Lawyer Francisco confirms withdrawal from Corona’s defense team

MANILA, Philippines—Lawyer Ernesto Francisco confirmed on Tuesday that he has withdrawn from the defense team of Chief Justice Renato Corona.

He refused to give details on his sudden pullout from the team.

“Sorry. I am not at liberty to discuss the reason for my withdrawal,” Francisco said in a text message.

Aside from Francisco, former Court of Appeals Justice Hector Hofilena also reportedly withdrew from Corona’s legal team.

Corona’s impeachment trial is set to start on Jan. 16.

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