit to them online, I asked Undersecretary Manolo Quezon. This would include military officers from the rank of colonel and naval captain.
What Usec Quezon said surprised me:
My personal understanding is, the existing rules do not allow it.
Usec Quezon said the Civil Service Commission had issued guidelines on SALN disclosures and these have to be followed. [*NOTE: I have included at the end of this article links pertaining to SALNs that were provided by @Baycas, one of the members of Our Cyber Plaza Miranda, the growing community of Filipinos here and abroad who congregate in this site.Thank you, @Baycas.]
Usec Quezon said that to enable the Office of the President to upload SALNs online,
We need to pass an FOI (Freedom of Information law) for mandatory online publication. That explains why we put it in the FOI.
I asked a University of the Philippines law professor about this. My source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, agreed with Quezon’s view and added that government officials could even impose conditions on how their SALNs would be made public.
I asked Chairman Duque if that was his understanding of the law. He said there was nothing in the law that would prevent Malacanang from posting SALNs online.
Duque disclosed that due to different interpretations on how to fill up SALNs and disclose their contents to the public, he would call a meeting of the various stakeholders soon:
We’re putting together a technical working committee. I will chair it personally. We will get representatives, including from the public sector labor union.
Duque also noted that the new SALN form that he had tried implementing this year was actually derived from RA3019, which was approved way back in 1960. This law states that aside from disclosing assets and liabilities, a SALN filer was required to state “the amounts and sources of his income, the amounts of his personal and family expenses and the amount of income taxes paid for the next preceding calendar year.”
Interestingly, in all the SALNs of top politicians I have seen through the years, I’ve never seen anyone disclose personal and family expenses and income taxes paid.
My first-hand experience in requesting for Secretary Lacierda’s SALN showed me that SALNs are not easy to obtain. Is there a conspiracy to make it difficult for citizens to find out about SALNs?
It also showed me how important SALNs could become as a tool for ferreting out unexplained wealth, if accomplished properly and disclosed publicly and on time.
____________________________________
Links pertaining to SALNs provided by @Baycas, who belongs to Our Plaza Miranda, a growing community of Filipinos here and abroad who congregate in this site :
The Civil Service Commission (CSC) had an old SALN form (1994) similar to what Chief Justice Corona and other justices used. Click here to download the old form.
Click here to download the accompanying instructions on filling up this form.
The CSC revised the old SALN form into one that would require a very detailed “baseline declaration.” But due to protests against it, its use was deferred in 2008. Click here to read the deferment. CSC Chair Duque tried to revive the new SALN form recently but many again protested. It remains deferred to this day.
Chavydada says
WHAT IF?
1. Pasay City RTC allowed GMA to seek medical treatment abroad for complications arising from her earlier surgery of neck ailment.
2. CJ Corona will take the witness stand a few days after GMA’s departure for another country.
3. CJ Corona will tell the impeachment court that his dollar deposits are not his; that he is just holding the money in trust.
4. The money in his account has already been withdrawn by the real owner, GMA.
___________________
abs-cbnnews.com
One of CJ Corona’s defense lawyer said, A POSSIBLE EXPLANATION FOR CJ CORONA’S DOLLAR
ACCOUNTS IS THAT THE MONEY ISN’T HIS BUT THAT HE IS HOLDING IT IN TRUST FOR SOMEONE
ELSE.
Sam says
@Chavydada
Then he still needs to declare it as “in trust of” or as “liability”
raissa says
I’ll try to post tomorrow, guys.
I found out something INTERESTING :0
Sam says
hala!… ano kaya yon? :)
jun 2 says
si mam naman oh,,,,, tungkol kaya saan yan,,,panatag o maligalig? hehehe,,, parang manggang nakakapaglaway tuloy ehh!!! :))
Bonifacio Katipunero says
talap :D
Mafe says
excited na ako!
Bonifacio Katipunero says
About Arroyos, the ultimate tulisan!
Palagay ko yung pag alis ni Miguel Arroyo ay front lang yun para patunayan kuno na hindi sila tatakas..
Pansinin nyo, nung bago sya bumalik, biglang may news na dapat na talagang operahan si GMA at dalhin sa ibang bansa… then pagdating ni miguel, sabi nya.. see, i told you na babalik ako..
Conditioning yan para pag dalawa na silang umalis, hindi na sila babalik!
MALYN says
Correct – isineset up ang mind ng taumbayan para hindi sila muling pagdudahan na hindi muling babalik once na ipinagpilitan nila na dapat operahan si Gloria pandak sa abroad. sa totoo lang ang statement na dapat siya operahan abroad ay galing sa isang private doctor na parang walang coordination sa VMMC doctors. kaya walang official statement from VMMC. So gaano katotoo na siya ay dapat gamutin sa abroad. Gusto lang tumakas baka sakaling maiisahan si Judge Mupas..
Mafe says
Nasaan ang SALN ni Corona filed April 2012? Manlilinlang talaga tong TJ na ito.
JiroArturo says
@mafe
Hindi pa tapos ang 2012. Mayo pa lang tayo. Yon 2011 SALN ni Corona naka-file na pero hindi mabubuksan ninuman maliban na lang kung kusang ilalabas ni Corona
baycas says
Relevant, material, and pertinent to the issue at hand in this blog post!
The Senate Impeachment Court [sic] with the prodding of the prosecution should have compelled Team Corona to divulge Corona’s 2011 SALN filed last April 2012.
That should have happened on Day 1 of the resumption of the trial (May 7).
Mel says
@baycas,
Right on. You nailed it.
It would have ended the SI earlier. Not even the mainstream media, broadsheets, radio or tele outlets doesn’t seem to be bothered about this oversight.
NOW, that has been put in the back burner, overcomed by R Corona, Ombudsman appearances, U$10 M aggregate accounts, etc.
Now, it seems the Senate is using a third of it’s time on this R Corona Senate Impeachment. Its as if they were put into office just for an impeachment. Of which some Senators wouldn’t be bothered by what propendarance of evidences to point at R Corona’s guilt. They’d opt for a tradpol dumb wit acquittal vote – CJ’s scot-free.
In the end, JPE may have made a fool of himself and the other Senate Judges. R Corona may after all not cooperate or be picky on what Questions to answer. If R Corona doesn’t cooperate, will they incarcerate (House arrest) him for not divulging?
EVEN THEN, some of the bridled info (answers) he’ll puke can not be cross verified by OTHER gov’t authorities or discounted. It’s just a Question and Answer, he can not be treated as hostile to himself INSOFAR as the Ombudsman’s letter and 3 group party complainants. They belong to another jurisdiction – The Ombudsman’s.
The Ombudsman’s testimony may not even be that damning, otherwise she could compromise her future court proceedings against the CJ for UNVERIFIED statements. As for the 3 group of complainants, they would just narrate what they read from the newspapers and received postal mails from anonymous sources, which became part of their ‘complaints’ to the Ombudsman.
<b?The PROSECUTION.
If the Prosecs are not reactionary, they would be prepared for this milestone to accomplish an ingenious conviction. They should muster evidences, materials and arguments to support the Ombudsman’s appearance, a threesome with 3 new group of complainants.
Remember, JPE swayed the Prosecs (by cuffing witnesses to be presented by the Prosecs?) in regards to the other Articles of Impeachment, that resulted the dropping of the other Articles of Complaint due to JPE’s surprise stance or decision on key witnesses for Article VII.
Mel says
typo
<b?The PROSECUTION.baycas says
Patibong
Minsan nang tinangka ng kampo ni Corona na idawit ang Pangulong Noynoy. Sa mata nila ang “impeachment” ay bunga lang ng kaisipang mula sa mapaghiganting pangulo (gaya rin ng paratang ni gloria kay P.Noy).
Subali’t hindi nagtagumpay ang kampo ni Corona nang hindi pahintulutan ang ebidensiyang tulad ng mahabang kuwento ni Tiangco.
Ngayon, ganoon pa rin ang kanilang taktika. Idawit si P.Noy at gamitin ang mga kaalyado nito. Papaharapin sa Korte ang mga tulad ni Harvey Keh, Risa Hontiveros, atbp. Papaharapin ang Ombudsman na siyang naggawad ng panunumpa kay P.Noy bilang pangulo.
Kunwari lang na ang tanging pakay ay sa tagong-yaman ni Corona. Nguni’t siya ring pakay ay siraan ang pangulo at palitawing walang ginawang masama si Corona na ikatatanggal niya sa puwesto bilang Punong Mahistrado.
Ipalalabas nila na ang mga paratang ay kathang-isip lamang ng mga kaalyado ni P.Noy at ang “impeachment” ay upang yurakan lang ang “judicial independence” ng isang mistulang diktador.
Nagsalita na si Cuevas sa ganitong pakay. Lumabas na muli si Corona na animo’y bugbog-saradong humihiyaw ng saklolo. “Vicious and brutal attacks” daw ang natatamo ni Corona mula sa mga kaalyado ni P.Noy. Hindi raw sila titigil hangga’t hindi siya madurog nang husto.
Sabayan pa ang mga ito ng isang senador na nagsasabing “P.Noy never gave Corona a chance.”
Imbes na sagutin na lang ang mga paratang ay gagawa at gagawa pa rin ng paglilihis sa mga kaso ang kampo ni Corona.
Ang nakalulungkot ay kapag ang Senado, na nahuli na kamakailan sa patibong, ay maging kasangkapan din ng ganitong klase ng depensa.
Mel says
Bakit nga ba kunsintador ang karamihan ng mga nanunungkulan sa gobyerno?
Bagama’t maliwanag ang mga kamalian ng nasasakdal, patuloy pa ring namumulitika?
Patuloy na binabahidan ng kulay politika ang kaniyang sapalarang tanggalin sa posisyon.
Utak talangka. Isang malaking pagkakamali na naupo si R Corona sa Korte Suprema.
Mafe says
Corona and his camp always keep on saying that he is innocent, that he is not hiding anything, that he should not be persecuted, that he should be acquitted. If this were true, defending him and proving his innocence would be a walk in the park. Two simple things to do: divulge his dollar accounts (and of course account history) and show latest SALN. (I would love to see Atty. Roy with all his (vile) cockiness wave these papers on national TV. But why is Corona prolonging his own agony? It is because these “make or break” evidences would throw him to the pits. The simple fact that he has been willfully hiding these information makes him unfit to be CJ. Corona is GUILTY!!!!!!!!!!!
Victin luz says
@mafe,
Ala e ganito ere iyan, sabi ng tatay ko noong nagtratrabaho pa sa BIR ay,
IF I WILL TELL THE TRUTH, I WILL GO TO JAIL so I WILL JUST TELL A LIE.
BETTER GO TO HELL THAN GO TO HEAVEN. Ala e si satanas ay natanggap daw ng SUHOL at madaling kausapin , isang ” texas pulo” lang daw ay papayagan kanang wag mag sumite ng SALN pwedi ka pa daw bumili ng bahay sa HEAVEN ipangalan mulang daw sa anak mong nasa HEAVEN kung mayroon ka. At saka may bago daw na ordinasya si San Pedro, hind daw pweding mag practice ng abogasya sina CUEVAS, ROY JR., JIMENO, SALVADOR at iba pa nyang kasamahan sa HEAVEN. BAN sila pero si MERIAM daw pwede kasi INTERNATIONAL LAWYER daw sya at kailangan din nang Check and Balance sa HEAVEN. Galling sa TATAY ni CORONA itong NEWS na Ito ha.
baycas says
Team Corona gave us the novel idea of CORRECTING the untruth and the concealment in SALNs which some “anomalies” within the Senate Impeachment Court [sic] would like to believe and even foster for every public officials to emulate.
While we know that Team Corona’s novel idea of SALN “correction” is contrary to the letter and spirit of the SALN Law*, the introduction of this “palusot” in open court would force them to unveil Corona’s Secret SALN.
Let them prove their innovative concept of how untruthful SALNs are manipulated to become truthful.
Bring out Corona’s 2011 SALN…even ahead of his possibly bogus personal Court appearance.
—–
*SALN correction is only limited to its Form and not Substance; this correction is immediately done upon review of the SALN and not done years after it was filed. Jurisprudence will back up these assertions.
baycas says
Relative to Article 2 of the AOI:
Did Corona do a Pleyto or a Racho?
He did both!!!
maddog says
corona is doomed because he chose the path of amassing ill-gotten wealth and corruption.
if he’s honest with his SALNs, people will immediately see his ill-gotten wealth.
if he’s dishonest with his SALNs, people will ask how he was able to acquire all his expensive gears.
he chose to be dishonest with his SALNs because chances of not being caught are better.
maddog says
by not releasing his latest saln, he is contradicting his own lawyers’ claim that saln’s can be corrected. the kind of errors in his previous SALNs cannot be corrected without revealing his ill-gotten wealth. so it will make him look even more guilty (if that is at all possible since he looks so guilty already) once people see it.
Mashe Dah says
IS ENRILE, CORONA PROTECTOR?
I think so. If everybody in the Impeachment court wants to know the truth, the Impeachment court under its constitutional mandate of being supreme when it comes to Impeachment cases, can order Corona to submit to them the 2011 SALN just like his 2010 SALN. But Enrile simply refuse to do it, he knows it will shorten the proceeding because it will lay bare immediately how truthful is Corona. Let any Senator ask him and expect him to threaten to resign because he knows everybody just wants him to finish the proceedings.
My impresion is masyadong nilalagay ni Enrile si Corona sa pedestal na “ngayon, ingat lahat sa Impeachment Court at si Chief justice ito”. Footrish ang tagal ng perwisyo nitong taong to, wala namang nilalabas na ebidensyang totoo. E di para magkasubukan tingnan ang kanyang 2011 SALN.
The impression is Enrile seemed to want to protect him. I doubt it if Corona ever filed anything. This goes to the heart of transparency and accountability that the Constitution wants to breathe life into but the SC wants to muffle.
So what happens now, do we all just skirt the issue?. Isn’t that the whole point of this impeachment exercise-SALN as the the barometer of a Chief Justice’s faithfulness to the people’s trust at this point?
I may be wrong but my gut feel tells me there are forces who wants him to go scot free despite the blatant betrayal of the people’s trust which is an impeachable offense.
Enrile seemed to be sponsoring what we all abhor-lack of transparency and accountability from the SC justices by following the SC position of non disclosure of their SALN.
Ano ba to? Bakit ganito? Ang mali iganagalang, ang mga tama pinapahiya..mga galing ba sa impiyerno ang mga magulang nitong mga ito?
