MANILA - President Rodrigo Duterte on Wednesday vowed to abolish the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), even as its officials have refused to resign.

The president earlier demanded the resignation of ERC officials after getting reports of rampant corruption inside the agency.

This came days after the death of Francisco Villa Jr., who chaired the commission's Bids and Awards Committee.

"I have directed a comprehensive review of all legal remedies to overhaul and effect fundamental changes in the agency including the officials," Duterte told reporters in a press conference in Davao City shortly after his arrival from the APEC Leaders' Summit in Lima, Peru.

"I have received word the members of the body have refused to step down. I demanded that they all resign," Duterte said.

ERC commissioner earlier stated that they will not step down from their positions despite demands from the president.

"We are one in the decision to stay in the post. Resignation would not be to the best interest of the ERC," ERC Commissioners Alfredo Non, Ina Asirit, and Gloria Victoria Taruc jointly told reporters.

Duterte remained firm in his demand.

"Kung ayaw ninyo (If you do not want to resign), we will abolish the office. I will not grant any single centavo," he said.