PBBM lauds Tolentino's efforts during 'Yolanda' aftermath in 2013
By Dhel Nazario
Sen. Francis Tolentino was recognized by President Marcos for his efforts during the onslaught of Super Typhoon Yolanda in 2013 when he was still serving as the chairman of the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA).

During the commemoration in Tacloban, the President acknowledged Tolentino's contribution during the Yolanda rescue and relief operations.
"Si Senator Francis Tolentino, MMDA siya, napakalayo po, (Sen. Francis Tolentino here he was in the MMDA which was really far) but the first heavy equipment that arrived in Tacloban was the MMDA heavy equipment. Nauna pa sila sa lahat ng government agencies," Marcos said.
This was echoed by House Speaker Martin Romualdez, the representative of Tacloban, saying that Sen. Tol "literally risked his life and almost lost his life where he spent the initial days during which death and despair were among us."
Speaker Romualdez addressed the senator stating: "Your presence and resources that you brought with you were critical in our recovery."
Tolentino was also a special mention by Tacloban Mayor Alfred Romualdez.
"Senator Francis Tolentino, who was then MMDA [chairman], brought so much help to the City of Tacloban. We know that it was out of your jurisdiction and yet you went out of your way," Romualdez said.
For Tolentino, the experience from Yolanda is a reminder that "as public servants, it is our duty to ensure that the losses endured during that tragic time will never happen again."