Sen. Villar resigns post; Sen. Enrile is the new Senate President

November 17, 2008

MANILA, Philippines - Senate President Manuel “Manny” Villar on Monday announced his resignation from the post even as he hailed his successor, Sen. Juan Ponce Enrile.

Enrile, a pro-administration lawmaker, was congratulated and given assurance of support by Villar.

“My dear colleagues in this august chamber, the tenure of the Senate President - as everyone knows - depends on the number of members that supports him or her. I was informed this afternoon I no longer have the support of majority of my colleagues. I therefore tender my
resignation and congratulate the new senate President, honorable Juan Ponce Enrile,” he said.

“You have my support in seeing to it this chamber continue maintain its unquestionable independence and solid reputation,” he added.

He thanked those who gave him their trust and confidence during his two years as Senate president, counting the time he took over from Sen. Franklin Drilon during the 13th Congress.

Villar said he can “serve fully and sincerely” even if he or she does not occupy the top spot in the chamber. He pledged his loyalty to his fellowmen, adding “I will continue.”

Also, he said that now that he has been “released from the burdens of being Senate President,” he will devote more time as fiscalizer and to people in the countryside and his family.

“I shall now have more time to be with the people in the countryside and with my family,”Villar said.

After reading his statement, Sen. Panfilo Lacson nominated Enrile, a move which was seconded by Sen. Gregorio “Gringo” Honasan.

Out of the 23 senators, 14 voted for Enrile while five abstained.

Among those who abstained were Senators Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino and Francis Pangilinan.

Enrile was declared Senate President after Honasan administered the oath of office.

Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago was absent.

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