New DoTr chief vows swift infra projects

Newly appointed Department of Transportation (DoTr) Secretary Vince Dizon vowed to accelerate major infrastructure projects and expand privatization efforts to improve the country’s transportation system.

Dizon, who took over from outgoing Secretary Jaime Bautista, stressed the need for continuity and speed, comparing the transition to a relay race.

“This is critical because I think that is the way to go,” Dizon said during the agency’s turnover ceremony, highlighting the administration’s push for privatization.

“Secretary Bautista can be assured that we will push that forward,” he added.

Dizon praised Bautista for initiating a “massive privatization” effort, citing projects such as the modernization of Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) and the privatization of Laguindingan and Bohol-Panglao international airports.

He said privatizing road and railway transport infrastructure would be key to improving services.

The operations and maintenance (O&M) of the EDSA Busway and MRT-3 are slated for privatization. The busway’s feasibility study is expected to be completed within months, with an award targeted by the end of 2026.

Meantime, the MRT-3’s terms of reference for both solicited and unsolicited proposals are being finalized by the Public-Private Partnership Center, Asian Development Bank and DoTr.

Dizon also pledged to fast-track ongoing infrastructure projects, including the North-South Commuter Railway, Metro Manila Subway, EDSA Greenways Project, and continued regional airport privatization.

“Let’s roll up our sleeves and let’s get to work to get things done,” Dizon said.