<p>The reason for Palafox's resignation was a mystery, and he wouldn't say whether he was asked to resign.</p>
<p>Abercrombie's office said Palafox asked the Democratic governor to withdraw his nomination.</p>
<p>"Gov. Abercrombie accepted Dr. Palafox's request and will make a new appointment for the Health Director as soon as possible," spokeswoman Donalyn Dela Cruz said in a statement.</p>