Go backs Dizon, pushes Visayas-Mindanao transport priorities

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go on Tuesday expressed full support for the confirmation of Vince Dizon as Secretary of the Department of Transportation (DOTr), while also challenging the agency to prioritize long-overdue infrastructure projects in the Visayas and Mindanao.

Go urged the DOTr to build on the momentum of the Duterte administration’s “Build, Build, Build” program to ensure inclusive national development, especially for regions outside Metro Manila.

“Mr. Secretary, I appeal to you to capitalize on the gains of the Build, Build, Build Program of the previous administration to ensure that no one will be left behind in the road towards recovery,” Go said. “Please continue implementing meaningful projects, especially those that will bring relief to our commuting public.”

He cited key regional initiatives such as the Cebu Bus Rapid Transit System, the Mindanao Railway Project, and the ongoing construction of Mati Airport in Davao Oriental as crucial to improving regional connectivity.

“Please don’t neglect the implementation of the Mindanao Railway Project and the construction of Mati Airport in Davao Oriental — both are vital for development,” Go said.

“In Cebu, there are also projects that need your attention. Traffic in the Visayas and Mindanao is starting to feel like Metro Manila. I’m sure you’ll find ways to fix that,” he added.

Go, a member of the Senate Committees on Public Services and on Public Works, emphasized the need for leadership that prioritizes ordinary Filipinos.

“I hope you always consider the welfare of ordinary drivers and workers in your decisions,” he said. “I know you’re competent and resourceful — use those qualities for the benefit of our less fortunate countrymen.”

The senator also recalled Dizon’s accomplishments during the Duterte administration, including his time as president and CEO of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), where he helped generate P48 billion in revenue and approximately 400,000 jobs.

He also lauded Dizon’s role during the pandemic, when he served as testing czar and deputy chief implementer of the National Task Force against COVID-19.

“While others were afraid of getting exposed to the virus, he would personally come to visit you. That’s how action-oriented he is,” Go said.

“With your proven track record, Secretary Vince, I am confident that you will lead the DOTr with integrity, vision, and excellence. We will support you, as long as your heart is with the Filipino people — especially those at the margins of society,” he added.

In response, Dizon assured the public that infrastructure programs will not just continue but will be completed under his leadership.

“President Marcos’s clear directive is that all projects that will help our fellow Filipinos should not just be continued — they must be completed,” Dizon said.

With Go’s endorsement and the Commission on Appointments’ approval, Dizon’s appointment as DOTr Secretary signals renewed efforts toward inclusive transportation development nationwide.