Binay snubs prediction that he’ll benefit in Corona acquittal

MANILA, Philippines – The camp of Vice President Jejomar Binay distances itself from the claims of its ally, former senator Ernesto Maceda, that Binay will benefit once chief justice Renato Corona gets acquitted.

Joey Salgado, spokesperson of Binay, said in a statement on Sunday, April 15, that the former senator was simply voicing out his personal opinion as a political analyst.

Maceda has predicted that a vote to acquit Corona is a vote of support for Binay’s presidential bid, while a vote to convict will drive support for President Benigno Aquino III and his presidential candidate in 2016.

Binay has already confirmed his intention to run for presidency in 2016, while Aquino has yet to announce his bet for the next presidential race.

“The Vice President has always maintained that the impeachment trial of the Chief Justice is a test of our democracy. It is important that the people see the trial as fair and impartial, and the outcome is respected by all,” Salgado said.

Salgado added that the votes of the senators should not be dictated by politics, “but by their appreciation of the facts presented during the trial and by what would help strengthen our democracy.”

Earlier, Binay’s stand on the Corona case was questioned by allies of Aquino. Budget Secretary Florencio Abad Jr. and Cavite Representative Joseph Abaya dared Binay to tell the public whether he is supporting the prosecution of former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and the Corona impeachment.

This is after Binay’s coalition for the 2013 midterm elections, the United Nationalist Alliance (UNA), invited Arroyo allies and Aquino critics to join its senatorial slate. -Rappler.com