Rizal province to adopt ex-MMDA chair as honorary citizen

THE PROVINCE of Rizal will adopt senatorial candidate Francis Tolentino as its honorary citizen.

The move, seen to boost the candidacy of Tolentino, was supported by the Rizal Mayors League and former Gov. Ito Ynares during a meeting held recently wherein Tolentino was the guest speaker.

“I feel honored to be part of the people of Rizal. I am grateful that the mayors’ league and Governor Ynares recognized my roots and contribution,” said Tolentino.

Support for Tolentino continues to gain ground as the campaign season draws near.

Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte is among those who endorsed Tolentino’s candidacy.

Tolentino expressed gratitude for the endorsement of Duterte, who called Tolentino a good friend.

Tolentino, who filed his candi- dacy for senator on Oct. 14, was joined by Cavite Gov. Jonvic Remulla and several other Cavite mayors who earlier endorsed him through a resolution.

Tolentino, who served as Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) chair, was also supported by Metro Manila Council members and Parañaque Mayor Edwin Olivarez and Caloocan Mayor Oscar Malapitan.

If elected as senator, Tolentino said he would push for the establishment of a National Disaster Recovery Agency and a National Urban Planning Com- mission to address disaster response and urban growth problems.

Tolentino, who holds a doctorate in international environmental law, said in a statement he wants to push for laws to promote disaster preparedness and environmental sustainability.

Presidential candidate Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago has yet to talk to Tolentino for a possible spot in her senatorial lineup.