Resigned MMDA head to file COC on Wednesday

MANILA, Philippines - Resigned Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chair Francis Tolentino is expected to file his certificate of candidacy on Wednesday, confirming his earlier announcement that he is running for a Senate seat.

“The political storm is over. I hope so. Like any good soldier, the battle must be won at all cost. I ask for your support as I embark on a familiar territory,” Tolentino said.

Tolentino was credited for upgrading the salary grade of MMDA employees upgrades, increasing Christmas bonuses, housing and scholarship for permanent employees and other benefits. 

Earlier, Tolentino said he was grateful to MMDA staff for their hard work.

"Ang MMDA po ang nagwawalis sa kalye. Ang MMDA po ay  ang mga kababayan nating nagbabanat ng buto, nagtatrapik umula't umaraw," he said.

Tolentino was the MMDA chair for more than five years. He was appointed by Aquino to the post on July 27, 2010.

On September 29, Tolentino announced that he is running for senator in 2016. He made the declaration in the presence of Cavite leaders from various political parties.

His achievements in the MMDA include the Traffic Monitoring System app and the MMDA Twitter page. 

He also reopened the Pasig River Ferry as an alternative transport system, implemented the Southwest Integrated Provincial Transport System which consolidates all existing 85 bus terminals, and led the upgrade Metro Manila's flood control system and pumping stations.

His biggest achievement to date is the success of the Metro Manila Shake Drill with over 8 million participants and volunteers, and 2.1 billion social media views worldwide who all joined in MMDA's efforts to be prepared for a magnitude 7.2 earthquake. 

On October 1, Tolentino's name was dragged into the controversial Liberal Party oath-taking and birthday celebration of Laguna Rep. Benjamin Agarao where scantily clad women performed a sexually suggestive dance.