CJ must be exemplar of integrity and probity

The Jan. 21 editorial of the Inquirer is absolutely correct: How could the difference between the actual acquisition value (P14.5 million) of Chief Justice Renato Corona’s posh 300-sq m penthouse in The Fort and its declared SALN value (only P6.8 million) – or an undervaluation of nearly P8 million – be a “minor discrepancy” as his lawyers would want to make it appear to the public?

Well, it appears now that Corona hasn’t been telling the truth in his SALNs. His condominium units and lot in Makati, Taguig and Quezon City are all in all worth P42.1 million, based on the deeds of absolute sale to these properties. But he declared the total value of these properties in his SALN at only P13.1 million, or just a third of their actual total values.

The SALN is required by law of all public officials and employees to determine if they are living within their means. You are right: if there is any discrepancy in the SALN submitted, then such discrepancy constitutes prima facie evidence of ill-gotten wealth.

A chief justice is expected to be an exemplar of integrity and probity. If Corona has not been truthful in accomplishing his SALNs and declaring his assets, then he loses all moral authority to sit at the helm of the judiciary. A chief justice should not lie.

To the question: “Can the nation afford what looks like deceitful, squalid behavior by its highest magistrate?” My answer is: No, absolutely not.

—PHOEBE ZYRINE PINEDA,

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