TESDA chief Joel Villanueva resigns ahead of 2016 senatorial run

Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Director General Joel Villanueva resigned from his post Friday, two days before the week-long filing of certificate of candidacy for the 2016 elections.

On his Twitter account, Villanueva shared what could be presumed as his last photo with TESDA employees before he went to Malacañang to personally submit his resignation letter to President Benigno Aquino III.

Getting ready before heading to Malakanyang to submit my courtesy resignation. Maraming salamat PNoy! #tesdaman2016 pic.twitter.com/Lb9oHTBgMW

— Sec. Joel Villanueva (@secjoelv) October 9, 2015

His resignation came following his announcement that he would run for senator next year.

Villanueva made the declaration during a gathering of technical vocational students at the Cuneta Astrodome in Pasay City dubbed "Scholars’ Day."

No less than President Aquino was present during the event to endorse Villanueva’s senatorial bid. The two have been close friends since their days as members of the House of Representatives.

Although the Liberal Party (LP) has yet to announce its senatorial slate, presidential spokesperson Edwin Lacierda had earlier confirmed that Villanueva will be running under the administration banner. —Kathrina Charmaine Alvarez/KBK, GMA News