POC chief's daughter takes over as Cavite governor

MANILA, Philippines – Athena Bryana Tolentino, daughter of Tagaytay City mayor and Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham "Bambol" Tolentino, has been sworn in as Cavite governor following her predecessor Jonvic Remulla’s appointment as Interior and Local Government secretary.

Athena, 26, took her oath of office Tuesday at the Provincial Capitol in Trece Martirez, vowing to continue her predecessor’s programs.

“We will continue all the programs and projects of Gov. Jonvic [Remulla]. It’s a great opportunity to serve the people of Cavite province in this capacity as governor with the guidance of God. I am very thankful and inspired,” Athena said. 

“As the youngest and first female governor of the province, we are confident in her leadership and heart for service,” said her father Bambol, who is also the current vice president of the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP). “With her dedication, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to progress, we know she will do great things for Cavite.”

“We are here to support her and pray for her success which will be the success of the entire Cavite. We look forward to a brighter future for the province under her guidance,” Tolentino added. 

Athena, who served as city councilor of Tagaytay City from 2019 to 2022 before being elected as vice-governor, was also accompanied by mother and Tagaytay vice mayor Agnes, and siblings Aniela (also Cavite 8th District representative) and Brent Tolentino.