Tolentino leaves Partido Demokratiko Pilipino

SENATE Majority Leader Francis Tolentino has resigned from the Partido Demokratiko Pilipino (PDP) to be an «independent» lawmaker, citing differences with the party over foreign policy directions.

Tolentino on Monday wrote to Sen. Robinhood Padilla, the new PDP president, to inform him of his decision to leave.

Padilla on July 25 asked Tolentino to step down as PDP member so he can attend to his added duties as Senate majority leader.

Sen. Francis Tolentino. PHOTO BY MIKE ALQUINTO

Tolentino formally tendered his resignation through Rep. Jose Alvarez, former PDP president.

In his letter to Alvarez, Tolentino said, «I am writing to formally inform you of [my] decision to disengage from PDP Party 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,» he said.

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Tolentino added that the PDP'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 [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,» he said. «A stronger, more resolute multilateral alliance with our historical allies and like-minded nations is critical [in] effectively addressing challenges in the West Philippine Sea and ensuring regional stability.»

He said that the 2016 The Hague Arbitral ruling «is crucial to our territorial integrity.»

The Permanent Court of Arbitration in July 2016 invalidated China's expansive claim in the South China Sea, encroaching into the Philippines' exclusive economic zone.

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«I believe that upholding this ruling and strengthening our alliances with supporters of a rules-based international order are essential for advancing our national interests and safeguarding our sovereignty,» Tolentino said.