Faith Zabala says
Technically, Enrile could not require Corona to give up his 2011 SALN. It is not part of the allegations.
Mel says
You are awfully wrong @Faith Zabala by writing ‘… It is not part of the allegations.’.
The 2011 SALN is part and parcel of the Article II of Complaints.
The defense might even submit it as evidence as proof or support to their legal argument or maneuver that R Corona reserves the right to correct ‘inadvertent errors’ on his previous SALNs.
During the next proceedings, R Corona would always refer his omissions and errors to an update by corrections & detailing them in his current 2012 submission for 2011 SALN. Either way, it is still damning due to discrepancies and failure to consistently & correctly fill them for the last x years.
Victin luz says
Mashe Dah,
It can not be than @mashe thru SIC resolution that Corona’s 2011 SALN will be presented during the trial. If the prosecution will do these, they need to amend the IMPEACHMENT COMPLAINT and goes back to the lower house again for votation, it will be back to square one.
If Corona will sit at witness stand then the prosecutors and the SENATORS JURORS can extract any questions to Corona and asked him to present his 2001 SALN if he is telling the truth to compare his 2002 up to 2010 SALN. If he refused then he is lying and most likely a conviction verdict by the SENATOR JURORS. Coronas at the WITNESS STAND means everything and anything under the SUN.
Victin luz says
Enrile, is giving the due process Corona’s and his defense wanted, in order to prevent a walk out by Coronas group thus a failure of the impeachment proceedings.It’s the truth that he wants and also Enriles Legacy if the trial is successful.
Bonifacio Katipunero says
Eto na yung part II ng Isang tawag ko lang..
Ang mga tulisan ng Basa-Guidote Properties!
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=124323021037457&set=a.117211661748593.18204.100003792809195&type=3&theater
Eber Redi says
Pareng Boni! Juan Luna 2012!
Another masterpiece!
Wow! Hehehehe! parang movie poster!
tenx ulit!
Leona says
parang yun sa Red Cliff cine!
Martial Bonifacio says
Off-topic:
Para maintindihan ng ibang tao na hindi lahat ng intsik ay masama ill put this link that shows how china’s media controls the perception of their people. Kaya akala ng mga chinese in china we are the aggressors where in reality we are always pushing for a peaceful solution.
Media blackout whenever something is against china:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=llo0y0GhWp4
Pandaman meets Batman:
http://edition.cnn.com/2012/01/23/world/asia/china-pandaman-cartoons/index.html?iref=allsearch
http://asia.cnn.com/video/?hpt=ias_t5#/video/bestoftv/2012/05/08/grant-china-state-of-fear.cnn
maddog says
“Ayokong dumating ang panahon na ako’y may pagbabayaran o at my deathbed, binabagabag ako ng konsensiya ko because I did not do what is right and I went against my conscience. I did something, something unfair or inequitable to a person.”
that’s what corona said in the last question in his interview with mia.
what he and his family did in grabbing bgei from the basas was not only unfair but wicked. how will he reconcile this when his death comes around?
Leona says
He intentionally did not use the word “being accused” for etc. etc. That quotation as his remarks is self-destructing! Tama! Guilty kasi.
christy says
Question sa mga nakaka intindi ng corporate laws.
since 2001 pa na liquidate property ng BGEI ( 34.7 million )
then 2003 nagkaroon ng final writ of execution.
di ba dapat sa pondo ng bgei kinuha ung 500,000 php ung multa ni jose basa
sa pagkakatalo nya sa libel case.
bakit hindi sinabi ni cristina corona sa sheriff na na may asset ang BGEI
worth 34.7m sa bangko.
na confiscate at pina auction ang mga shares ni jose basa.
but j. basa’s shares is way way worth more tha 500,000 php.
Bonifacio Katipunero says
Parang walang alam ang mga shareholders ng Basa-Guidote sa bilihan. Remember sabi ni Ana Basa, nagulat sila dun sa 11M na loan sa start pa lang ng impeachment.. tapos kalaunan nung nabuko na may na withdraw si Thief nung araw na na impeach sya ng more than 30M+ eh biglang pinapalusot nila ngayon na pera iyon ng Basa-Guidote. Im sure, kung titignan isa isa ang bank deposit ni Thief, malalaman na yung pera galing sa kung kani-kaninong tao….. pag nakita natin yung individual deposit ng mga bank acct nya, malamang wala ng pagtataguan ang mag anak na CoraCot!
Leona says
There is taking of property without due process of law as the “notice” in that auction sale was sent to the “wrong address.” So, no proper valid notice! Yun lang, void na ang lahat ng auction, etc.
Parekoy says
Yun ang ebedinsya ng tinatawag na impunity!
Garapal at lantaran na dinugas.
Similarities:
Gloria- dinugas ang pwesto kay Erap at ang boto kay FPJ.
Ampatuan-dinugas ang buhay at inilibing ang mga medya escortbat tropa ni Mangungudatu.
Marcos at Imelda- dinugas ang kaban ng bayan at dinugas ang momentum ng pag-unlad ng ating bayan.
Pacquiao- dinugas na ang lahat ng ‘talints’: boksing, songer, gameshu hust, indursir, public sirbant, pastor at magtatatag pa ata ng sexta!
Tulfo brothers-dinugas na ang lahat ng yabang at garapalang manakot sa live TV program. Paang sila na ang batas.
Claudine- dinugas ang pagka barako ni Mon Tulfo :-) Yong mga naaapi raw ay magsusumbong na kay Claudine.
pelang says
ha-ha-ha-ha!
eestaana says
@ Parekoy,
Sana ang mga similarities na binanggit mo ay laging maging laman ng mga comments dito sa blog. Why? To serve as meaningful reminders. Many thanks for these similarities. Sana makapaglagay ka tungkol naman kay Binay – na masyadong hot na hot sa presidential election.
Kabayan2020 says
Yung mga pari kaya n sumusoporta Kay tj eh full support pa din ba? Ano na kaya stand nila sa mga mandurugas na pamilya ngayong lumabas na ang tutuo?
Leona says
Binay is just minding his presidential ambition business! Basta ako TWO ZERO ONE SIX (not the required vote). 2016! Hocus focus ko yan!
johnny Lin says
Silence of Defense lawyers is the Latest News except a few days ago Atty Esguerra floated their tril blloon that ”
Corona foreign deposits were money given in trust to him”
His peso accounts were entrusted to him as well. In banking laws, Baycas cpuld correct me on this, the depositor who opened the bank accounts is the owner by providing his name, SS number or ITR number and his signature to access, deposit and withdraw from the accounts, unless it is specifically mentioned that the accpunt is in trust of someone like a minor child or incompetent person.
The bank documents are the only proof of ownership despite any pleading afterwards. In Erap case, he did not use his actual name so Jose Velarde could be claimed by anyone who could prove the account. Similarly, Jose Pidal was different name from Mike Arroyo so Iggy Arroyo made a claim on the account.
In case of Corona, it better be that the supposed FCD accounts are not under his name,signatures and ITR number or his lawyer announcement proves only that Esguerra is a documented liar.
Providing papers that somebody entrusted the dollars to Corona would not save him because as justice of the Supreme Court he should be beyond reproach and full of integrity. Accepting money for more than $10,000 and depositing it in his name without reveling the the real owner or source which could be illegal money is MONEY LAUNDERING..
Whichever route Corona wants to go to explain his bank accounts he would commit a crime. By revealing he ccepted money to hide he is guilty of Laundering while amassing enormous dollr deposits without known legal source is ill gotten wealth. Both are betrayal of public trust and failure to enter in SALN as liquid assets. The trust money if accepted with proven documents should have been both listed as assets and liabilitiies on the same year. Failure to do so violated the law and is inexcusable for a SC justice who must firts uphold the law.
Senators could easily understand simple arithmetic and more important, PLAIN HONESTY.
Aside from peso deposits, just adding the $2 Million already known deposits become harder to explain, how much more difficult the foreign currency amount going as high as $10M would bring?
Oh what a mess Corona lawyers put on Corona’s lap unless his only motive is making his Pathetic final plea to the Senators by invoking his Love for his Country and GRANDCHILDREN and preserving the Independence of the Judiciary.
Rumor going around was that Joker and Miriam gave him the advice to invoke his grandchildren to the Senators in his coming “self proclaim truthful testimony”.
WALANG BUDHI TALAGA, GINAMIT ANG ANAK SA PAGNANAKAW, GAGAMITIN ANG APO PARA HUMINGI NG AWA SA KATARANTADUHAN, “he he he.
baycas says
Correct. You’re right about this, Johnny.
Banks and depositors maintain an agreement lasting the “lifetime” of each deposit account.
“In-trust-for” accounts for minors and incapacitated persons require papers such as birth or medical certificates.
Definitely, “Treasurer-in-trust-for” (TITF) bank accounts also require papers such as incorporation documents etc.
BGEI money should have run the course of a TITF account. Unfortunately, Renato and Cristina (Carla too) lack the necessary papers. Last December, BGEI money was hastily withdrawn because the money is under the name of Renato.
Renato authorized Cristina to hastily withdraw the BGEI money NOT BECAUSE he lost trust with the bank BUT BECAUSE people will mistrust him more as he was keeping money which is not his own.
Sadly for Renato, “walang lihim na ‘di nabubunyag.”
Leona says
Given “in trust for him?” He needs a good credible Trust Document for that. Verbal is not enough. Even his peso bank accounts cannot be said “in trust to him.” Also a credible Trust Document is a must. He’s a lawyer and he knows this. As I believe, he should not be allowed to be making verbal statements using parol evidence style as against documents & writings, as the law requires clear credible proofs to the contrary.
johnny Lin says
On another News:
Mike Arroyo returned from foreign trip. There was suspicion that he met with two emissaries from two European countries, Portugal and Austria, about possible political asylum for his family. Mike Arroyois going to request to travel again within one month prior to the court date of GMA.
The medical checkup and announcement of serious illness of GMA is part of the plot as well as the changing of her physicians from St Luke’s to Makati. Their next possible announcement is the advice to file medical malpractice against her old physicians. The other part of the plot is floating the ide she will run for re election to prove she does not intend to flee from the country ftee medical treatment.
The third part of the plot is prolong the Impeachment of Corona by pleading for his rights to present more evidence on his dollar accounts and testimonies from bank officials. If the RTC grants GMA permit to seek medical treatment abroad, then the TRO for her and Mike’s foreign travel remains in effect while Corona is still in control of SC. Senate is going on recess by June 7 unless PNoy will ask for special session.
They are all intertwined.
Beware of the new twists and plots!
anonymous_coward says
Legacy from the former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to the Filipino people and Philippine history:
The following happened during GMA presidency:
GMA is from Pampanga.
During the Philippine–American War, also known as the Philippine War of Independence or the Philippine Insurrection (1899–1902), there was a Macabebe Scouts composed of native resident of Macabebe, Pampanga.
A separate Native American Indian tribe were used by the US to betray other Native American Indian tribe. Same thing in the Philippines. The US used the Macabebe Scouts to defeat and capture General Aguinaldo in Palanan, Isabela.
The Macabebe Scouts came from the province of GMA.
To all CPM’er, what do you think of the Macabebe Scouts and the former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo?
Mel says
@anonymous_coward.
And what do you think of the ilocanos from the Ilocos Region where the late F Marcos hails from?
You have a distorted view of Phils. history by isolating a ‘scout’s group’ from Macabebe by correlating with a despised ex President GMA from Lubao Pampanga.
Kapampangans are not that sordid as you foolishly look down on some of them.
Enemy collaborators do so irrespective of their tribe, clan, province or groups who hail from one town or barrio.
Your comment/opinion is as good as your chosen pseudonym, coward & anonymous.
anonymous_coward says
@Mel,
There is no instance in the above post that malign people of Pampanga as a whole or any Kapampangans speaking person. In fact, the province of Tarlac where Ninoy Aquino, President Cory Aquino and our current President Pnoy they also speak Kapampangans.
If you have doubts or questions regarding the Macabebe Scouts treasonous act, you can look at the Wikipedia or dig it out yourself or present any historical fact to rebut it. But here are the online resources for our CPM’er.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philippine_Scouts#Macabebe_Scouts
http://philippineamericanwar.webs.com/captureofaguinaldo1901.htm
For former President Marcos, he was already a history.
If you have found anything about the “ilocanos from the Ilocos Region” then share it also here and let everybody review it.
Odadsoid says
@anonymous_coward,
quite unfair to Kapampangans!
“walang gubat na walang ahas”
bicolano ako!
Springwoodman says
@johnnylin
Wow! Your analyses, predictions and the behind-the-scene revelations are awesome. It is as if you are part of the inner circle of the defense team or, better still, a fly on the wall in their meetings and conferences. You not only telegraph the movements of the team and GMA but also reveal the rationale behind their tactics and strategy. It is a good thing that your brilliance is as solid as your moral sense. I salute you and Baycas and Ms Raissa for being in the vanguard of this fight against corruption.
concerned citizen says
agree 100+%
amante_rador says
@johnny lin
great..that is vigilance and pro-active instinct..
@a_coward
do you mean the cabalens are de bayong din kagaya nung panahon ng hapon??..hmmm…
anonymous_coward says
Not the cabalens. Macabebe Scouts were worse than the Makapili Japanese collaborators of WWII.
The Macabebe Scouts of 1902 were depicted in a newspaper performing water-boarding or torturing a captured Filipino soldier of Gen Aguinaldo. See the Wikipedia link above.
Tessa says
ditto
Parekoy says
Kung ang tingin ni PNoy ay Bida sya, kailangan may kontrabida.
Noong tinatanong daw si PNoy kung papayagan lumabas ng bansa si Gloria para magpagamot, ang sagot daw ni PNoy:
.
.
.
“Ano ako, ABNOY?”
gb says
like
Leona says
Dirty plot countered with dirty plots: UNO: GMA applies to leave for abroad for medical. SAGOT: court denies it. DOS: Corona wants to delay the trial. SAGOT: Senate denies. Reason: You have no evidence.
TRES: Alas tres na! Sa ala cinco GUILTY KA NA! QUATRO: The trial is cerrado na! CINCO: Ombudman take over! A short history of the ending.
Leona says
Just my guess and could be wrong: CJ will testify by “statements” to the contrary of documents or writtings, etc. by using parol evidence. Normally, this cannot be allowed. There are exceptions but very strict.
