In a DZRH interview on Wednesday, newly-appointed Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Vince Dizon confirmed that around 400 engineers have resigned from the agency in the past six to eight months. 

The mass resignation, he said, was primarily due to administrative challenges, including salary delays.  

“Engineers are highly sought because their skills are in demand… So naturally, they receive offers from the private sector with better salaries, and they can no longer endure the occasional delays,” the 50-year-old transportation chief said.

Dizon expressed concern over the situation and said he is actively encouraging remaining DOTr employees to continue their public service. 

“We are assuring them that there won’t be any problems anymore like salary delays,” he added.  

The interview also touched on reports that contractual employees have not received their salaries for two months. 

While Dizon did not confirm the exact number, he acknowledged that delays have occurred.  

“This issue has been raised during briefings. Our new team needs to come in so that we can really speed things up, like getting paid immediately... because that's the most important thing for me.

“This issue has been raised during briefings. That’s why we need our new team to come in as soon as possible to expedite salary processing,” he said. 

“Our people are our priority because I cannot run these projects alone.” 

When asked about alleged midnight appointments by some remaining officials, Dizon did not provide a direct confirmation. 

Rather, he emphasized the importance of a smooth transition and the appointment of new officials.  

“The important thing is that the transition goes smoothly. We are just waiting for our recommended appointees to be approved by our esteemed President so we can move forward seamlessly. Technically, I am still the only one in place at DOTr,” he said.  

Dizon remains optimistic that the necessary appointments will be finalized soon, which will  ensure a fully functional team to address these issues.