MANILA, Philippines - Bulacan provincial board member Romeo Allan Robes resigned from his post yesterday afternoon, three months after he shot and killed the former lover of his mother-in-law in Quezon City.
In a two-page resignation letter submitted before the office of the Sangguniang Panglalawigan, Robes never mentioned Feb. 10 incident when Noel Orate, the ex-lover of former Quezon City representative Nanette Castelo-Daza, was killed in what Robes claimed was self-defense.
Robes is married to Castelo-Daza’s daughter, incumbent Quezon City Councilor Jessica Daza-Robes.
“This trying period in my life has necessitated me to direct my attention outside the district which I represent. I refuse to continue to enjoy the privileges accorded my position when I cannot properly attend the needs of my constituents. More importantly, I cannot be an effective member of this august body nor can I discharge my oath and duties while my attention is elsewhere,” he said in his May 11 letter. Robes represents Bulacan’s fourth district.
He said that decision to resign was “probably the hardest I have had to do,” but it was reached after much soul-searching and consultation with his family.
Members of the provincial board, led by Vice Gov. Daniel Fernando, said they were saddened by Robes’ decision. Others said they expected the resignation since Robes hardly attended the board’s sessions since the incident.
Fernando said they have to look for Robes’ replacement.