Senators/pres. officer be alert! Prosecution team be alert. Statements, verbal or otherwise cannot be admitted as proofs to contradict to documents or writings, etc., like banks accounts or SALNs.
Parol Evidence rule.
Parekoy says
Kung criminal case, yung pagpalabas na dinugas lang nila yung pera at ag may ari kuno ng sharesvay si Carla, then I will applaud the defense team for that strategy.
Pero impeachment case ito, ang essence ng case ay “Betrayal of Public Trust”! Ang tanong ay kung fitbpa ba si Corona na gampanan ang kanyang tungkulin?
So in the contrary, in the annals of defense strategies, this will be the worst!
I bet Judd Roy’s balls and you can snip Cuevas’ rockstar hairstyle that even Miriam will not go nuts to give Corona an acquittal vote! She is might be mental but she is not a moron.
My recalibrated forecast:
Guilty=21
Acquit= 0
Abstain=2
flocesar says
paano kung ibigay n’ya sa 2 senator judges na hindi na tatakbo sa senado ang $10 million na nasa $ acct. daw niya para katumbas sa kanyang acquital, ‘di ba s’ya maa acquit?
Leona says
Ako, ito akin: ABSTAIN = 8 GUILTY = 0 ACQUIT = 0 No diet!
johnny Lin says
Coronaption:
According to Makati Medical Specialist bulletin, GMA in serious trouble due to complications from her cervical implant encroaching on the esophagus causing her to have difficulty in swallowing(hirap sa paglunok)
Nung nalaman ni PNoy ang diagnosis at tinanong kung papayagan niya si GMA na magpagamot sa abroad ang sagot niya ganito:
Nahihirapan lamang niyang LUNUKIN na pinakukulong natin siya, si Mike, Mikey at Corona sa kanilang pangdarambong sa gobyerno. Mawawala kaagad yun kapag pinayagan natin sila.
Leona says
In short, the good answer of PNoy is LET HER CHOKE! Tama! Kasi choking lang yan! (sabi ni kimchii)
rafael l. vidal says
Thanks to Rene-Ipil #111.2 & 94.2 and Johnny Lin #108 for clarifying the issues I raised on my comments # 111.
I can’t find the details of the QC libel case filed by cristina corona against Jose Basa for the same offense she also filed in Manila. The accused already left this world on August 29, 2002 before the final judgment was rendered on October 2, 2002 and the writ of execution on April 4, 2003.
In my humble view, the controversial auction sale held in the office of sheriff bisnar on September 3, 2003 for the shares of stock of Jose Basa, is highly questionable and smack of HOCUS-FOCUS since the accused was already dead before the final judgment was rendered.
APING-API NA ANG MGA MAGULANG NI ANA BASA KASI ANG KALABAN NILA AY MYEMBRO SA KORTE SUPREMA.
However, Ana’s time will come soon and, hopefully, she can correct the injustices done to her parents and to the other members of the Basa-Guidote clan.
johnny Lin says
There was no hocus pocus because there was no actual public auction conducted. Sheriff Bisnar was a party in providing false documents. He signed a sale certificate of stocks dated Sept 30, 2003. All the rest of his explanations were verbal without documentations except his written report conveniently done in 2012.
If evryone reviews the video of his testimony there were two occasions when he wanted to explained immediately the reason why he was late 9 years in making his report. When he finally ws able to say his reason it was the most incredulois reason of any Sheriff who had been doing auction for 16 years.
First he claimed he made the garnishment at the same time the writ of Execution was released which is unusul be ause the defendant Basa, is given under Rules of Court to respond to the Writ before Garnishment.
Second he claimed he did not publish nd report to SES and checked the numbers of stock certificates because he did not know.
3. He did not know Cristina was married to Justice Corona and he did not know that Carla was their daughter. In public auctions the buyer has to submit applications to participate and identifications are always requested from the auction participants and guaranteed in the ID of Carla the middle name of Corona was written.
4. Sheriff did not handle themoney, did not receive his Commission and most interesting, the government did not get a fee from the auction which is almost entirely impossible if the auction did go to usual channel thru ordinary clerks working in the Sheriff office. The City of Sheriff office must collect a fee from the Public Auction. That is standard practice in every legitimate auction. The sale must be recorded in the books of the day.
The reason given by Sheriff Binar was that the lawyers of Cristina told him they wanted to levy more properties but they did not go back to him anymore. Lawyers could not dictate to the Sheriff what to levy; the Sheriff has to report to the Judge who issued the writ and and the proceeds from the auction so that further levy could be instituted by the Sheriff but not from the order of the lawyers of the Plaintiff. If they wanted to levy again they should file another Writ specifying the new property to be levied.
The fraudulent documents were manufactured early this year under duress from CJ Corona because the Sheriff was under the Judiciary. He was promised something or bribed to be the patsy of the fraud.he was told that Coronas had to prove was there was a sale and it does not matter anyway because the shares could not be transferred to Carla so they remain the property of BGE. The Sheriff ws duped by the Corona and his lawyers that is why when the Prosecution pointed out that he could be sued by the Basas and they could claim from him Restitution from any losses the Basas incurred, check the video again and his faced was very much surprised which prompted Cuevas and Roy to intervene and distracted the Prosecution on his reading of this particular remedy against the Sheriff.
The Sheriff is not off the hook. The Basas could sue him because it is only now that it was discovered that he conducted a fraudulent documentation of a fake public auction.
There are two ways to prove the Sheriff’s guilt:
1. Give him a Lie detector test and subject the paper and of the original certificate of sale and listing in the book of the auction. They will be proof that their manufacturing dates were later than 2003.
The Basas should sue the Sheriff and attach Sheriff any of his properties and pensions from the government if they win their case.
Teach Sheriff Bisnar a lesson for lying that he does not collect his 4% Sheriff Commission. He should be excommunicated from his church and his neighbors should shame his family.
jorge bernas says
@ Johnny Lin,
Sa mga lumabas na kahihiyan/baho tungkol sa pagwitness ni sherrif bisnar ay katakot takot na sisihan ang matatanggap nang mga gagong abogago mula sa thief justice at katakot takot na sisihan din magaganap mula kay mrs.thief justice cristina corona papunta kay thief justice nato corona at mula sa kanilang anak na si carla corona castillo ay katakot tako na sisihan ang matatanggap nang mag asawang kawatan at mandurugas dahil sa pagnakaw nang kayamanan nang sariling kadugo/kapamilya…
Nakakahiya ang lumabas na baho/kahihiyan dahil buong mundo ay alam ang kawalanghiyaan ginawa nina mrs. thief justice cristina corona at fake thief justice nato corona at ang masakit ay dinamay pa ang mga anak at maging ang stupid court ay nalagay din sa kahihiyan dahil sa mga katiwaliang nangyayari sa stupid court kong saan lahat nang mga magnanakaw ay kinakampihan pa nang nasabing corte…
kontapilo says
It will not be a surprised Cuevas will no longer attend hearings with reason of fading health, he was the chief tactical lawyers and the their move to present the sheriff, it was all that matters cuevas will quit, adding to the fact that he was scolded by JPE on the first day of the resumption of the trial.As I have said, Mr Cuevas you should not have joined that NO WIN SITUATION case of CORONA,, maybe sir cuevas is now thinking of singing the song I SHOT THE SHERIFF,
Peter Rabbit says
“BUT I DID NOT SHOOT THE DEPUTY”…hehehehe
pilyo ka talaga.@kontapilo
Tama ka @[email protected] @kontapilo sabi nga ni @Leona (Comment #136.5) Corona’s “Abogado de campanilla de sorbetes” seemed to have taken the risk of presenting Bisnar hoping walang makakahalata.
As pointed out by Article8Jester (under comment 136.5 cited by Renato Pinokyo/James Din and earlier discussed by our Senator Johnny Lin and our Justice Baycas illegal/void ang mga epekto ng pag agaw ng stocks kay Jose Basa, Sister Flory’s brother.
To cover up sa very “big blunder” (per Article 8Jester discussion)ng kanilang Atorni agaton aka Judroy aka Jutay, they had to make an announcement na magtetestify si Corona. Then ipepresent nila yung mga taong close sa tatay/nanay/kapatid ni Pnoy noon kaya sinabi nilang idadamay nila si Pnoy.
I won’t be surprised if they will present Maceda or Tedibuy or as mentioned earlier “Noli Santos”
or Pnoy’s ex girlfriend,shooting buddy o kasabay sa Ateneo canteen ng nagaaral pa si Pnoy sa Ateneo. Bale they are still at their SHOCK AND AWE mentality ala 100 million bribe.
Kaso bawat move nila however they think brilliant always shocked them into shame. Indeed, the ways of the wicked shall perish. BTW thanks Attys Salvador and Roy for these brilliant ideas of presenting the Clerk Of Court and the Sheriff.
jorge bernas says
CONGRATULATION TO ALL THE MEMBERS OF THE PROSECUTION TEAM. GOOD JOB!!!
NALANTAD ANG BAHO/DUMI NANG MAG-ASAWANG MAGNANAKAW/MANDARAYA NA SI MRS THIEFTINA CORONA AT FAKE THIEF JUSTICE NATO CORONA AT PATI KASAKIMAN NANG MGA ANAK NALANTAD DIN?
SALAMAT DIN PRESIDING JUDGE JUAN PONCE ENRILE AT TINANGGAP MO ANG MGA TANONG NANG PROSECUTION TEAM…GANOON DI KAY SEN. DRILLON MAGANDA MGA TANONG NA GINAWA MO? PASOK LAHAT AT NAPAKALIWANAG NANG HUKOS FOCUS NILANG MAG ASAWANG KAWATAN…
HINDI SIGURO NAPAYUHAN NANG LOLO NILA NOON? KASI SABI NANG LOLO KO AY….
“HINDI BALING MAMALIMOS HUWAG LANG MAGNAKAW” KASI ANG MAGNAKAW AY NAKAKAHIYA AT NAKAKADIRI…PUWWEEE…
kontrapilo says
IT TAKES A THIEF TO CATCH A ROBBER, tama lang po, yung sheriff kasabwat nila lahat, kaya dapat kasuhan ang sheriff at baka magbago at mag state witness, o bumaliktad, palagay ko mahina ang tuhod ng sheriff, mukhang nerbyoso, not unless kung ang isinuhol sa kanya ay pang life time hanggang 3rd generations nya na, sigurado wala tayong mapiga sa sheriff,, ya kumanta na lang tayo ” I SHOT THE SHERIFF”
Victin luz says
ATTY, now that we know the WRIT OF EXECUTION and GARNISHMENT are VOID, how do we treat that 34m pesos to the SALN of Corona? the prosecution will do an accounting what amount is in the SALN and what amount will not be included in the SALN in comparison to his submitted 2001. To 2010 SALN or no more ACCOUNTING? How about other assets , liabilities the yearly networth of corona until 2010 or probably 2011 also. Are lawyers both from the prosecution and the defense will not go thisFAR?
Springwoodman says
If the hand of Corona can be established in the production of the fraudulent documents, is this not another nail on his coffin? And if the defense team was complicit in perpetuating this fraud, then they too should be held responsible.
FETER DHAMASO says
DISBARMENT FOR DEFENSE LAWYERS WHO PARTICIPATED ON PRESENTATION OF FRAUDULENT EVIDENCE?
Puwede kayang magfile ng disbarment sa mga defense lawyers na actively cooperated or creatively presented fraudulent testimonies tulad ng kila Bisnar and Clerk of court.
But then if Esguera is the counsel for Philippine Bar Association and Corona still lords it over sa SC (walang leave leave) how can this happen. Kaya ang lalakas ng loob magmanufacture ng ebidensya.
Feel nila na impune sila.
ISANG TAWAG KO LANG
Walang transparency, walang accountability,walang kasalanan-maraming pera.
FETER DHAMASO says
My mistake on Atty Esguerra, it should have been IBP tsaka resigned na siya as head of IBP.
It is Roan LIbarios who is a public Corona supporter. So I doubt it if any disbarment will happen.
Kakosa siya ni Tuko.
Leona says
Palitan muna yun siyam na justices sa SC bago mag disbar ng mga lawyers sa defense team! Kasi yun ang una muna ma disbar….si CJ at yun walowalo utso utso 8 8 8…!
AnuBayan! says
I think pwede mag-file ng disbarment cases sa mga lawyers who knowingly participated in the presentation of fraudulent evidence based on Section 20, PAragraph (d), Rule 138 of the Rules of Court, titled: Duties of attorneys, which states that:
“To employ, for the purpose of maintaining the causes confided to him, such means only as are consistent with truth and honor, and never seek to mislead the judge or any judicial officer by an artifice or false statement of fact or law.”
If an attorney willfully violated one of his duties, it is definitely a ground for disbarment.
eestaana says
@ Springwoodman,
“And if the defense team was complicit in perpetuating this fraud, then they too should be held responsible.”
Ano kaya ang stand ng IBP regarding these anomalies? Will they institute or initiate any disbarment proceedings to these abogagos of the formidable defense team? I just hope so. Or else where is justice here?
Leona says
Don’t hope about “ang stand ng IBP.” It doesn’t stand. It is most of the time lying down! No legs yun association na yun. Even if given prosthetic legs it won’t stand at all. Takpan mo na lang ng banig yan. Tuloy ang tulog yan…..zzzzzz zzzzz zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz!
eestaana says
@ Leona,
“Don’t hope about “ang stand ng IBP.” It doesn’t stand. It is most of the time lying down! No legs yun association na yun. Even if given prosthetic legs it won’t stand at all.”
No legs yun association e di marami pala sa mga miembro ay WALANG BAYAG..
Thanks for the information. Hindi dapat pala ako maniwala diyan sa IBP na iyan. Ok lang hindi naman ako lawyer ( di rin ako mangdurugas ng pera ng bayan ). I retired from a multinational company due to my sickness.
Eber Redi says
@eestaana
You’re one of the commenters I look forward reading dito. I hope you’re okay, I got apprehensive when you said something about your illness. Palakas ka, we need you here.
and if you are a mother, happy mother’s day. If you’re a father, you have a very nice mother who inculcated good values shown in your comments! God bless
jcc says
@ rafael, johnny lin, et.al..
The Basas (Sister Flory and AnnaBasa, representing the 90.7 per cent ownership of BGEI) can file a suit for reconveyance of property sold to the City of Manila by Cristina Corona because the sale is void ab initio, if not entirely sham.
