Tolentino leaves PDP, cites differences in West PH Sea policy

Majority Leader Francis “Tol” Tolentino (Senate Public Relations and Information Bureau)

MANILA, Philippines — Senate Majority Leader Francis Tolentino said he has stepped down as a member of Partido Demokratiko Pilipino (PDP) due to “significant differences in foreign policy directions,” particularly matters regarding the West Philippine Sea.

Tolentino attached to his letter to PDP President Sen. Robin Padilla his letter to former party head Jose Alvarez, explaining why he chose to disengage from the party.

“I am writing to formally inform you of my decision to disengage from PDP activities and pursue a path, for now, as an independent legislator, effective immediately. This decision comes after careful consideration and is due to significant differences in our foreign policy directions, particularly regarding the West Philippine Sea,” Tolentino’s letter reads.

According to Tolentino, the 2016 Arbitral Ruling is crucial to the country’s territorial integrity as it strengthened alliances essential to advancing Philippine interests.

“The party’s inclination on bilateral dialogue concerning these matters, while having merit, may not fully align with the principles established by the Arbitral Ruling and might weaken our position in the international area,” his letter reads.

“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. A stronger, more resolute multilateral alliance with our historical allies and like-minded nations is crucial for effectively addressing challenges in the West Philippine Sea and ensuring regional stability,” it adds.

Tolentino’s move came after Padilla sought his resignation from PDP.

In a statement issued on July 25, Padilla said Tolentino may have to resign from PDP as party vice president for Luzon and as a member so he can attend to his added duties as the new Senate majority leader.

“Dahilan sa bagong mandato na inyong hinaharap sa Senado, buong pagpapakumbaba kong iminumungkahi na marahil po ay mas makabubuti ang iyong pagbibitiw bilang opisyal at kasapi ng PDP-Laban,” Padilla said.

(Due to the new mandate you will face in the Senate, I humbly suggest that it would be better for you to resign as an officer and member of PDP-Laban.)

READ: Robin Padilla is new president of PDP