LP behind demolition job vs ex-MMDA chief?

MANILA, Philippines - Was resigned Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) chairman Francis Tolentino a victim of a demolition job by his own allies from the Liberal Party (LP)?

Alberto Vicente, spokesman for the Alliance of Good Governance, yesterday expressed belief that a video of a lewd performance during an LP event in Laguna on Sept. 30 was deliberately leaked by the administration party.

The video showing the Playgirls twerking went viral on social media.

The scandal prompted Tolentino to quit his post. He had also asked the LP leadership to strike his name off the list of senatorial candidates that it will be fielding for the May 2016 elections.

According to Vicente, some LP officials do not want Tolentino to be part of the ruling party's senatorial slate.

Vicente claimed LP standard bearer Manuel Roxas II apparently gave the green light to launch attacks against party allies he does not want to be included in the LP ticket.

“He was helpless. He was bullied,” said Vicente, referring to Tolentino. “The big boys were ganging up on him.”

Vicente said Tolentino is more qualified than other LP senatorial candidates in 2016.

The LP is expected to announce its complete Senate slate today.

President Aquino appointed Tolentino as MMDA chief in 2010 to oversee traffic management, flood control projects, urban renewal and land use planning and public safety in the metropolis.