If Johnny was correct that all the documents were antedated to make it appear that an actual auction was made in 2003 and there are papers to support the proceedings, these documents can be subjected to forensic examination to determine the age of execution. (if the auction was made in 2003 the ink absorption on the papers will show it). but is likely though that an actual auction papers (except the certificate of sale) was made in 2003, but it is void nonetheless the accused JMB, the majority stockholder whose stocks were auctioned, was already dead on August 29, 2002.
There are two school of thoughts on the effect of the death of the accused while a case was pending.
The civil case survives or dies with the accused. If the civil aspect proceeds from the crime or delict, the death of the accused prior to final judgment extinguished both the criminal liability and the civil liability. If the civil case does not arise from crime or delict, but on a contract, the civil aspect survives regardless of whether the accused dies before final judgment, but the estate or the administrator of the estate must be substittuted as a party.
The case against JBM and two others was libel and the civil indemnity of P400,000 plus attorney’s fee of P100,000 arose from that crime of libel. So the law is clear that in order that the civil aspect can survive, there must be a final judgment.
There was an MR of the decision of conviction against JBM et. al. filed by the counsel on Sept. 9, 2001, it was denied on Sept. 2, 2002. The counsel received the denial of the MR on Sept. 27, 2002 – the decision becomes final 15 days after receipt of denial – which is Oct. 12 ( 15 days from Sept. 27, 2002). Meantime, JBM was already dead as of Aug. 29, 2002.
On April 24, 2003, the sheriff levied and auctioned the shares of stocks, when all along, Cristina Corona has the proceeds of the property sold to the City of Manila in the amount of P34.7 million. The substantial amount of that proceeds belong to the deceased JBM. If the sheriff followed the Rules of Court, all he has to do is to levy the amount of P500,000.00 from the P34.7 million in the hands of Cristina. But instead the levy was made on the 90.7 per cent of the shares of JBM so they can own the entire assets of the BGEI.
On top of this, the levy/auction was not legally feasible as far as JMB is concerned because the decision was voided by the prior death of JMB.
http://www.lawphil.net/judjuris/juri1994/sep1994/gr_102007_1994.html
raissa says
Hey JCC,
the Basas are getting very good FREE legal advice from you.
My father would be proud of you.
Victin luz says
@ATTY jcc, How are you going to treat now the 34mpesos to the SALN of Corona, so as the dollar accounts if the defense is also invoking FCDA law a ground for Corona for not including on his SAlN. Enlighten us pls.
jcc says
@victin,
TJ Corona was consistent enough to treat the P34.7 million proceeds of the sale between the City of Manila and Cristina Corona/BGEI as belonging to BGEI. IN his SALNS it was reflected that he borrowed P11 M from BGEI, then liquidated the loan/cash advance over time.
His loan from BGEI, is an obtuse way of proving that he has assets that he did not declare; the loan repayments he made to liquidate the P11 M, but the more serious ramification of this backdoor deal is the moral fitness of the person whom the public (or GMA) entrusted with the duty of dispensing justice. While the flaw in the sale of BGEI property to the City of Manila and the surreptitious transfer of BGEI to his daughter may be collateral on the issue of the non-disclosure of assets of TJ Corona, yet they are central in the search of the people for his “soul.” For here is man in the corridors of power who pledged to render justice and interpret the law without fear or favor, but ran roughshod on his powerless relatives to covet their wealth and render them helpless and impoverished.
These imageries are hard to erase and will linger in the minds of the judges and the public!
@raissa, thanks.. :)
jcc says
@victin,
My take: TJ Corona will not appear. If he appears, this is a classic example of the statement: “Whom The Gods Wish To Destroy, They First Make Mad!” If he appears and invokes his right against self-incrimination and that the law prevents him from disclosing his dollars, that would be a grand spectacle… it is ridiculous for a man who appeared combative at the veranda of SC with his sycophant audience and making rounds at various TV stations shadow boxing, only to go to the SENATE with his tail wrapped around his balls… :)
eestaana says
@ jcc,
Sabi mo, ” only to go to the SENATE with his tail wrapped around his balls.”
Saan, saan mo iwrap ang tail ni Thief Justice…e..wala naman BAYAG iyan…..di ba? hehehehehehe
kontrapilo says
the impeachment trial is just like the GAMES OF THE GENERALS,,, it is the SPY who can eliminate every officer with the exception of the lowly soldier,,, Corona has all the assets to create his bunch of spies, and counter spies,, these are represented in the trial with his battery of lawyers, these lawyers can make and also break him, the lowly soldiers which has the most number of men in the game are represented by the common people, and only then when the people act, these bunch of powerful, highly technical, armed to the teeth spies will definitely succumb to the will of the Filipino people.. and that’s the way the game will end…
Leona says
What that good ‘ol fellow 8jester wrote about the auction, etc. is very clear. Plus the Basa lost their lawyer also at the time of the auction. That is depriving someone of his property without due process of law also. The Basa family should get that lady prosecutor Atty. Roxas as counsel soon. She’s more well versed on the points to be contented in court. And she’s good!
Victin luz says
@ Leona , tama ka dyan mam, walang kadudaduda kina ANA ang 34m , ngayon ang tanung ko nga sa mga lawyer natin ay ilalagay ba o hindi ilalagay dapat ni CORONA sa SALN nya? Kung dapat ilagay anung taon at magkano ang ilalagay sana ni Corona ? Buo BA o Hindi . How about other assets , like the dollar accounts, and other assets real and personnal na Hindi nakalagay?
jun 2 says
Nasa dugo lang yan!!! “Isang tawag”, “Isang sulat”, gorahhhh, areglado nah!!!
http://www.rappler.com/nation/80-special-coverage/5182-basa-guidote-defense’s-double-edged-sword
jun 2 says
Maiba lang po ng konti,,, mag papasukan na kasi dyan sa Pilipinas,,, ingat po sa mga gamit pang eskwela ng mga mag-aaral!!
http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=toxic%20products&source=web&cd=6&sqi=2&ved=0CJABEBYwBQ&url=http%3A%2F%2Farticles.latimes.com%2F2012%2Fapr%2F10%2Flocal%2Fla-me-health-nail-salons-20120410&ei=gSiuT8iaBoOc-wajjsn5CA&usg=AFQjCNHvgXmWR-TbPle8JTdNdIjNpq9GAA
http://icantbelieveitsnotademocracy.blogs.com/weblog/toxic_chinese_crap/
anonymous_coward says
@Martial Bonifacio 91.1
@eestaana 136.4.x.x
The airport melee of Philippine Daily Inquirer columnist and radio host Ramon Tulfo vs celebrity couple Raymart Santiago and Claudine Baretto are SMOKESCREEN para ilihis ang attencion ng mga Pinoy sa mga importanteng nagaganap pangkasalukoyan sa Pilipinas tulad yung kaso nina former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo at yung impeachment case ni Thief Justice.
The traditional media in the Philippines are all part of this play-acting.
jun 2 says
Kahit sa mga page ng main stream media, 2 and 7, madalang na silang maglabasa ng update, sa panatag island, maging sa impeachment na nagaganap ngayon!!! but let use internet to inform pilipino around the world, dahil kung di tayo kikilos, ang mangyayari sa atin ay parang, gasa strip, at ang judikatura naman, mananatiling marumi,,, inakala na nila kasi na patay ang ang issue after holy week, pero ang nangyari lalo itong nag sindi sa maraming pilipino, lalo na nang mabatid ang kaapihan ng mga Basa, lalo na si sor Flory!
jun 2 says
Si noli de castro nga ang mga pilipino pa ang tinatakot, na baka daw ihinto ang pag kuha ng china sa mga saging galing sa pinas,, anong klaseng naging vise pres, pa naman,, talagang puro dal dal land din naman,,, pwe!
Martial Bonifacio says
I pity those Fil-Chinese banana owners from davao. Ayaw nila kasing ibenta na lang sa Pilipinas ang mga saging, kasi mababa ang presyo compared to china but if you look at the situation right now. Mas malulugi (Fil-chinese banana businessman) sila because nilagay sa quarantine area yung mga cargo nila and accoring to news its already rotting. Hindi lang naman china ang consumer sa buong mundo, and i believe Philippines can stand on its own without china.
The question is kung ihinto ng Philippines lahat ng agriculture and natural mineral/ore shipments to china will their country survive? Mawawalan sila ng nickel, copper at uranium (used for ipad) along with food to support their people’s natural needs.
Leona says
Kung boycott ng produkto, dami ang China dito at sa USA! Shall we start it here and go on to convince customers in USA finally? Puede yun! Anyway, I have no plans now or a long time hereafter to buy a China-made product. Sigue, umpisahan natin!
anonymous_coward says
Kung magaling at may sariling paninindigan si Noli de Castro, noong vice-presidente siya, naging President of the Philippines na yan.
So don’t expect anything from him.
That episode in Philippines history only shows that he was only used to following or reading news scripts.
Leona says
si Noli “naging” presidente? Gekkkkkkkk! Puro “gabi at lagim” ng Bayan ang sasabihin yan!
amante_rador says
@anonymous
don’t worry, we here in OPM are intelligent people, we know clearly what the issue here is.
ala-JPE yan. hahaha…kahit na ano pang ibang isyu ang ilabas ay nasa una pa rin ang kay ATONG…
bukas ay sunday, walang off day dito. laging hot ang usapan ukol kay ATONG. kay atong UTOY…
Sam says
After reading a post from ABS-CBN (dated 05/11/2012 6:14 PM | Updated as of 05/12/2012 3:09 AM)
entitled “CJ: Palace, allies won’t stop until they crush me”
the whole article is again corona trying to show that he was being treated unjustly. eh, this is not new… but what seems to be interesting, are the reactions and comments. Before, there will be one or two who would be on corona’s side… but this time all of the comments are very spicy against corona.
if SWS will conduct a survey today, Its most likely corona will get a negative score.
kontapilo says
GMA, CORONA will be forgotten by history only if they will be tried and put into jail for the crime they had done to the Filipino people.. We have learned our lesson, we did allow marcos to flee, and to die in some other country, but look what happened, they return and again history is in the making,,, if we allow again corrupt leaders to flee and enjoy their life abroad, and wait for a friendly government to return… let us make history with law and order, let us be firm to send to jail corrupt leaders,m NO MERCY…LET’S DO IT..
Mel says
Be vigilant.
@kontapilo, help us by reminding us every now and then.
Tell and remind as many filipinos not to repeat history with GMA.
Mother and Son Marcoses in the Legislative, are one proof that many filipinos hasn’t learned their lessons.
docbebot says
Agree, Mel. Mapagmatyag…at maglahad nang saloobin ukol kay Corona dito sa Cyber Plaza Miranda!!!
Leona says
Filipino voters needs more elephant brains!
jorge bernas says
@ leona,
Tama, Madali lang talaga makalimot mga Botante natin ngayon dahil karamihan ay binenta ang sagradong BOTO sa maliit na halaga. At saka paano ka nga naman makakalimot eh kahit mga butihin nating OBISPO ay nagpagamit mabigyan lang nang SUV nang mga magnanakaw/sinungaling at mandaraya na nakaupo noon sa gobyerno…Ha ha ha…SUV SCANDAL nakakahiya at nakakadiri…
Sana magising na TAYONG lahat na pumili nang karapatdapat na OPISYAL/KANDIDATO na maka DIYOS at maka TAO at HUWAG nang ibenta ang SAGRADONG BOTO…
kontrapilo says
TAMA KA FREND, BISHOP SUV SCANDAL, baka may tanung; bakit naman pati mga bishop ay nadadamay sa usapan, pagkat the bishop and their teaching play the most important role in morality to our people,, corruption is immoral so much to say Corona seat as the highest judicial member of our supreme court, kailangan he must not be tainted with any form of immorality..a near perfect person so to speak.. Kaya me pabor ibalik ang DEATH PENALTY, let the criminals be punished according to the degree of his crime,, it is a deterrent to commit heinous crimes, but look what happened, the catholic religion is against with it, WHY? My guess is they want people to commit more crimes, they do not want to stop it, if corruption is punishable with death, do you think there will be corruption? May be yes, maybe none, but definitely there will be LESS;
Mel says
We have to remind one another, once in a while.
Especially the children or the next generation of leaders.
Some civic or gov’t leader can at least add this as part of the secondary curriculum.
johnny lin says
Mysteries in the private lives of Renato and Cristina Corona?
Despite professing that both came from a closely knitted family, did anyone wonder how come nobody among their relatives or immediate neighbors volunteered to publicly discuss their relationship with the Coronas. Or for that matter a very close trusted friend who is not a direct underling of CJ Corona like Midas.
Did any reporter stake out the house of the Coronas and try to interview their maids or driver(s)?
Coronas were never able to keep a driver in their household for longer than one year? He did not have a personal driver since the impeachment started resulting to the discovery of the media that Corona was ABUSING his power by using court employees to ferry his relative, Demetrio Vicente, who declined to be interviewed and discussed the personal life of Corona.
Coronas could hardly keep their domestic helpers because according to the grapevine Cristina is the poster model for “matapobre”.?
No sibling from either side would dare to defend the source of income of the Coronas publicly? WHY? Cristina has 7 and Renato has 2 siblings? The QC ancestral home of Renato was apparently his inheritance? Were the siblings victims of wealth-grabbing too like what happened to BGE?
Wonder if somebody would inquire from Meralco and Manila Water how the utilities of Coronas were paid? by him from personal money or from SC vouchers? Just curious based on whistleblowers rumblings?
Can’t help but wonder since the lawyers of Corona always talk about his love of his country, his profession, his family but never about his RELATIVES, FRIENDS and NEIGHBORS? These are relevant inquisitions towards the end of the trial. Corona character is in question but his lawyers never offered a witness as character reference at least in public interviews. Definitely, no one from his high school class would vouch for his scholastic honor. Mike Arroyo did try but who believes every word he says?
There is a saying that a “house becomes a home when relatives, neighbors and friends visit often”
Wonder if Coronas have a home?
it would not be impossible if the truth on facts of the mysteries are directly proportional to the truth on malfeasance.
Just curious, he he he
docbebot says
Either those in their employ and relatives are afraid or they’re in on it-nakikinabang. O naaawa lang ang mga katulong sa mga anak at apo nila? Usually, a disgruntled house help or business partner will sing on them.
docbebot says
Well, Ana Basa and Sister Flory pala in their accounts of the Coronas directly held a mirror to their faces. I’d be happy someone much closer suffers a Damascus moment and rat on them.
