Senate Majority Leader Francis Tolentino resigned Monday as Vice President and member of Partido Demokratiko Pilipino (PDP).
In a press conference, Tolentino said he left PDP because of differences with the party on foreign policy direction, particularly, in the country’s approach to the West Philippine Sea dispute with China.
Tolentino told Senator Robin Padila that he believes the 2016 Hague Arbitral ruling must be upheld as well as strengthening the Philippines’ alliances with “supporters of a rules-based international order.”
“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 arena,” Tolentino said.
He explained that this approach “might not adequately protect” the rights and livelihoods of Filipino fishermen, the bravery of our soldiers, and acknowledged the critical role of the Philippines’ 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,” he said
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