Shippers back Bautista amid LTFRB controversy

The besieged head of the Department of Transportation, or DoTr, received another strong backing from stakeholders amid the ongoing corruption controversy in the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board.

The Philippine Coastwise Shipping Association Inc., or PCSA, has publicly denounced the corruption allegations against Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista, as they emphasized the group's support

Chairperson Lucio Roger Lim Jr. and president Paul Rodriguez of the PCSA, representing the country's largest organization of shipowners and ship operators with over fifty members and more than eight hundred vessels, issued a joint statement underlining their faith in Bautista's leadership.

In the statement, the PCSA lauded Bautista's efforts over the last 15 months, noting his "entrepreneurial spirit and profound commitment to addressing both the local and global challenges faced by our maritime sector."

They emphasized Bautista's dedication to "national security, robust economic growth, and the creation of a holistic and sustainable transportation ecosystem," aligning with his core values of "vision, courage, prudence, integrity, and unwavering commitment to the public good."

The endorsement comes in the wake of accusations led by Mar Valbuena, chairman of transport group Manibela, linking Bautista to corruption issues within the line agency.

The PCSA dismissed Valbuena's allegations as unfounded and part of a smear campaign aimed to tarnish Bautista's reputation.

"The lack of evidence and the recantation of statements by the accuser highlight the malicious intent behind these allegations. The lasting smear on Secretary Bautista's reputation, further fueled by traditional and social media, is a matter of concern for us," the PCSA remarked.

In response to the accusations, Bautista filed cyber libel complaints against Valbuena earlier this week, underlining his resolve to safeguard his name and reputation.

Bautista's management of the DoTr, the PCSA described, is "transparent, ethical, and professional," contradicting the allegations made against him.

Sterling record cited

"Bautista's acceptance of the demanding role of DoTr Secretary came with significant personal sacrifices, yet he took on the responsibility with grace and dedication. His career, spanning numerous years, remains free from any corrupt undertakings," the group added.

Further, the PCSA acknowledged Bautista's unwavering mission "to modernize, elevate, and usher in an era of enhanced efficiency within the governmental sector," drawing parallels with his consistent high performance in the private sector.

The PCSA affirmed their stance with Bautista, asserting that he has become a target for individuals with ulterior motives.

"We vehemently denounce the baseless character assassinations targeted at Secretary Bautista. His integrity, professionalism, and sincere intentions for the nation's advancement command our deepest respect and support," the group expressed.

"We remain steadfast with Secretary Bautista, endorsing his relentless pursuit of excellence not only for the maritime industry but for the entire Filipino populace," it added.