Ella says
Sa tingin ko, takot sila na magsalita … eh sino ba naman angd di matatakot eh Chief justice si corona … so wala silang kalaban laban kasi lahat ng kaso aakyat sa supreme court eh sigurado mananalo ang mga corona.
Newark2002 says
Mr. Johnny lin, you’re the best. Keep it up!
Newark2002 says
Hello Guys, nabasa nyo na ba ito? posted from ABS-CBN news “CJ Corona last stand”
by ztefertilizerscam4 on Sun, 05/13/2012 – 01:31
BETRAYAL OF PUBLIC, ESTE, MARITAL TRUST
Chief Justice Renato Corona wants to project the image that he is a loving husband to his wife, Cristina. The fact is, the Chief Justice has not only betrayed the public trust but most importantly, has betrayed his marital vow.
If the Chief Justice is man enough, He should admit the fact that he has a long-standing romantic relationship with a gentle lady named EVA with whom the Chief Justice has two (2) illegitimate sons. EVA also hails from Batangas and had her education from Assumption College just like his wife Cristina who also graduated earlier from the same school.
For Chief Justice Renato C. Corona not to mention his children with EVA as if they do not exist at all, is the highest form of ignominy and immorality that he can commit not only against his legitimate wife and family but against his oath as the highest magistrate of the land.
An inquiry into his relationship with EVA and his illegitimate children in connection with the on-going impeachment trial becomes extremely necessary in the light of the properties given by the Chief Justice to them. EVA, who has previously undergone a heart bypass operation, is known not to have worked from the time she had this romantic liaison with the Chief Justice nor does she have any known business of her own and yet, EVA is luxuriously living in the United States, together with her two (2) illegitimate children with the good Chief Justice.
The SALN of CJ Corona does not indicate any such properties.
And the reason for the frequent trips of CJ Corona to the United States, the latest of which was late last year, was to visit EVA and his children with her. That CJ Corona could afford to support the kind of luxurious lifestyle of EVA and her children in the U.S. is certainly for the Chief Justice to explain considering his small salary.
A simple investigation on the identity and circumstances of EVA can easily be done by a simple inquisition in Batangas as well as from the classmates, relatives and friends of EVA and of CJ Corona.
I know these facts because EVA is a relative of mine and it pains me immensely to see the Chief Justice professing his love for Cristina on nationwide television when he has confessed to my relative that he loves her far more than his wife. In fact, the Chief Justice made EVA believe that he was already separated from his wife Cristina. This probably explains why for the longest time, the Chief Justice has not reported in his SALN the fact of Cristina’s working in government and the fact that Cristina has not signed the SALNs as his wife.
Betrayal of public trust? This is a small matter than what the Chief Justice has done to his wife and family which constitutes the highest form of immoral act – BETRAYAL OF MARITAL TRUST.
Real name of CJ Corona’s girlfriend – Eva Auria; She hails from Rosario, Batangas; She graduated from Assumption College (not from Maryknoll College) She has two (2) sons with CJ Corona who are now in their teens; She is residing now in the United States. CJ Corona’s wife, Cristina, knows about the elicit relationship of her husband with Eva. To know more about the details on Eva, a simple investigation of Eva’s background in Rosario Batangas and Assumption College would elicit the necessary informations. Eva has plenty of properties in the US. They keep secret the exact address. The bagman of CJ Corona (who facilitates the transfer of funds from Corona to Eva is “Abet” who is a relative by affinity of Eva, being married to a stepsister of Eva. (The wife of Abet has the same mother as Eva but different Fathers). The biggest delivery to Eva involves the bribe money given by the Aguirres of Banco Filipino.
If the bank accounts of CJ Corona and his wife are opened, it will not be a surprise to see a running balance of not less than P200M. The bribe from the owner of the previously closed alone was a whopping P200M. And most money went to Eva through the Assistance of Abet.
The sons of Corona carry the name of the mother. But CJ Corona has openly recognized Ate Eva’s sons as his. A simple search at the NSO using “Renato C. Corona” would readily reveal this. For a time, when Eva was still in the Philippines, Renato and Eva lived as husband and wife. In fact, all our relatives in Rosario, Batangas and in the United States, knew the long-standing relationship. We all thought that Renato was already separated from Cristina. Some of Renato’s relatives in Tanuan, Batangas where he hailed from, know about this relationship. Some friends of Renato have seen the 2 sons and have been their ninongs. All our relatives thought really that Renato will never deny his relationship with Ate Eva. Sana hindi nya gagawin iyon kasi kawawa sya at ang mga bata.
jun 2 says
di nga, un eva and 2 siblings, dati na un ehh, kaso alang ebidensya, kasi nga di naman nilabas ung tunay na name, pero talaga lang ha,,, mehh ate evahhhh,,, pala talaga si korona ha!!!
eestaana says
@ Newark 2002,
“I know these facts because EVA is a relative of mine and it pains me immensely to see the Chief Justice professing his love for Cristina on nationwide television when he has confessed to my relative that he loves her far more than his wife. In fact, the Chief Justice made EVA believe that he was already separated from his wife Cristina. This probably explains why for the longest time, the Chief Justice has not reported in his SALN the fact of Cristina’s working in government and the fact that Cristina has not signed the SALNs as his wife.”
Thanks for this insightful revelation. In one of my earlier comments in Raissa’s previous blogs, I stated that the address where Renato usually stays while he is in USA might be a “lovers’ nest”. At that time I was hoping somebody from Renato’s hometown in Batangas would really “make a revelation” about his other love life. I think this is the first time that you wrote and even stated these facts here in Raissa’s blog. Late revelation it might be but then it tells a lot of what kind a person Renato Corona is made of. Your testimony might not be utilized by the prosecution team but at least as for us Filipinos we know now certainly that Renato Corona should not stay a minute longer as Chief Justice.
eestaana says
@ Newark 2002,
Sorry po, akala ikaw ang relative ni EVA iba pala. May iba pala whistle blower regarding Renato Corona’s other love life.
kabayan2020 says
Matagal n itong Eva na chizmiz, baka kaya trick ito ng defense???? Biglang lumalabas ito pag nasusukol sila eh…
johnny lin says
Recycled fake news so far yan Eva Auria, don’t believe it
eestaana says
@ johnny lin,
Thanks for your advice not to believe the love story of Thief Justice Corona. I was not aware of your comments regarding this affair you stated sometime in February pa. I became an avid reader of Raissa’s blogs sometime in March only. My apologies. Akala ko wala ng TROLLS dito pero nadali rin ko. The TROLLs utilize subtle ways of misleading readers. Again, thank you, idol.
Leona says
Were these the points intimatedly made by the late Mr. Jose Basa in his opposition paper which were ignored by GMA and the JBC when the CJ was being groomed for the SC? This is possibly one had there being more strict scrutiny in the screening process.
another raissafan says
Newark2002
Read Johnny Lin on this exact same story three months ago.
http://raissarobles.com/2012/02/12/ninez-seems-to-know-better-than-me-where-my-body-was/#comment-16320
That’s how good he is.
raissa says
I have an update but am too sleepy right now to finalize the edit.
Will update tomorrow. For sure.
It’s about Corona’s P11 M “cash advance”.
Sam says
@raissa
take your much needed rest, good night and sleep well :)
Chavydada says
@raissa # 171
Hikab, yawn, hikab…….
Tutulog na din ako.
HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY !
Newark2002 says
Ay Ms. Raissa, ano kaya ‘yan? Napuyat ako ng kaaabang, hanggang 1:30 am dito sa amin (CA-US time). Anyway, I can wait. Happy Mother’s Day pala sa iyo. I wish you good health and safety always. Take care! God bless you and your family and to the rest of the Plaza Miranda members. I really enjoy reading all your comments guys. It’s very informative, very funny at times, and gives me the thought that I always have company in my principle and love of country.
OMG! says
Hi Raissa
I just read from abs-cbn news with heading below and comment re Eva’s relative’s expose on her and renato corona’s relationship…. Please check.
Comment lin to heading ‘CJ Corona’s last stand’
Keep up the good work. I have been your silent reader until today.
God bless you, Alan and family.
Kind regards
OMG
raissa says
Thanks.
Chavydada says
WITNESS FOR DEFENSE
1. There is an Emmanuel Tiu “Noli” Santos who was with Ninoy’s Laban in the Batasan Elections.
2. Later, he established International Academy of Management and Economics (IAME), a business school based in Makati, which has been shutdown by CHED for gross and serious violations and continuous defiance and non-compliance of CHED’s policies, standards and guidelines.
3. IAME Chairman and CEO Santos declared that CHED abused IAME’s right to due process and that they would appeal to the SUPREME COURT.
4. IAME complained that Executive Secretary Ochoa violated IAME’s rights and “PUTTING PRESIDENT BENIGNO AQUINO TO THE BRINK OF AN IMPEACHABLE OFFENSE” for not hearing their appeal. The CHED is an independent entity and attached to the Office of the President for administrative purposes only.
5. Initially synpathetic to Gibo Teodoro in the 2010 presidential race, he supported NOYBI, as proclaimed by a banner at IAME’s building facade. (he is a Binay supporter)
6. Is he the same Emmanuel Santos who filed the 3rd complaint and is testifying as witness for the defense at Corona’s impeachment trial?
7. Is he a witness to prolong the impeachment court proceedings?
docbebot says
Interesting, Chavydada. This scofflaw appears to be the link between Corona and Binay. Hope Binay reads the writing on the wall and allow Noli who’ll take the hot seat to deviate from the script and improvise on any statement. Binay is playing his cards too close to his chest that even her spokesperson Margaux in her PDI letter to Harvey Keh is mum on. The scenario-builders in the crisis team are hard at work on Mike Arroyo’s dime. Now, who’s the link between GMA and Binay?
kontapilo says
Yan po ang bantayan natin, Binay is playing games, he knew very much Phil politics, he knew where are the money and who can assist him in 2016, you see how he plays with Marcoses, and tthe secret is with GMA, of course that what Mike is waiting for ,to have a friendly government so they can return ,,,
jocko 7874 says
@chavydada
I don’t know the players here… but do know..if have 11 that will take the stand before CJ is called to
“bare all,” and Mr. Cuevas gets to question all eleven…then in my humble opinion… CJ may not be called
to the witnesss stand “before Santa makes his appearance at SM”… and that will be November or December…me thinks this is just a “ploy” of the defense to string it out…with no end in site…unless Mr. Enrile puts a stop to it.
Chavydada says
#172 erratum
“5. Initially synpathetic” should read, “5. Initially sympathetic”
_____________________
http://www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Academy_of_Management_and_Economics
pinay710 says
HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY RAISSA!! AT SA LAHAT NG MGA NANAY NA NAGPAPAPAKASAKIT ALANG ALANG SA MGA ANAK! MGA NANAY NA BINIBIGYAN NG MAGANDANG ARAL AT PANGALAN ANG MGA ANAK. MALIGAYANG ARAW MGA NANAY!!
raissa says
Thank you.
Happy Mother’s Day to the mothers who come here.
chit navarro says
thank you Raissa….
and where’s our mother’s day gift? –
your post on the 11M cash advance?
been waiting…..
CHEERS!!!!
Kabayan2020 says
Excited n kmi Raissa… Bring it on. :D
johnny lin says
News from Defense Team
They met last night finalizing final details on how to craft defense on Foreign Currency Deposit regarding SALN
They have decided definitely to stick with their contention that Corona did not put his FCD in his SALN because of his respect to the law Secrecy of FCD. They will argue that the law prohibits the listing of FCD in SALN if the law has to be followed strictly.
They will put the blame on the writings of the Law on Senators and Congressmen who passed the law and also the subsequent Congress for not amending it. Emphasis will be put forth that it is being considered for amendment ALTHOUGH TRUTHFULLY the amendment is for conformity with the Anti-Money Laundering Law, not for SALN entry because the law on SALN has been clear all along to include all known assets. They will cite the TRO ruling of SC to defend their principle.
Since the Prosecutors are Representatives and the Impeachment jurors are Senators, they are indirectly attacking them and rightfully faulted for their incompetence.
Corona will throw the kitchen sink on Congress about FCD and at the same time appeal to the public that he is the victim of President Aquino”s vendetta for pushing the final verdict on Hacienda Luisita land distribution.
They will also stress that the current Ombudsman investigation was part of the deal in appointing Morales by PNoy to demonize Corona. They will cite that CJ is an impeachable official and during trial all other laws pertaining to bringing another impeachment complaint to him become moot until the current impeachment proceeding is finalized. Nothing in law is clear about this principle but they will insist and file a TRO if needed.
That is how desperate is Corona on his Alamo.
Kabayan2020 says
Pwede bang pagbabatukan na Lang yang mga lawyers na yan at si coronakot? Puro pang gagago ginagawang palusot eh. Yung appointment nya ipinilit din… So ibig ngang sabihin ng thief justice n lahat ng nakaw ng mga gov officials ay pwedeng convert n Lang sa dollar at ang ating hukuman ay wala ng magagawa.. Anong klaseng hustiya meron tayo? Sya pa nman ang pinuno….
Leona says
Who invented or created “lawyering?” This is the only specie that has been allowed to tell a lie (not under oath most of the time,) coach the client to a lie under oath (always) and never to tell the truth, so help ’em all gods! Maybe that’s why Jesus Christ (excuse me for saying this) didn’t want to get a lawyer during his trial. He would have been in a dilemma. We know He would have said “Get behind me Satan!”
kontrapilo says
There was a story about a LAWYER who died and his soul went to heaven,, When St peter heard about the incoming guest who was LAWYER, he ordered the angels and saints and all who are in heaven to prepare for a big celebrations to welcome the LAWYER,, There was a festive mood and all the souls in heaven were all delighted and happy to welcome the new member of heaven, only one man stood to question the celebrations, and he was a BISHOP when he died.. He went to see St. Peter and ask why did you have that kind of celebrations in welcoming the LAWYER, for when he entered heaven there was no such festival celebrations given to him.. AND St Peter told him,, MY SON YOU ARE A BISHOP WHEN YOU DIED, YOU ARE INDEED A GOOD MAN., WE ARE PROUD OF YOU FOR YOU HAVE DONE THE WILL OF THE FATHER.. but don’t get jealous my son, DO YOU KNOW THAT IN A 1,000 YEARS IT IS ONLY NOW THAT A LAWYER HAD ENTERED THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN,,
Leona says
Desperate, you say? Those defenses are somewhat very strongly marketable and cannot come out from desperation but from an advantageous position like at a higher elevation of the battleground.
