MANILA, Philippines - Senator Aquilino "Koko" Pimentel III on Tuesday, May 22, announced his separation from his wife of 12 years.

"I confirm my separation from my wife of close to 12 years, Jewel May Lobaton. We have been living separately since November 2011," he said in a statement released by his office on Tuesday.

Lobaton is a former beauty queen. She won as Bb Pilipinas-Universe in 1998.

"This may well be the most difficult public pronouncement I will ever be making in my entire life," the statement read.

"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," Pimentel said.

"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," he added. - Rappler.com

Click on the links below for more.

• Sen. Aquilino 'Koko' Pimentel III
• Pimentel denies jumping ship to LP
• Enrile to Koko, Migz: Politics like war