MANILA, Philippines ? The Supreme Court ruling dismissing Pampanga Gov. Eddie Panlilio?s petition against a recount of votes in the 2007 gubernatorial race in the province should be respected, Malacañang said Friday.

?Like in all other cases decided by the Supreme Court, we should all abide by the decision,? Press Secretary Cerge Remonde said on radio.

The high court threw out Panlilio?s petition for lack of merit, saying the Commission on Elections did not abuse its authority when it ordered a vote recount in July 2007 in reaction to a protest filed by Panlilio?s closest rival, Lilia Pineda.

Gary Olivar, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo?s spokesperson on economic matters, denied that the Palace had a hand in the ruling.

?The decision of the Supreme Court was arrived at in good form following the usual procedures that [it goes] through in coming out with decisions,? Olivar told reporters.

He cautioned the public against speculating that the Palace could influence the tribunal?s decisions, saying this ?does not contribute to the strengthening of institutions.?

Olivar added that the high court was not only a co-equal branch of government but also ?the last refuge of a people in a country governed by the rule of law.?