Prosecution drops 5 impeachment articles

MANILA, Philippines – The prosecution panel expressed its intention to no longer pursue the remaining five Articles of impeachment against Chief Justice Renato Corona.

Lead House prosecutor, Iloilo Rep. Niel Tupas Jr. said they would no longer present evidence on Articles 1, 4, 5, 6 and 8 of the complaint.

Tupas told Presiding Senator-Judge Juan Ponce Enrile that they are terminating the presentation of documents and witnesses on the five remaining Articles.

The prosecution panel has already presented documents and witnesses on Articles 2, 3 and 7 before it rested its case.

These articles pertain to Corona’s alleged non-disclosure of his statements of assets, liabilities and net worth (SALN), and his partiality in issuance by the High Court of a temporary restraining order that would allow former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to leave the country. 

Enrile, however, ordered the prosecution panel to file a formal motion to withdrawal or dropping, or cancellation of the five Articles of impeachment.

With the development, the defense would have its turn to present evidence and witnesses before the impeachment court.