DAVAO CITY (June 3) – The Commission on Appointments (CA) Committee on Transportation on Tuesday approved the ad interim appointment of Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Vince Dizon, who vowed to fast-track vital infrastructure projects aimed at easing the daily burdens of Filipino commuters.
Appearing before the panel, Dizon reaffirmed his commitment to carry out President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s marching orders to deliver safer, more efficient, and more comfortable public transportation systems across the country.
“In the past three months, we’ve tried to address even the smallest commuter issues. That’s our guiding principle in line with the President’s directive—and we will continue doing so,” Dizon told the committee during his confirmation hearing.
A longtime infrastructure strategist and former Presidential Adviser for Flagship Programs and Projects under the Duterte administration, Dizon played a key role in executing the “Build, Build, Build” program. He also previously served as President of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), where he oversaw large-scale infrastructure initiatives like New Clark City.
His appointment to DOTr reflects the Marcos administration’s desire for continuity and acceleration in transport development. Since assuming office as transportation secretary, Dizon has initiated reforms that focus on reducing travel time and improving commuter experience, especially in urban centers.
Dizon clarified the status of the suspended EDSA rehabilitation project, stressing that it was not canceled but temporarily halted to find a better and faster alternative.
“The President directed the DPWH, the lead agency in the EDSA rebuild, to go back to the drawing board. He wants a better approach—one that won’t take two years but can be done in six months,” Dizon explained.
He revealed that the projected cost of the EDSA rebuild could hit PHP8.7 billion by year-end and balloon to PHP15 billion if it extends to 2027.
Calling his interim appointment “humbling,” Dizon confirmed that his courtesy resignation was rejected by President Marcos, a move seen as a sign of continued confidence in his leadership.
“I am honored to serve as long as the President would have us,” Dizon said.
Meanwhile, the CA deferred deliberations on the ad interim appointments of DICT Secretary Henry Roel Aguda and PCO Secretary Jay Ruiz due to a lack of material time.
Edith Z Caduaya studied Bachelor of Science in Development Communication at the University of Southern Mindanao.
The chairperson of Mindanao Independent Press Council (MIPC) Inc.
