Register of deeds takes witness stand at Corona trial

MANILA, Philippines—The register of deeds of Taguig City was the first witness presented by the prosecution team when the impeachment trial of Supreme Court Chief Justice Renato Corona resumed on Thursday.

Randy Rutaquio was one of six registers of deeds from different Metro Manila cities subpoenaed by the Senate acting as an impeachment court in relation to Corona’s alleged failure to disclose his statement of assets, liabilities and net worth.

Iloilo Representative Niel Tupas Jr, the chief prosecutor, immediately called Rutaquio to the witness stand when Senate President Juan Ponce-Enrile opened the proceeding at around 2 p.m.

Only 13 senators were present when Enrile called the roll.

Cavite Representative Elpidio Barzaga Jr., the prosecutor in-charge of the SALN issue against Corona, conducted the direct examination of the witness.