Corona’s wife paid for P9M condo unit in ‘cash’

MANILA, Philippines — Chief Justice Renato Corona’s wife, Cristina, allegedly paid in “cash category” a P9 million condominium unit in Taguig City, a witness said during the impeachment trial on Monday.

“The condominium unit was paid under the cash category of payment,” said Aniceto Visnar Jr., vice

president of Ayala Land Inc., when he testified before the Senate sitting as an impeachment court.

Visnar was referring to a condominium unit-1902 Spanish Bay Tower in Taguig City bought by Corona’s wife in October 2005.

Asked what he meant by “cash category,” the witness said, “The unit was acquired in almost cash basis with the buyer issuing checks for payment of the unit.”

“It is considered as normal cash payment term as compared to installment payment which may take several years,” Visnar further explained.

The first check amounting to P2.2 million was issued by the Chief Justice on March 31, 2004, and the second check amounting to P6.9 million was issued by the wife on April 30, 2004.

Visnar was the ninth witness presented by the prosecution since the trial began last January 16, 2012.