Biography

Manuel Leuterio de Castro, Jr. (born ), better known as Noli de Castro or "Kabayan" Noli de Castro, is a former Vice President of the Philippines (2004-2010). A radio and TV newsreader and commentator by profession, De Castro was elected Senator in 2001 and Vice President in 2004. He is the first independent candidate to receive the highest number of votes in a Philippine senatorial election and the first elected Vice President of the Philippines to run independently, although he campaigned in both elections under an alliance that supported the candidacy and administration of Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. De Castro currently anchors his radio program Kabayan on DZMM and TV Patrol.