Renato Corona, Filipino lawyer and jurist, 23rd Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the Philippines (b. 1948)

Renato Tirso Antonio Coronado Corona (October 15, 1948 – April 29, 2016) was a prominent Filipino jurist whose career culminated in his appointment as the 23rd Chief Justice of the Philippines, serving from 2010 to 2012. His tenure, though relatively brief, was marked by significant events that left an indelible mark on Philippine judicial and political history, most notably his impeachment and conviction.

Early Life and Distinguished Career Before the High Court

Born in Tanauan, Batangas, Renato Corona dedicated a substantial part of his life to public service and the legal profession. Before his elevation to the Supreme Court, he built a solid foundation as a law professor, sharing his knowledge and expertise with aspiring legal minds. He also engaged in private law practice, honing his skills in various legal fields. His journey into high-level government service began with roles in the Cabinet under two different Philippine presidents. He served under President Fidel V. Ramos, contributing to executive policies and governance, and later under President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, further deepening his experience in the intricacies of national administration. These diverse experiences provided him with a comprehensive understanding of both legal theory and practical statecraft, preparing him for the demanding roles he would eventually undertake in the judiciary.

Ascension to the Supreme Court and the Chief Justiceship

Corona's judicial career commenced with his appointment as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the Philippines on April 9, 2002, by then-President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo. His years as an Associate Justice saw him participate in numerous landmark decisions, contributing to the nation's jurisprudence. Following the retirement of Chief Justice Reynato Puno, President Arroyo appointed Justice Corona as the 23rd Chief Justice of the Philippines on May 12, 2010. This appointment, made just weeks before the end of President Arroyo's term, became a subject of national debate regarding the constitutional implications of a "midnight appointment," though ultimately upheld by the Supreme Court itself, with Corona abstaining from the deliberations.

The Impeachment Trial: A Defining Chapter in Philippine History

The most controversial period of Chief Justice Corona's career began on December 12, 2011, when the House of Representatives of the Philippines voted to impeach him. This unprecedented move against a sitting Chief Justice set in motion a highly publicized and deeply divisive trial. The articles of impeachment filed against him contained various charges, but the central and ultimately decisive accusation, detailed under Article Two, pertained to his failure to publicly disclose his Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth (SALN). In the Philippines, the SALN is a crucial document required of all public officials and employees, designed to promote transparency, accountability, and prevent corruption by revealing their financial standing and potential conflicts of interest. The Senate, sitting as an impeachment court, conducted a trial that captivated the nation for months. On May 29, 2012, after extensive deliberations and presentations of evidence, the Senate voted to convict Chief Justice Corona on the charge of failing to disclose his SALN. This conviction led to his removal from office, marking the first time a Philippine Chief Justice was impeached and subsequently convicted, fundamentally altering the landscape of judicial accountability in the country.

Aftermath and Legacy

Following his conviction and removal from office, Renato Corona faced continued legal challenges. He passed away on April 29, 2016, at the age of 67. His life and career, particularly the events surrounding his impeachment, remain a significant reference point in discussions about judicial independence, government transparency, and political dynamics in the Philippines. His tenure as Chief Justice, though fraught with controversy, undeniably contributed to a heightened public awareness of the conduct and accountability expected of high-ranking public officials.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who was Renato Corona?

Renato Tirso Antonio Coronado Corona was a distinguished Filipino jurist who served as the 23rd Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the Philippines from 2010 to 2012. He was also a former law professor, private practitioner, and Cabinet member.

When did Renato Corona serve as Chief Justice?

He served as the Chief Justice of the Philippines from May 12, 2010, until his conviction and removal from office on May 29, 2012.

What was his career path before becoming Chief Justice?

Before his elevation to the Chief Justiceship, Renato Corona was an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court, appointed in 2002. Prior to his judicial appointments, he worked as a law professor, a private law practitioner, and held Cabinet positions under Presidents Fidel V. Ramos and Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.

Why was Chief Justice Corona impeached?

Chief Justice Corona was impeached by the House of Representatives in December 2011, primarily on charges related to his failure to accurately and fully disclose his Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth (SALN) to the public, as mandated by Philippine law for public officials.

What is a SALN?

A SALN, or Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth, is a document required by law in the Philippines for all public officials and employees. It details their wealth, financial obligations, and business interests, serving as a vital tool for transparency, preventing corruption, and monitoring unexplained wealth.

What was the outcome of his impeachment trial?

The Senate, acting as an impeachment court, found Chief Justice Corona guilty on May 29, 2012, of the charges related to the non-disclosure of his SALN. Consequently, he was removed from his position, marking the first time a Philippine Chief Justice was successfully impeached and convicted.