In 2025, Beijing announced sanctions on Francis Tolentino over his remarks and moves which it saw as 'detrimental to China’s interests and China-Philippines relations'

President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. has appointed former senator Francis Tolentino as the new acting secretary of the Department of Labor and Employment.

Tolentino takes over the post of Bienvenido Laguesma who is stepping down to focus on his health