In short, Mr. Corona will ask the SC that all laws and actions pointedly against him are unconstitutional. So, in the meantime, if by Monday someone for his good files the appropriate case, a PRO (permanent) or ERO (eternal) will be issued. What about the first “tro” issued, when is it going to be archived by the court? We find it in hibernation now though we don’t have winters here. Let us hope anyway that the trumphets of Joshua brings the walls of Jericho down!
But, congrats to you. That is a very good “anticipatory action” you gave for the CJ and his defense team. Now, you need to give also pointers how to destroy that action for the prosecution and the Senate to take.
We hope you can do it before 12 midnight tonight. Relax a bit a shot of expensive Brandy will be helpful.
baycas says
@Leona,
Johnny, midnight?
Leona says
hahaha! Johnny Brandy na lang….
AnuBayan! says
Mas maganda siguro kung Johnny, bravo. Hehe
Victin luz says
@Johnny,
ATTY. Johnny, now that the defense will insist on FCDA law as their ground for not posting Coronas dollar deposits in his SALN so as the void from the beginning 34m pesos BGEI sale of property,Do our lawyers still needs an ACCOUNTING SREADSHEETS showing Corona’s yearly ACTUAL NETWORTH as aginst those submitted SALN in the Senate? Or not needed anymore by the prosecution. Thanks for enlightenment.
johnny lin says
HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY TO ALL!
Springwoodman says
Exception: Cristina Corona.
Kabayan2020 says
Kay Cristina, happy Mandurugas day! Wish you more money … May God punish you and your hubby :)
Minda Nao says
PERSPECTIVE: ASAN NA TAYO?
PALUSOT NI TUKO SA MGA LAGAY? PATAGO/IN TRUST/BASA GUIDOTE
1. BASA GUIDOTE AS SOURCE: false, witnesses nabuko, ang naipakita: ISANG TAWAG KO LANG POWER
2. YUNG NAKITANG 34 m SA ACCOUNT HINDI PALA SA BASA GUIDOTE, saan galing? LAGAY
3. THE OTHER MILLION AMOUNTS? walang basehan,saan galing? LAGAY
4, THE DOLLAR ACCOUNTS? walang basehan so far, saan galing? LAGAY
CONCLUSION: BINIBENTA ANG MGA DECISION, PINAGKAKITAAN ANG POSITION SA SUPREME COURT
BAKIT: SC AS WALANG ACCOUNTABILITY, WALANG TRANSPARENCY WALANG KASALANAN
DEPENSA NI TUKO: APAT : 1. OO MAY PERA PERO PATAGO
2, OO MAY MALI ANG SALN CORRECTIBLE HINDI IMPEACHABLE
3. WALA NAMANG CHARGE OF ILLEGAL WEALTH SA COMPLAINT
4. IDADAMAY SI PNOY SA PAGBAGSAK VIA PNOY’S PREVIOUS CONTACTS
RESULTA SA BAYAN: BINABOY NI TUKO ANG HUDIKATURA, SINISIRA ANG BAYAN SA PAGUBOS
NG ORAS AT PERA NG BAYAN, PARA MAWALA ANG PANINGIN NG BAYAN
SA MAG ASAWANG LUMATIGO SA BAYAN SILA GLORIA AT FG
HINGI NG BAYAN SA MGA SENADOR: TAMA NA, SOBRA NA, ICONVICT NA
James Din says
Para makafocus na sa PARENTS OF ALL EVILS ANG MAG ASAWANG GLORIA AT FG.
Mas mabagsik ang laban sa kanila, kung malingat tayo, mawawala na lang sila sa paningin natin (at malamang bigyan ng chinese citizenship).
Elenita Fashionista says
HINIHINTAY ANG CONVICTION NI GLORIA PARA MAPLANTSA SA SUPREME COURT?
Bakit ayaw umalis ni Koronakut?
gb says
HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY…
rafael l. vidal says
Pare Johnny Lin # 174
You said “They have decided definitely to stick with their contention that corona did not put his FCD in his SALN because of his respect to the law Secrecy of FCD. They will argue that the law prohibits the listing of FCD in SALN if the law has to be followed strictly.”
I really hope they’ll do that – it’s tantamount to an admission that corona has undeclared dollar accounts apparently deposited by moneyed litigants who have cases in the SC.
HINDI BULAG AT BINGI ANG ATING MGA KAGALANG-GALANG NA MGA SENATOR-JUDGES. MABUHAY ANG KATOTOHANAN.
baycas says
Blame the confusion and the varied interpretations on filling up the SALN to past administration of the Civil Service Commission (CSC).
Unless the prosecution could unearth or be diligent enough to obtain CSC Memorandum Circulars (MCs) and/or SALN Manuals which were disseminated and widely known within the bureaucracy, Team Corona’s defensive strategy relative to FCDUs and SALNs may be a STRONG ARGUMENT.
As I said, Corona is not singular on the the above-quoted reasoning because others ALSO believed in such a notion however absurd it may seem (considering that it is contrary to the spirit of the SALN Law).
This is another contentious issue to be tackled by the Senate Impeachment Court [sic] because it was already part of the Journal of the impeachment trial when Roy advanced that line of reasoning.
I will just copy-paste an item present in the 2008 SALN Manual on page 21 (web link provided at Comment No. 84 below) for everyone’s information:
baycas says
In Pilipino (on page 24)…
Victin luz says
@baycas,
IMPLIEDLY ( naiintindihan namin po iyan ATTY baycas ) to comply with the spirit of the SALN law and in order to check your NETWORTH in your SALN yearly if you have an un explained acquired and posted wealth.TRANSPARENCY po diba pag diI nakalagay ang dollar hiindi mo alam na nagpayaman ang isang emplyado. Ang gustong malaman ng sambayanan ay How are you lawyers in our group now treat the 34m BGEI payments to Cristina in connection to the SALN of CORONA especially in his year end NETWORTH. Also the difference in pesos of Coronas undervalued property , how do lawyers like you treat those things especially in your memoranda or trial briefs. NO NEED of detailed computations BA?
baycas says
The P34+M, for a time, was Renato’s (This was during the time he filed his SALNs.). This is evidenced by the peso bank accounts under hs name but was hastily withdrawn in December only to be re-deposited possibly in FCDUs.
The money, Cuevas et al said, was not Renato’s as it was actually BGEI’s. (This is akin to gloria’s bright boy who said during the Garcigate that “it was the President’s voice but she was not the one speaking”.
)The defense established that BGEI has funds to the tune of p34+M — proceeds from the BGEI property sale. They also established that BGEI is Carla’s and, as evidenced by Renato’s SALN, Cristina has business interest with BGEI. I believe there was not yet a connection of BGEI money to Renato’s closed peso bank accounts. This was overtaken by events as regards the $10M.
Now, going back to the highlighted phrase of my second statement here…
Most likely the P34+M was re-deposited in FCDUs. Here, an “educated” guess will tell us that the FCDUs are still UNDER THE NAME of Renato C. Corona and/or Cristina R. Corona knowing fully well that FCD Secrecy Law IS the safety measure. They will not be able to deposit the money as an “in-trust-for-BGEI” account/s (Read Comment No. 159.1 below with regard to TITFs.).
It was NOT actually a “48-hour continuance” because the continuance really is way beyond five days. The Supreme Court already decided on a “continuance” when they postponed the final decision on the FCD TRO granted the PSB to June 26, 2012.
That will give ample time for Team Corona to deflect attention to P.Noy et al — how they conspired to remove the Chief Justice from office since Day 1 of Renato’s incumbency.
Allies of Renato at the SC maintained the secrecy of Renato’s bank accounts. Who would dare unlawfully disclose any detail of a secret thing in open court before June 26?
Unless the Senate in their caucus tomorrow will re-vote whether to defy or not the FCD TRO, Renato’s bank accounts are as secret as the Supreme Court justices’ SALNs.
Or, better if Renato C. Corona will just surrender and divulge his FCD accounts AND answer all questions propounded to him…in open court.
This is a fitting gesture of a Chief Justice of the Supreme Court able to defend the Judiciary even if it will mean “death” to him!
Renato Pinokyo says
Very well said @ Baycas! @Johnny Lin!
To enrich the discussion, I’m also sharing another great analysis from our friend Article 8 Jester
in 2 parts. Another nice read for a Sunday morning in Manila, evening here in the east coast
http://article8jester.blog.com/2012/05/10/di-nga/
(FIRST PART)
Di nga?!
Posted: 10th May 2012 by Article VIII Jester in Impeachment, Renato Corona
4
And when we all thought that the Defense can do no worse …well, think again.
Chief Justice Renato Corona claims to be excellence personified. He claims to be an excellence student, capping his sterling academic with a colorful doctorate from the University of Santo Tomas. He claims to have a sterling professional career, culminating in his appointment as top magistrate of the Judiciary. Wow, heavy!
But here’s the catch. (And please don;t tell this to anyone else)
[in a whispering voice] He doesn’t know how to accomplish his Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth (SALN).
Could you believe that?!
I couldn’t believe it either.
…until the Defense said so.
And, we have to believe his lawyers, right?!
They wouldn’t dig a hole for their client, right?!
Well…
That doesn’t appear to be the case here.
As Manong Johnny declared on several instances already: what matters with respect to addressing the allegations under Article II of the Impeachment Complaint is whether Corona made false declarations in his SALNs.
However, the Defense keeps on pointing out that the commission on unintentional mistakes in accomplishing his SALNs does not warrant Corona’s impeachment.
Not assisted by accountant daw. (As the Defense claimed last Monday, Day 35.)
I’ll say again what I said before, the Defense thinks that we’re a bunch of retards.
The Defense would like to make us believe that an honor student (at least Corona claims to be one) who has a college degree (BA), law degree (LLM), business degree (MBA), master of laws degree (LLM) and doctor of laws degree (LLD), as well as a sprinkling of honorary degrees on the side, is so clueless that he cannot accomplish his SALN completely?
Moreover, the Defense is invoking that instead of filing the impeachment case, Corona should have instead been afforded the review/compliance procedure under Republic Act No. 6713 (Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees).
Corona cannot feign ignorance of the requirements of law with respect to the truthful and detailed filing of his SALNs
Section 10 of the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees provides for the review and compliance procedure whereby the head of office is required to determine, among others, the matters relating to the timely and correct filing of SALNs, thus:
SECTION 10. Review and Compliance Procedure. — (a) The designated Committees of both Houses of the Congress shall establish procedures for the review of statements to determine whether said statements which have been submitted on time, are complete, and are in proper form. In the event a determination is made that a statement is not so filed, the appropriate Committee shall so inform the reporting individual and direct him to take the necessary corrective action.
(b) In order to carry out their responsibilities under this Act, the designated Committees of both Houses of Congress shall have the power within their respective jurisdictions, to render any opinion interpreting this Act, in writing, to persons covered by this Act, subject in each instance to the approval by affirmative vote of the majority of the particular House concerned.
The individual to whom an opinion is rendered, and any other individual involved in a similar factual situation, and who, after issuance of the opinion acts in good faith in accordance with it shall not be subject to any sanction provided in this Act.
(c) The heads of other offices shall perform the duties stated in subsections (a) and (b) hereof insofar as their respective offices are concerned, subject to the approval of the Secretary of Justice, in the case of the Executive Department and the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, in the case of the Judicial Department. [Emphasis supplied]
Ordinarily, under said provision, a government official must be informed about any alleged omission in the filing of his/her SALN and be directed to take the necessary corrective action. However, said provision does not apply to Corona.
Corona, as Head of the Judiciary, and as primus inter pares, is supposed to know the requirements in connection with the timely and proper filing of SALNs and the obligations of each government official in relation thereto. This negates the applicability of the law’s review and corrective processes which in the end fall back to no one else but him. Thus, he need not be reminded of the requirements of law and his need to comply therewith in the first instance. In fact, being the reviewing authority, his SALNs should be height of perfect compliance with law. However, that is far from reality considering that a review of his SALNs reveal a clear pattern of nondisclosure, false declarations and undervaluation, as well as the desperate attempt to hide behind the veil of a SC Resolution restricting access to SALNs had it not been for the coercive and compulsory processes of the Impeachment Court.
Even as the Defense repeatedly belittles the omissions and undervaluation in Corona’s SALNs on the theory that they can simply be corrected, what cannot be denied is that these glaring material omissions and undervaluation were done by Corona under oath and as such constitutes the crime of Perjury. It is likewise inconsequential to argue and admit that Corona was not assisted by an accountant in the preparation of his SALNs. This only shows that Corona and the Defense are growing more desperate as the Impeachment Trial proceeds. In the end, it is clear that Corona cannot remain as Chief Justice for making such omissions and undervaluation under oath in his SALNs. (continue below for the 2nd part)
Renato Pinokyo says
2nd part DI NGA article by article 8 Jester
http://article8jester.blog.com/2012/05/10/di-nga/
Moreover, two (2) crucial factors argue against the defense that the false declarations in his SALNs were merely unintentional and/or simple mistakes.
First, Corona has a deep understanding of tax and commercial law. In fact, his SC profile proudly trumpets and enumerates the following qualifications/achievements on his part:
He pursued the Master of Business Administration course (without thesis) at the Ateneo Professional Schools;
In 1981, he was accepted to the Master of Laws program in Harvard Law School where he focused on foreign investment policies and the regulation of corporate and financial institutions. He was conferred the LL.M. degree by Harvard Law School in 1982;
He served as special counsel at the Development Bank of the Philippines;
He became senior vice-president and general counsel of the Commercial Bank of Manila;
He became a senior officer of the Tax and Corporate Counseling Group of the Tax Division of SGV & Co.; and
He served as a member of the faculty of the Ateneo Law School for 17 years, teaching Commercial Law, Taxation and Corporation Law, the same subjects that became the focus of his many articles and columns in several newspapers (e.g., “Tax Corner”, Manila Chronicle).
Second, in the Supreme Court’s landmark ruling in Republic vs. Sandiganbayan, G.R. No. 152154, 15 July 2003, a decision penned by Corona himself, he exhaustively discussed how to use SALNs and Income Tax Returns (ITRs) to compute the total assets of an individual and how to determine the amount of alleged ill-gotten wealth in comparison with said total assets.
In said case, Corona lists down the elements that must concur for the prima facie presumption under law to apply:
The offender is a public officer or employee;
He must have acquired a considerable amount of money or property during his incumbency; and
Said amount is manifestly out of proportion to his salary as such public officer or employee and to his other lawful income and the income from legitimately acquired property.
