Senator Koko Pimentel has confirmed that he and wife Jewel May Lobaton have separated. Senator Koko Pimentel and wife Jewel May Lobaton have been married for almost 12 years.

On Tuesday, May 22, 2012, Senator Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III confirmed talked that he and his wife have gone their separate ways.

Here’s the official statement from Senator Koko Pimentel:

This 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.

I tried my best to resolve our 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.

Hence, I am asking for prayers from my supporters and the understanding of our people whom I serve. I want to assure them that this situation will not affect the discharge of my duties as a Senator.

Thank you for your prayers and support.

Pimentel replaced former Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri after the latter resigned last August 2011. Zubiri resigned amid allegations that there was massive cheating during the 2007 elections.

Pimentel and Zubiri will reportedly run under the same slate in the 2013 elections.

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