MANILA, Philippines (Update 2, 11:55 a.m.) — Minority Sen. Francis Kiko Pangilinan on Tuesday announced he has resigned as president of the Liberal Party, saying “he was taking full responsibility” for the defeat of opposition bets in the Senate race. In a statement, Pangilinan said he handed his letter of resignation to Vice President Leni Robredo, who is also the Party chairperson. "As campaign manager for the Otso Diretso slate, I was unable to ensure our victory in the elections and I therefore assume full responsibility for the outcome and hold myself primarily accountable for this defeat," Pangilinan said, adding his resignation will be effective June 30, 2019. Partial tally of votes showed nine of President Rodrigo Duterte’s chosen senatorial candidates made it to the so-called “Magic 12.” Meanwhile, opposition candidates, most of whom already accepted defeat, are struggling to gain a seat. As of writing, the Commission on Elections has not proclaimed the winning senators.

Source: Philippine Star May 21, 2019 03:00 UTC