Senate Majority Floor Leader Francis Tolentino resigned on Monday from his position as Vice President and member of the Partido Demokratiko Pilipino (PDP) following the advice of party President Senator Robinhood Padilla.
“Independent ako… Ang sa’kin dito para sa Pilipino,” Tolentino stated to reporters.
In his resignation letter dated August 5, 2024, Tolentino cited significant differences in foreign policy directions, especially concerning the West Philippine Sea, as the reason for his decision.
He pointed out that PDP’s preference for bilateral dialogue with China “while having merit, may not fully align with the principles established by the Arbitral Ruling and might weaken our position in the international arena.”
“This approach might not adequately protect the rights and livelihoods of our fishermen, the bravery of our soldiers, and acknowledge the critical role of our international allies,” Tolentino added.