Corona mum, emotional about prosecution team’s request to summon family members

MANILA, Philippines—Chief Justice Renato Corona became emotional when asked about reports that his family members would be summoned by the prosecution in his impeachment trial.

Aside from Corona, the prosecution team also reportedly requested the appearance and testimony of his wife, Cristina, and other family members identified as Carla Corona-Castillo, Francis Corona, Charina Corona and Constantino Castillo III.

After a novena Mass officiated at the Supreme Court, Corona said, “Marami akong gustong sabihing masakit pero (I have so many bitter feelings to express, but) I place my trust in the Lord sa pangyayaring ito (in what’s happening).”

Asked what he intends to do about this latest development, Corona said, “I refer that to the lawyers.”

Meanwhile, court officers and employees plan to drape with black cloth all the statues at the Supreme Court building at the start of the impeachment proceedings.

Supreme Court Employees Association president Jojo Guerrero said they have coordinated with other officers and employees of organizations of the judiciary on how they would air their protest against the impeachment. Guerrero said there are about 27,000 rank-and-file court employees around the country.