Enrile son says prosecution team still lacks votes to convict Corona

Cagayan Rep. Juan “Jack” Ponce Enrile Jr. Photo from www.congress.gov.ph

MANILA, Philippines—By the count of Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile’s son and namesake, the House prosecution team still lacks the votes needed to convict impeached Chief Justice Renato Corona.

“As of now, there are not enough numbers yet—13 for conviction, 7 for acquittal—in my analysis,” Cagayan Rep. Juan “Jack” Ponce Enrile Jr. said in a press conference.

The votes of at least 16 out of the 23 senators are needed to oust the Chief Justice.

Enrile, who was among the 188 representatives who signed the impeachment complaint, said his father had his own mind and would not be swayed by his son’s stand.

“I think he will base it on evidence,” the young Enrile said, adding he did not have any hint on his father’s leanings in the trial.