In view of the foregoing requirements under law, Corona clearly states the following with respect to the issue of prima facie presumption of ill-gotten wealth:
The third requirement is met if it can be shown that such assets, money or property is manifestly out of proportion to the public officer’s salary and his other lawful income. It is the proof of this third element that is crucial in determining whether a prima facie presumption has been established.
xxx
Indeed, the burden of proof was on the respondents to dispute this presumption and show by clear and convincing evidence that the Swiss deposits were lawfully acquired and that they had other legitimate sources of income. A presumption is prima facie proof of the fact presumed and, unless the fact thus prima facie established by legal presumption is disproved, it must stand as proved.
More importantly, as to the manner of addressing allegations of ill-gotten wealth, Corona demanded that respondents state the ultimate facts surrounding the lawful manner or mode of acquisition of the subject funds:
On the part of Mrs. Marcos, she claimed that the funds were lawfully acquired. However, she failed to particularly state the ultimate facts surrounding the lawful manner or mode of acquisition of the subject funds. Simply put, she merely stated in her answer with the other respondents that the funds were “lawfully acquired” without detailing how exactly these funds were supposedly acquired legally by them. Even in this case before us, her assertion that the funds were lawfully acquired remains bare and unaccompanied by any factual support which can prove, by the presentation of evidence at a hearing, that indeed the funds were acquired legitimately by the Marcos family.
Respondents’ denials in their answer at the Sandiganbayan were based on their alleged lack of knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of the allegations of the petition.
It is true that one of the modes of specific denial under the rules is a denial through a statement that the defendant is without knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of the material averment in the complaint. The question, however, is whether the kind of denial in respondents’ answer qualifies as the specific denial called for by the rules. We do not think so. In Morales vs. Court of Appeals, 30 this Court ruled that if an allegation directly and specifically charges a party with having done, performed or committed a particular act which the latter did not in fact do, perform or commit, a categorical and express denial must be made.
Here, despite the serious and specific allegations against them, the Marcoses responded by simply saying that they had no knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of such allegations. Such a general, self-serving claim of ignorance of the facts alleged in the petition for forfeiture was insufficient to raise an issue. Respondent Marcoses should have positively stated how it was that they were supposedly ignorant of the facts alleged.
In said case, Corona went on to analyze the legitimate income, financial standing and net worth of the respondents, eventually concluding after much study that the Marcoses failed to justify the lawful nature of the acquisition of their assets.
Thus, Corona cannot feign ignorance of the requirements of law with respect to the truthful and detailed preparation and filing of his SALNs. To insist on his ignorance, as is now desperately employed by the Defense, is absurd, preposterous and ridiculous.
For instance, it should be emphasized that in his SALN for 2010, Corona indicated that he supposedly sold two (2) properties (La Vista and Ayala Heights) to pay for Bonifacio Ridge and Bellagio. However, in spite of the desperate attempts of the Defense, documents would clearly show that Bonifacio Ridge was fully paid for as early as 2004 and Bellagio in 2009.
In particular, evidence shows that Bonifacio Ridge was paid for in two (2) installments, within a month’s time in 2004. In the same manner, evidence shows that Bellagio was paid for in three (3) installments (from 2008 to 2009) while McKinley Hill was paid for in 27 installments (from 2006 to 2008). This only goes to show that Corona and his wife are very liquid, contrary to what appears in Corona’s SALN and income records. Clearly, Corona is liable for misrepresenting these facts or not disclosing them at all in his SALNs.
As previously noted, under the SC’s Alpha List, Corona’s declared gross income was significantly less than a million pesos annually. In the same manner, his wife’s lawful income was not significantly more than that of his husband. However, Corona’s net worth as declared in his 2010 SALN is P22,938,980.00, the bulk of which consists of real properties amounting to P18,438,980.00 (which figure is severely undervalued). It is clear, therefore, that Corona’s lawful income cannot support the purchase of the properties that were presented by the Prosecution.
Moreover, in relation to the continuation of testimony on the sale of the BGEI Property, the Prosecution has previously presented evidence showing that funds amounting to P37,657,172.69 were transferred on 12 December 2011 to Philippine Savings Bank (PSBank) Peso Account No. 089-101005094 under Corona’s name from PSBank Peso Account Nos. 089-121019593, 089-121021681 and 089-121023848. These were supposedly funds of BGEI from the sale of the BGEI Property.
If this is true, then Corona should have disclosed his and his wife’s equity interests in BGEI in his SALNs, considering that Cristina Corona even claims to be the owner of nearly all the shares of BGEI. Thus, the facts relating to the alleged BGEI funds are material to prove nondisclosure of assets. Thus, the funds involving the sale of the BGEI Property and its non-disclosure in Corona’s SALNs are indicative of the lack of truthfulness thereof, which go into the allegations under Article II and paragraph 2.3 of the Impeachment Complaint because his lawful income could not have allowed him to accumulate that much wealth by June 2011 and, for that matter, in any given year.
In view of the evidence presented by the Prosecution, and as again previously noted, the properties under Corona’s name, as well as that of his wife and children – which are grossly and manifestly disproportionate to his lawful income – are presumed under law to have been ill-gotten. As such, it is incumbent upon him to discharge his burden of evidence to prove that the properties in question were acquired through lawful means.
Considering his background as a tax and corporate law practitioner before the was appointed to public office, ignorance is the last thing Corona may invoke in connection with his failure to comply with the requirements of law with respect to the truthful and detailed preparation and filing of his SALNs.
In the end, a review of Corona’s SALNs reveals that the material omissions, undervaluation and non-disclosure are not mere good faith errors that may be corrected. The discrepancies are too glaring to be passed off by the Defense as mere errors. What is clear, at this point, is that there is already a clear pattern of nondisclosure, false declarations and undervaluation, as seen from a mere comparison of Corona’s own tax filings and his SALNs.
Nice try, Chief.
Nice try, counsel.
…but we’re not stupid.
Victin luz says
@ATTY Renato,
I read the comments of Jester and very clear on his explanation the prosecution will get on to Corona ( conviction ) .So in your memoranda to be submitted to SIC for their review and finally to determine what vote the Senators are going to cast…… it will not be accompanied or incorporated by ACCOUNTING SREADSHEETS ( detailed mathematical computation from 2002 to 2010 SALN …….ASSESTS- LIABILITIES = NETWORTH ) Showing actual yearly networth as against those submitted by CORONA. Your memoranda is just like jester did ATTY renato, will suffice.
Kung iyan ang talagang ginagawa ng lawyer’s we have to believe on you. KAYA LANG papano kung mag submit ng DEFENSE ng DETAILED Memoranda incorporating an ACCOUNTING SPREADSHEETS, e ang sinasabi nga natin ATTY ay MGA senador might vote according to political affiliation, pweding acquittal ang iboto nila because of correct mathematical computation na nakalatag sa harapan nila, kumpara sa atin na TOTOO nga pero walang makita sa Memoranda mo na sum total na nakalagay sa SALN ni Corona.
At any rate if you being a lawyer believes that the memoranda to be presented by the prosecution in a narrative explanation with a little accounting on it will suffice , then we have to believe you ATTY. thanks.
Victin luz says
ATTY Kaya kulang ginigiit Ito kasi remember the defense are planning to present an FORENSIC EXPERT WITNESS di po ba. Ngayon news comes out in the Daily’s. that their position is to exert or declare the CONFIDENTIALITY of the DOLLAR DEPOSITS that is why Corona did not include his dollars in the SALN.
Without this FORENSIC EXPERT going to the witness stand, they might submit a DETAILED ACCOUNTING SPREADSHEETS with DETAILED NARRATIVE defense for every figures alleged not to be included and inclusions in Corona’s SALN, in their MEMORANDA. I think they will do this.
KhoyPee says
@ victin luz….I read your several comments calling for a summary of the computed saln based on the presented evidences during the impeachment proceedings and the summary of the sources and application of funds ( as we call it in accounting)…I already prepared the schedules but will email them direct to raissa tonight… Will try to give some explanations about the accounts and I will request that it be given to some for review and comments…hope that can guide us in showing the extent of cj’s under declaration of assets…rest assured that I will still keep track of the proceedings so that any addition or deduction to the assets will be properly monitored…good luck to us all CPM!
Victin luz says
@khoypee,
Thanks , prosecution really needs that khoypee.
KhoyPee says
Sent them copies already, for reference. Now, will try to update because of the ten million dollars revelation! We shall always be on guard…..
baycas says
It appears that the defense were able to frame an impeachable offense equivalent to a high crime.
Senators, it also appears as led by MDS, equated an impeachable offense to a high crime. They thought of what the “eminent” Fr. Bernas had preached time and again in his books and newspaper columns.
Trivializing SALNs is the key to Corona’s exoneration, that is what the defense’s strategy is all about (Read “Trivial, trivial” downstairs of this long thread.). Without a high crime, Corona will be acquitted!
That’s the main trouble when Bernas, Santiago, Cuevas, etc. did not consider that BETRAYAL OF PUBLIC TRUST will NOT ALWAYS point to a high crime. This is evidenced by Constitutional Commissioners discussion on “betrayal of public trust”.
ConCom member Nolledo specified that even “obstruction of justice” which we all consider a crime OTHER THAN a high crime can be a ground for impeachment due to BETRAYAL OF PUBLIC TRUST. “Low” offenses may still be an impeachable offense.
U.S.’s “High crimes and Misdemeanors” is somewhat similar to PHL’s “High crimes, or Betrayal of public trust” meaning impeachable offenses range from misconducts and misbehaviors to high crimes.
Senators may…and I say there’s a good chance…
Senators may ONLY consider a high crime committed by Corona for him to be removed from office.
I wonder how the prosecution phrased and argued their Memorandum as regards what an Impeachable Offense constitutes. Judging from the craftsmanship of the AOIs, I would not be faulted to expect a haphazardly done Memorandum that will eventually work in favor of the accused…
Victin luz says
@baycas,
Remember Enrile told them to read the book written by Raoul Berger about impeachment ( ako mga po ATTY nagpabili ako sa anak ko just to read it, hindi naman ako lawyer ) and every Senator have good lawyers in their roster , they could not missed the real meaning of MISDEMEANOR in an impeachment proceedings. One of the blogger here also stated that ” The Composition of the Senate to Such Period and in the Exigencies of the Time ” reflects what crimes are impeachable.
So if we believe these theory, then if the crime of President Clinton ” BLOW JOB CONTROVERSY ” happens during earliest century ex. 1700AD ,he could have been convicted because of moral values. PAANO TAYO NGAYON KAY CORONA. sa akin convicted sya ATTY.
baycas says
@Victin luz,
On the “exigencies of the time”, you quoted my Comment No. 147.
Conviction is still up to the senators. However, confining impeachable offenses to high crimes as preached by Bernas and pontificated by Santiago at the Senate is unacceptable.
If the senators will live up to expectations as representatives of the people, wrong notions such as the ones advanced by Cuevas et al must not be perpetuated.
Misplaced interpretation of the letter and spirit of the Constitution has no room in Corona’s impeachment trial. A wrong verdict will mean a wrong definition of “betrayal of public trust” that will surely haunt us in years to come when another evildoer must be impeached.
Incidentally, readers of this blog (and other political blogs, for that matter) know that I am NOT a lawyer and I request everyone to just address me with my handle.
We are all equals here…perceived trolls included.
Victin luz says
@baycas,
Para sa akin abogado kanarin , wala Lang formal education, because you can argue in an eloquent but righteous way sir. Saludo ako sa iyo. About the theory we are discussing ” totoo iyan ”
The composition of the LORDS\ COMMONS and the exigencies of time determines the impeachable offense during mediaval time. The kings nearest kin can be convicted of small amount of gold taken into the Kings coffers but on some other times bigger amount of gold taken by kings kin are acquitted.
Of course with different facts but the logic is there. ATTY baycas kapadin. Basta kahit ano pa man Convicted si Corona. THNKS
jcc says
the constitutional commission considers “betrayal of public trust” as a catch-all provision. any other offense that is reprehensible enought to the conscience is covered by this provision. so the yardstick is one’s conscience.
regarding betrayal of public trust, i have my own interpretation of it.
http://jcc34.wordpress.com/2012/01/26/senator-santiago-is-an-embarassment-to-the-world-court/
Victin luz says
@jcc,
I agree parekoy
concerned citizen says
Just updated news fromPhilstar:
Ombudsman should junk baseless raps vs justices, says SC ruling
By Edu Punay (The Philippine Star) Updated May 13, 2012 12:00 AM Comments (12) View comments
Manila, Philippines – Has Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales already forgotten a Supreme Court (SC) decision that she signed in 2010 when she was still associate justice, which held that criminal complaints against impeachable officials not supported by ample proof should have no place for investigation in the anti-graft office?
In the ruling promulgated on March 2, 2010, the high court had laid down the limits of the power of the Office of the Ombudsman to investigate impeachable officers under section 22 of Republic Act No. 6770 (Ombudsman Act).
“If a complaint against an impeachable officer is unwarranted for lack of legal basis and for clear misapplication of law and jurisprudence, the Ombudsman should spare these officers from the harassment of an unjustified investigation,” stated the ruling obtained by The STAR.
The high court stressed that the anti-graft office should dismiss outright criminal complaints against justices that fail to allege prima facie case or those filed without supporting proof.
It cited a July 31, 2003 memorandum by then Ombudsman Simeon Marcelo, who directed that all complaints against judges and other members of the judiciary be immediately dismissed and referred to the high tribunal for appropriate action.
The SC was ruling on the graft charges filed by lawyer Oliver Lozano against former Chief Justice Hilario Davide Jr. and former Associate Justice Ma. Alicia Austria-Martinez, which the Ombudsman eventually dismissed.
“For the criminal complaint’s fatal omissions and resultant failure to allege a prima facie case, it rightfully deserves immediate dismissal,” it held then.
The court also stressed: “Only after removal can they (justices) be criminally proceeded against for their transgressions. While in office and thereafter, and for their official acts that do not constitute impeachable offenses, recourses against them and their liabilities therefore are as defined in the above rulings.”
In this case, the SC turned the tables on Lozano and started administrative investigation against him for “open disregard of the plain terms of the Constitution and the applicable laws and jurisprudence, and their misuse and misrepresentation of constitutional provisions in their criminal complaint before the Office of the Ombudsman.”
Morales concurred in this per curiam ruling (jointly written by justices during deliberations).
