Department of Justice (DoJ) Assistant Secretary Arthel Caronoñgan filed his resignation with President Arroyo, following the footsteps of Justice Secretary Agnes Devanadera.

The resignation dated February 26 to President Arroyo, through DoJ Secretary Devanadera, was filed following a recent Supreme Court ruling, upholding constitutionality of Ipso Facto Resignation Provisions.

Last December 14, 2009 Caronoñgan filed his certificate of candidacy (CoC), as a substitute candidate, to run as Congressman of the Second District of Pangasinan.

“At the outset, I would like to express my sincerest thanks and gratitude for giving me several opportunities to serve in your official family. First, as Legal Officer of Garments and Textile Export Board (GTEB), which Your Excellency, used to head; second, when Your Excellency appointed me as Associate Commissioner, Bureau of Immigration and lastly, as Assistant Secretary of the Department of Justice (DoJ),” said Caronoñgan in his resignation letter.

He said: “A few days ago, the Supreme Court decided in the Quinto Case that appointive officials who are running for elective posts are deemed resigned,” he said. In view of the decision, according to Caronoñgan, propriety dictates that he should resign from his present position as Assistant Secretary of the DoJ. (Jeamma E. Sabate)