Embattled provincial legislator Niño Rey Boniel has resigned as board member of Bohol, a year after he was implicated in the disappearance and alleged killing of his wife Gisela who was the mayor of Bien Unido.
The Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) received Niño’s resignation on Thursday during the provincial legislature’s regular session which was presided over by Vice Governor Dionisio Balite at the Bohol Plaza Resort in Dauis.
In a letter dated June 7, Niño tendered his resignation indicating that he was “irrevocably resigning” as board member of the province’s second legislative district “effective immediately.”
“It has been a privilege working with the rest of the members of the Provincial Board and that is why I would also take this opportunity to really thank everyone who has helped me in my stint as lawmaker for the provincial of Bohol,” said Boniel.
Gisela who has been presumed dead was allegedly shot and thrown in waters off Lapu-Lapu City on June 7, 2017.
Niño was tagged as primary suspect, while Gisela’s remains have yet to be found.
After his arrest, Niño said that he wished to continue carrying out his duties as board member while in detention.
Niño’s camp, in its appeal in July last year, pointed out that officials such as Sen. Antonio Trillanes, Sen. Leila De Lima and other senators were able to work as legislators while in detention.
Meanwhile, Niño’s seat at the SP is now vacant.
The SP’s committee on rules chair Board Member Tomas Abapo Jr, citing the Local Government Code, said that the President can appoint a replacement for Niño. (RT)