Impeach court declares ‘ceasefire’ on Valentine’s Day

IMPEACH CAKE. Impeachment Presiding Senator Judge Juan Ponce Enrile is greeted by his staff, giving him a cake with miniature figures of people in the impeachment court on his 88th birthday on Tuesda. SENATE POOL/ALBERT CALVELO

MANILA, Philippines—The impeachment trial of Chief Justice Renato Corona suspended early on Tuesday to allow participants in the proceeding to spend Valentine’s Day with their loved ones.

Senate President Juan Ponce-Enrile, presiding officer, suspended the proceeding at around 4:30 p.m., barely two-and-a-half hours of deliberation.

“Today is February 14 your honor, the natal day of the presiding officer of this honorable court,” said the head of the defense team, former Supreme Court Justice Serafin Cuevas.

“In addition to that, it’s Valentine’s day. Baka pwedneg ipahingi niyo na ang araw na ito para naman makapiling namin ang aming minamahal sa buhay,”said Cuevas.

“In short, I’m asking for a declaration of ‘cessation of hostilities’,” Cuevas said in jest.

Chief prosecutor and Iloilo Representative Nile Tupas Jr. joined Cueva’s manifestation.

“Peace be with you,” said Enrile, who is celebrating his 88th birthday this Tuesday.