Is Resigning As A Senator Enough?

"Without admitting any fault and with my vehement denial of the alleged electoral fraud hurled against me, I am submitting my resignation as a duly elected senator of the Republic of the Philippines in the election of which I am falsely accused without mercy and compassion.”

“As I now pronounce my joining the civil society, it is my humble prayer that this institution [will] allow me to resign with honor and dignity.”

This brave act of Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri drew different reactions and surprise from many sectors. Majority salutes him, even his political opponents.

The allegations of election fraud, which Zubiri supposedly benefitted from it, were not proven yet. It will be a interminable process of investigation, prosecution, presentation of evidence, left and right appeals, before the final conclusion of the controversy.

It was four years ago when an election protest was filed against Zubiri and until now, the resolution were still hanging at the Senate Electoral Tribunal or SET.

Zubiri might felt an extreme political pressure or he couldn’t bear it with his conscience that led him decide to leave the elective position. He and his family must be in agony because of the trial by publicity.

But why only now? Zubiri has two years left in the Senate. Ever since he’s elected, the protest and accusations of election fraud are there. Why after the surfaced of the said to be "the key" to poll cheating, former Comelec Commissioner Virgilio Garcillano? Is someone afraid of the truth to be divulged soon? Well, that is, if Garci will tell all.

After the resignation, will Zubiri get off the hook if the charges of fraud were proven? No to double standard of justice, please.