Now as ombudsman, Morales recently started an investigation on complaints filed by several groups accusing embattled Chief Justice Renato Corona of owning $10-million deposits even without ample evidence.
“Has Justice Morales already forgotten about this decision? The Senate should review her on this when she testifies in the impeachment trial,” commented an SC official who refused to be named.
The complainants – Akbayan party-list Rep. Walden Bello, former Rep. Risa Hontiveros, Emmanuel Tiu Santos, and Harvey Keh – already reportedly denied specifying the amount alleged against Corona.
They said they never mentioned $10 million in their complaints.
The Chief Justice already denied the allegation and even dared Morales to explain where she got the amount.
SC spokesman Midas Marquez also said earlier that the high court may act on the issue and rule on the legality of the Ombudsman’s order should a petition be filed before it.
“That (order) can always be questioned before the SC on ground of grave abuse of discretion,” he stressed.
With this, he said there is a possibility that the high court might stop the investigation of the anti-graft body against Corona.
Morales was the only justice of the SC who opposed the appointment of Chief Justice Corona by former President and now Pampanga Rep. Gloria-Macapagal Arroyo during the 2010 election period. She was chosen by President Aquino to administer his inaugural oath and was appointed ombudsman last year.
She is the first cousin of Senior Justice Antonio Carpio, closest rival of Corona for the top judicial post in May 2010.
She has been summoned to appear in the impeachment trial of Corona before the Senate to explain her action.
Victin luz says
AMPLE PROOF. ………… UNWARRANTED………………………. If you have ample proof then it’s warranted.
There was a dollar accounts only that a TRO was issued by SC in respect to the FDA law so the detailed amounts are not available. 5 or 6 dollar accounts I believe are already ample proof for the OMBUDSMAN to investigate Corona’s Actions.
gtg says
tangin ang defense na lamang ang walang nakikitang prima facie evidence laban kay chief justice.
max says
In the meantime, while we are focusing on Corona and Morales face off, Arroyo and her team are testing the waters, exploring ways on how to get out of here.
Having her cried wolf earlier on, she cannot blame anyone if her “life-threatening” issue seems to be taken with some suspicion. Hopefully, people keep their eyes on the ball.
kontrapilo says
lot of technicalities , that’s the only way you can defend corona, lawyers are liars,, the thing that you have a dollar account in a bank and did not declare it ,, that’s it no amount of technicalities can support your defense, ginagago nyo laqng ang sarili nyo,, come to think they still question the jurisdiction of the ombudsman to investigate corona,, dapat sa inyo manahimik na lang, NO WIN SITUATION na kayo, kung edukado kayo you should know where and when to give up,,ano sabi ni ERAP hoy pare WEDER-WEDER LNG YAN… give up no need to defend corona anymore , anyway BAYAD NA KAYO,,,,
Den says
Nagsawa na daw ang mga Pilipino sa mga sama-samang pagkilos. Sa panahong kasalukuyan, dalawang grupo na lamang daw ang kumikilos laban o pabor sa mga isyu – ang mga bayarang hakot at yaong mga mayroong marubdob na paniniwala sa kanilang itinataguyod. Tapos na nga daw ang panahon na libo-libong mga tao ang magtitipon upang ipaalam sa mga kinauukulan ang kanilang mga saloobin. Nasaan na nga ba ang mga Pilipinong nagmamalasakit sa Inang Bayan?
Paano tayo humantong sa kalagayang ito? Namayagpag ang isang pamahalaan na walang patumanggang nilabag ang lahat ng mga batas at patakaran upang manatili sa kapangyarihan sa mahabang panahon. At sa panahong sila ay naluklok sa kapangyarihan ay tila walang patid ang pagkauhaw sa pagkamkam ng kayamanan. Hindi ba’t ilang taon lamang ang nakalilipas ay pinalayas natin ang isang diktador upang tayo makapamuhay na muli ng malaya at marangal? Sadya nga bang tayo ay mapagpatawad at madaling makalimot? Sadya nga bang matiisin ang mga Pilipino?
Naglaho na ang ating kakayahan na magalit sa mga katiwalian sa ating bayan. Ang mga maralita ay abala sa paghahanap ng pantawid-gutom sa araw-araw. Ang tanging mahalaga ay ang ngayon, at kung paano mabubuhay sa bawat araw. Ang kinabukasan ay isa lamang malayong panaginip na hindi na dapat pagtuunan ng pansin. Ang mga may-kaya naman ay natatakot sa kaguluhang maaring dala ng pagbabago. Bakit kailangan pang guluhin ang takbo ng buhay kung patuloy naman ang kanilang pag-unlad? Sa pagitan ng kawalang pag-asa ng mga maralita at ng kawalan ng pakialam ng mga umuunlad, ay umusbong at yumabong ang isang lipunan na manhid na sa katiwalian at pang-aabuso ng mga nasa pamahalaan.
Ngunit katulad ng isang mapagmahal na ina, ang bayan ay handang maghintay sa tamang panahon na mapagtatanto ng kanyang mga anak ang kabuktutang naglulugmok sa kanila sa kahirapan. Matatapos rin ang panahon ng pagtangis, ng pagkabulag sa mga katiwaliang nangyayari sa ating paligid. Sa bawat latay ng kasinungalingan ay hampas ng katotohanan ang ibabalik. Panahon na upang magalit muli, dahil sa ating pananahimik ay patuloy ang pagyurak sa lahat ng tagumpay na ipinaglaban ng ating mga bayani. Panahon na upang manindigan para sa bayan, at ibalik ang karangalan sa ating pamahalaan.
Ngayong araw ng mga ina, huwang nating kalimutan ang ating Inang Bayan. Kailangan niya tayo upang manindigan at ipaglaban ang katotohanan at katarungan laban sa mga tao na mas nanaisin pang malugmok ang buong sambayanan upang maipagtanggol lamang ang iilang nagtkasil sa bayan. Ang nagkakaisang sambayanan at hindi silang iilan ang may tangan ng isang magandang kinabukasan para sa Pilipinas.
docbebot says
Bilib naman ako sa sulat mo Den. Mabuhay ang Pilipino! Mabuhay ang mga inang Pilipino.
Pinoyparin says
Masarap basahin ang mga comments pero nakakataas ng blood pressure.
TINGIN KO MALAKI ANG PAG-ASA NA MAGKAROON NG PEOPLES POWER.
KAPAG TULUYANG NABABOY ANG ATING HUSTISYA. SAAN TATAKBO ANG TAONG BAYAN?
KUNG MAGIGING INUTILE ANG EXECUTIVE AT LEGISLATURE SA PAMBABABOY NG HUDIKATURA NI KORONAKUT AT PANDAK.
ANO ANG NATITIRANG HAKBANG NG TAONGBAYAN NA BINABABOY ? YOUR GUESS IS AS GOOD AS MINE AT PALAGAY KO SUSUPORTA LAHAT.
Pinoyparin says
Tama si @Den
walang natitirang hakbangin ang taumbayan sapagkat hindi kaya ni Pres Pnoy ang Kababuyan ni Koronakut sampu ng kanyang mga alepores sa korte suprema. ako ay naniniwala na unti unting nawawala ang mga natitirang sumusuporta sa kanya wala na halos marinig kina Joker arroyo dahil sa sobrang kasamaan na naipakita sa TAKE-OVER ng BGEI. kahit bata ay maiintindihan ang maniobra ng mag-inang KORONAKUT na di mangyayari kung wala ang ISANG TAWAG ni KORONAKUT.
WALANG SALITANG MAKAKATUGMA SA KASAMAAN NG PAMILYA CORANA SA GINAWA NILA SA MGA TITO,TITA AT MGA PINSANG-BUO NI DEMONYANG CRISTINA. TUNAY NA MGA KAMPON NG KASAMAAN.
LALONG NAGWAWALA ANG KALOOBAN NG BAWAT MATINONG PILIPINO NA NAABOT NG TUNAY NA PANGAAPI SA MGA BASA GAMIT ANG KAPANGYARIHAN NA IPINAGKATIWALA SA KANYA NG BANSA.
WALA NI ISANG POLITICO ANG NAGPAHAYAG NG SUPPORTA SA KANYA. ANG MGA DATING NAGTATANGGOL SA KANYA AY TUMAHIMIG NA AT NAHIHIYA NA SIGURO.
MGA ABOGADO LAMANG NIYA AT SI MIDAS ANG NAGTATANNGOL. ITO ANG MGA TAONG SA TINGIN KO AY WALANG PINAGKAIBA SA KANYA.
BIRDS OF THE SAME FEATHER FLOCKS TOGETHER. MGA BUHAY BA SINUSUNOG NA ANG MGA KALULUWA. SA DAMI NG WALANG HUSTISYANG NAKUKUHA SA KANILANG PAGPAPATUPAD NG BATAS NA NAKAKALAMANG ANG MAYAMAN NA KAYANG MAGBAYAD.
Mel says
Excerpts from a former Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, now a columnist of the Philippine Daily Inquirer
|
|
|
——————————-
Related comments:
– # 123
About the other 3 complainants to appear at the Senate Impeachment? HEARSAY ang labas niyan.
For the pro,
condef panels (including Senate Judges) to question the Ombudsman about the complaints WITH OUT official reports from AMLC to support or authenticate the complaint details – HEARSAY din ang labas niyan.BUT R Corona’s sitting at the SI witness box is an open fete day on other crucial Qs & As. That’s the bonus of the gutsy chess move, to sacrifice the Queen (OMB), to make the King err CJ R Corona to appear by Defense Lawyer Judd Roy.
Judd Roy’s move may well be the ‘Broken Arrow’ to suit everyone’s clamor to see R Corona in the witness box. BUT TO hear him speak volumes? That remains to be heard.
——————————-
– # 123.8
When and should the Ombudsman sits to give her testimony, R Corona & his Impeachment Defense Team are keen to know how much, what materials and info the Ombudsman has gathered so far since Feb. this year.
Where else can a future defenCe person
canquestion his would-be Judge at a Political Court where the defense can ask what information, or better still – what evidences she may have to assist her further investigation, or proofs to warrant his culpability – while presently seating as Chief Justice of the Supreme Court?——————————-
– # 126.2
The ramification of the Ombudsman testifying at the Senate Impeachment is when she has the opportunity to charge R Corona when no longer in the Supreme Court. Any unsubstantiated amplification could back fire on her turf given the opportunity.
Unsolicited… just stick and stay
atwithin the four corners of your Lab Letter to R Corona. That’s a good script to share the contents of your letter while seated at the witness box.——————————-
Eeny, meeny, miny, moe. Sinu ang mau-unang uupo?
max says
Watching the “guardians”
A quick review of Senator Santiago’s demeanour when the rep from the LTA was in the box vs her reaction when the sheriff was in, shows a big contrast. When the camera spanned and showed reactions of the senators during the sheriff’s testimony, their facial expressions and body language were quite telling.
It will be interesting to specifically watch Senator Defensor’s conduct when Corona sits in the box. Will she or will she not spring to action. Rivetting or annoying? May the truth come and the right thing prevail.
Bring Atty. Cynthia Rojas in.
Mel says
@Max, who is Atty. Cynthia Rojas?
max says
Atty. Cynthia Rojas was the prosecution lawyer for day 36.
A fellow member of Raissa’s cyberspace, docbebot quoted that she knows her personally – 3 lawyers in the family.Bedan.
If you have a chance, you should watch the replay of day 36.
Have a good day.
Mel says
tnx @max
Mel says
The Ombudsman has the AMLC goods!
– Ombudsman on CORONA TRIAL:
Report on $10M account came from AMLC–Ombudsman
– $10M came from AMLC: Ombudsman
– CJ withdrew over $400K on Dec. 12
Mel says
“I first sought the information from agencies and then I referred the complaints to the Anti-Money Laundering Council because I thought that the charges included some matters that were within the jurisdiction of the AMLC,” Morales told the court.
“And then later, I constituted a panel of investigators and eventually, I wrote the AMLC seeking assistance towards the determination of the truth of the charges,” she added.
Mel says
CJ R Corona’s REPLY to Ombudsman Carpio-Morales’ Bombshell.
baycas says
RENATO’S RIGHT TO REMAIN
Louise Hawes wrote:
We don’t know if Renato Coronado Corona at any point in his life as Chief Justice that he wished he had not accepted his midnight appointment.
But any of us here must have known that he lied that he took the forbidden bite in May of 2010.
He did not acknowledge this as an original sin.
We never knew then that today we will once again dwell in the past in order to know what lies next week, in May of 2012.
Silence in law exempts an exception. J. Bersamin capitalized on this silence in the Constitution when he wrote de Castro vs. JBC. The appointment ban was nowhere to be found in the “Judiciary” part of the Constitution. Sans the ban, the SC ruling allowed gloria to appoint the next Chief Justice.
Relevant to Corona’s impeachment trial, R.A. 6713 is silent on what to do with foreign currency bank deposits in SALNs. This is gray area some lawyers would like to take advantage of.
Add to that is the fact that R.A. 6426 provides for the secrecy of foreign currency bank deposits.
The defense will capitalize on these points. Bold as it may seem, Corona’s lawyer Roy already advanced such an idea when he categorically said in reply to Senator Drilon:
In short, Corona will keep mum on the dollar accounts inasmuch as there was no substantiation of the Ombudsman’s testimony, which is only a secondhand information from the AMLC. As an excuse, the money in the dollar transactions that were reported were not really his.
Since the Foreign Currency Deposit Act stipulates confidentiality, the dollar deposits allegedly under Corona’s name will remain secret. Corona, the great debater, will just skirt the issue in Court whenever the unverified Ombudsman’s claim will be asked of him.
Knowing Cuevas (thus, Corona too), he will vehemently argue that the inherent individual rights enshrined in the Constitution takes precedence over all what is written in the 1987 version.
If you disregard the inherent rights of a Chief Justice, how much more can you trample upon the constitutional rights of ordinary Filipinos? That is what their camp is saying as they held Black Fridays in P. Faura.
In November of last year, Corona lectured (Read: lambasted) Solicitor General during oral arguments on the petition of gloria macapagal-arroyo questioning the government’s ban on her leaving the country:
Corona’s vigor of championing the rights of every Filipino citizen made him a hero in the recent past. He must now get involved with the gifts bestowed by the Constitution to each citizen. Five days are required to muster his strength.
Come next week, if he will truly place himself before the people, Renato Coronado Corona will demonstrate personally how one right is to be invoked when all excuses fail.
That one constitutional gift is the right to remain silent.