PNoy accepts NBI director's resignation 'with deep regret'

MANILA, Philippines - President Benigno Aquino III has accepted the resignation of Nonnatus Rojas, director of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI).

Saying Rojas' over a year of service as NBI director has "taken a serious toll on his health," Aquino expressed regret in his acceptance of the official's resignation.

"It is my belief that it would be an unwarranted imposition on the well-being of a model public servant, for Director Rojas, to remain in the NBI. For this reason, I am constrained to accept, with deep regret, his resignation," Aquino said in a statement on Friday.

Rojas tendered his irrevocable resignation earlier this week, citing command responsibility amid allegations that two of his men aided alleged pork barrel scam mastermind Janet Lim-Napoles in evading arrest last month.

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Justice Secretary Leila de Lima said she would “wholeheartedly and firmly” recommend to the President a rejection of Rojas’ resignation.

In his statement, Aquino said Rojas "did not fail us" and was "instrumental in restoring the credibility of the NBI."

Rojas was appointed as NBI director in July 20, 2012.

"Atty. Nonnatus R. Rojas managed the transformation of the NBI from an agency reeling from very serious controversies, to one that has regained pride of place as the foremost investigative arm of the Department of Justice," Aquino said.

The President added that for the meantime, De Lima will directly supervise the NBI, including the appointment of an officer-in-charge to ensure the effective continuation of the agency's tasks.