Tolentino to run as independent for Senate

MANILA, Philippines - Resigned Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) chairman Francis Tolentino will be filing his certificate of candidacy (COC) for senator tomorrow.

According to a source, Tolentino, who resigned from the MMDA last Oct. 7, will run as an independent candidate.

Tolentino had tendered his resignation following his public apology over the recent controversial sexy dance number of the all-female group Playgirls during a Liberal Party gathering in Sta. Cruz, Laguna.

The emcee of the event announced that Tolentino brought the Playgirls as a gift for Laguna Rep. Benjamin Agarao Jr., who was also celebrating his birthday.

Tolentino denied hiring the Playgirls but the controversy over the dance number – which some sectors said was tantamount to exploitation of women – prompted the MMDA chairman to apologize to the public and resign from his post.

He also asked the LP leadership to remove his name from the party’s list of possible senatorial bets.

Tolentino also thanked President Aquino for giving him the chance to serve at the MMDA.