Statement on the resignation of
Comelec Chairman Benjamin Abalos

I welcome the resignation of Comelec Chairman Benjamin Abalos amid the Senate investigation on the ZTE deal.

This reflects a sense of delicadeza and sensitivity to public opinion on the part of Chairman Abalos. Nonetheless, the Senate investigation must continue. The ZTE deal is a transaction separate from the persona that is Abalos. With or without his resignation, it must be concluded.

The Senate inquires because we want to legislate. The Senate investigates because it is our Constitutional duty.

As Senate president, I want the committee report on the ZTE deal anomaly fully completed. It should recommend policy measures geared to curb graft and corruption, and if called for, it will not hesitate to recommend the prosecution of people liable for illegal acts.