Atienza back for cross examination by prosecution

Former Manila Mayor Lito Atienza. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — Manila Mayor Lito Atienza returned to the witness stand on Monday for the continuation of cross examination by the prosecution team.

Atienza was presented as a witness by the defense in connection with the sale of a P34-million property in Manila owned by the family of the wife of Chief Justice Renato Corona’s wife, Cristina.

Atienza testified that Mrs. Corona was authorized by the family-owned Basa-Guidote Enterprise Inc (BGEI) to negotiate the sale of the property.

In his statement of assets, liabilities, and net worth, the Chief Justice declared an P11-million loan, which he allegedly drew from his wife’s company. He also allegedly used the money to buy a property in La Vista, Quezon City.

The issue falls under Article 2 of the impeachment complaint filed against Corona which alleges his failure to disclose his SALN to the public.