New DOTr head Dizon assured of senators’ support

Senate leaders on Thursday welcomed the appointment of former Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) head Vivencio “Vince” Dizon as the new Secretary of the Department of Transportation (DOTr), following the resignation of Jaime Bautista due to health reasons.

Malacañang announced Dizon’s appointment, effective February 21, as part of the administration’s ongoing efforts to strengthen leadership in key government agencies.

Senate President Francis Escudero took to social media to congratulate Dizon and express his optimism about working with him in government.

“I congratulate Vince Dizon on his appointment as the new DOTr Secretary! I look forward to working with him in government! I likewise wish Sec. Bautista well and thank him for his service at the DOTr!,” Escudero stated.

Senator Grace Poe, who chairs the Senate committee on public services, acknowledged the significant responsibilities awaiting Dizon but remained hopeful about his leadership.

“We want to congratulate Secretary Vince Dizon on his appointment and thank him for taking on such an enormous task at this critical time,” Poe said.

She highlighted Dizon’s experience in public service as a valuable asset in addressing pressing transportation challenges and accelerating infrastructure projects.

“The new DOTr chief can count on our support in bringing relief to our commuting public and lasting solutions to our transportation sector,” she added.

Meanwhile, Senator Joel Villanueva underscored Dizon’s extensive background in government as an advantage in tackling critical transportation concerns, including traffic congestion, safety, and infrastructure development.

“We look forward to working with the agency under Secretary Dizon’s leadership, particularly in tackling the country’s traffic challenges, ensuring safe and efficient transport, and advancing transportation infrastructure,” Villanueva said.

Senate Deputy Majority Leader Joseph Victor Ejercito also lauded Dizon’s appointment, expressing confidence in his capability to push forward transport modernization and infrastructure initiatives.

“I congratulate Secretary Vivencio ‘Vince’ Dizon on his appointment as the new Secretary of the Department of Transportation. As a staunch advocate of infrastructure development and transport modernization, I look forward to working with him to fast-track the completion of major projects that will benefit millions of Filipinos,” Ejercito said.

He emphasized the need to sustain key transportation initiatives, such as the Metro Manila Subway Project, the North-South Commuter Railway, the Mindanao Railway, and the modernization of the country’s airports.

“These projects will bring a more efficient, modern, and reliable transportation system to our country,” he added.

The senators also extended their gratitude to Bautista for his service, acknowledging his dedication to improving the country’s transportation systems.

“Having worked closely with him as the one defending the agency’s budget last year, I have seen firsthand his commitment to improving our transport infrastructure. We appreciate his contributions and wish him well – get well soon, Sec. Jaime,” Ejercito said.