The former Technical, Educational and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Secretary Joel Villanueva, who is running for a senate seat in the coming May 9 polls, has announced that he is still with the Liberal Party (LP) coalition.
The ex-TESDA chief also declared he was supporting former Interior Sec. Mar Roxas, the LP’s presidential standard bearer, and LP’s vice presidential candidate Rep. Lennie Robredo in the synchronized elections in May.
Villanueva, going by the moniker TESDAMAN, held a press conference in Dumaguete Monday, where he confirmed that he is still with Sibak Partylist as its president and chairperson.
The senatorial candidate, who was accused by former Justice Sec. Leila de Lima of misusing pork barrel funds, admitted that he still “feels the same and nothing has changed” about her.
“It feels awkward to be with someone who has accused you falsely without basis”, said Villanueva.
While he had earlier announced he would not want to run in the same ticket as de Lima, he said personal feelings have to take a backseat for the good of the people.
He likened himself to the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) legends who were with him on his visit to Dumaguete Monday.
These professional basketball players are usually traded to another team, and sometimes they don’t like the new team or some of its members, Villanueva pointed out.
“But, it does not change the fact that once they are on the court, they would do everything they can to win the ball game,” Villanueva added.
The PBA legends played an exhibition game with the local basketball team Shaman Air at the Lamberto Macias Sports and Cultural Center.
Alvin Patrimonio, Jerry Codiñera, Marlou Aquino, Bal David, Rodney Santos, Bobby Jose, Kenneth Duremdes, Noli Locsin and Rogie Yap saw action in the match called “Shoot for Your Dreams”, sponsored by the NOATI, TESDA provincial office and the provincial government. (PNA)
