MANILA, Philippines >> The ousted Philippine chief justice has indicated that he won’t challenge his removal after being convicted at an impeachment trial of failing to declare $2.4 million in his bank account.

Renato Corona’s dismissal by a high tribunal last week marked the first time in Philippine history a chief magistrate had been impeached.

Corona issued a statement Sunday saying he was leaving the court, without mentioning any plans to challenge his removal. Corona, however, says he will continue to fight for judicial independence outside of government.

Corona has accused President Benigno Aquino III of fast-tracking his ouster like a dictator. Aquino has accused Corona of blocking his administration’s effort to prosecute former President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo as part of a promised battle against corruption.