Golez denies role in Koko split

MANILA, Philippines - Bacolod City Rep. Anthony Golez yesterday denied being the cause of the separation of Sen. Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III and wife Jewel May Lobaton, and called on all concerned to respect the privacy of the erstwhile couple.

Golez was commenting on reports that he was behind the separation that Pimentel officially announced on Tuesday.

“I categorically deny having anything to do with the breakup of a relationship,” Golez said in a text message.

Golez said he and Lobaton have been implementing different

advocacies “that are very important to the people of Bacolod, most especially the children and the needy.”

“Let’s pray for them and wish the very best as they go on their separate ways,” Golez said.

Pimentel said announcing their separation “may well be the most difficult public pronouncement I will ever be making in my entire life.”

“And painful too, as every separation involves a certain degree of pain. I confirm my separation from my wife of close to 12 years, Jewel May Lobaton. We have been living separately since November 2011,” the senator said.

Pimentel said he tried his best to resolve their differences “for the sake of our two boys but have failed to do so.”

“Now that we have separated, my main concern is the welfare of the boys,” he said.

Pimentel sought prayers from his supporters and the understanding of his constituents.

“I want to assure them that this situation will not affect the discharge of my duties as a senator,” he said.