Blocking PAL testimony on Corona’s perks a turnoff–Palace

MANILA, Philippines — Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile’s decision to block the testimony of a Philippine Airlines executive on the travel perks Chief Justice Renato Corona allegedly received appeared to alienate the public from the magistrate’s impeachment trial, Malacanang said on Wednesday.

Secretary Edwin Lacierda, President Benigno Aquino III’s spokesperson, said the people would have wanted to hear evidence that would have shown whether Corona had integrity in deciding cases pending before the high tribunal.

Asked if Enrile’s decision to bloc the testimony alienated the public, Lacierda said, “It would seem so.”

“The public would have preferred that the evidence was presented and it would be up to judges to determine whether they are going to be accepted for whatever purpose they would serve. The public would have wanted to hear the testimony of the PAL executive,” Lacierda said.