Francis Tolentino: A true Filipino nationalist

BABE'S EYE VIEW FROM WASHINGTON, D.C.

- AMBASSADOR B. ROMUALDEZ

I have known former senator Francis "Tol" Tolentino for many years. I got to know him when he was chairman of the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) where he initiated a lot of projects to solve the traffic in Metro Manila. Among these include the replacement of the old analog traffic system with a digital platform, the installation of high-definition cameras and the construction of a new Metrobase command and control system that would help in monitoring traffic, flooding, accidents and other problems that could compromise the safety of pedestrians, commuters and vehicles.

People remember the "duck, cover and hold" routine that became widely disseminated because of the regular earthquake drills started by the former senator in 2015. A disaster preparedness advocate, he was one of the first to respond during the onslaught of Typhoon Yolanda in 2013, mobilizing MMDA personnel and bringing heavy equipment for search and rescue operations in Tacloban, which was the hardest hit area in Eastern Visayas. In fact, President Marcos recognized his contribution, saying that Tol was way ahead of other local government agencies in responding.

No question public service is really in the blood of Francis who comes from a family of politicians. His father Isaac was mayor of Tagaytay City from 1954 to 1980—the longest serving mayor, if I'm not mistaken. His brother Bambol, currently the president of the Philippine Olympic Committee, served as congressman of Cavite for several years, while his sister Annalyn was Malacañang's Social Secretary during the term of President Duterte.