Willie Revillame leaving Wowowee?

ABS-CBN has “extended” Willie Revillame’s leave of absence from Wowowee until September 21.

This is part of the “compromise settlement” reached by ABS-CBN and the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB).

ABS-CBN was required to issue a statement on the controversial episode.

In this statement, ABS-CBN said it is “fully aware of its legal and moral responsibilities as a broadcaster and shall undertake to continue to uphold the values and customs of the Filipino viewing public.”

The network was also asked to remove the sexy dance segment featuring dancers Luningning and Saicy Aguila.

Willie went on an “indefinite leave” after he drew widespread criticism for his on-air statement asking to stop video inserts of President Cory Aquino’s funeral march during Wowowee's August 3 episode.

However, Willie Revillame said he respects the decision of ABS-CBN management but he wasn’t sure he still wants to return to the show. It is now rumored that he plans to vie for a seat at the Philippine Senate come May 2010 elections. “I will announce my decision next week,” he said.