Senators welcomed the appointment of former Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon as the new head of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), expressing hope that his leadership would bring long-overdue reforms and eliminate corruption in the agency.
Senate President Francis Escudero acknowledged the challenges Dizon faces but called it an opportunity to address DPWH’s long-standing issues.
“Rooting out corruption is just the first step, because equally important is ensuring that all DPWH projects serve their purpose and truly improve the lives of our countrymen,” Escudero said, adding that the Senate is ready to support reforms for more efficient and transparent public works.
Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada praised Dizon’s track record at the Department of Transportation and expressed optimism about his leadership.
“Umaasa ako na sa ilalim ng panunungkulan ni Sec. Vince ay matutuldukan na ang mga hindi katanggap-tanggap na kalakaran sa pagpapatupad ng mga proyekto ng DPWH,” Estrada said.
Estrada also lamented the resignation of former DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan, commending his integrity but noting that lower-ranking officials involved in “ghost projects” undermined his leadership.
Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva described Dizon’s appointment as “pivotal in cleansing the agency,” citing his “no-nonsense approach to governance” and the President’s full trust in him. Senator Panfilo Lacson called the decision a “hard but good choice,” praising Dizon’s strong work ethic.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian referred to Dizon as an “action man and a man of integrity,” urging him to prioritize jailing corrupt officials and contractors to restore public trust.
Senator JV Ejercito acknowledged the “daunting task” ahead, saying, “I wish him well and all the luck because he would need lots of it, maybe even a miracle, to turn around the embattled department.”
Senator Erwin Tulfo emphasized the need for swift action.
“Pag may reklamo, hindi pinapatagal, agad inaaksyunan. ‘Yan ang klase ng liderato na kailangan natin ngayon,” Tulfo said, adding that Dizon must act aggressively to address irregularities in flood control projects and end collusion among contractors and officials.
Senator Loren Legarda also expressed support for Dizon, saying, “We are here to help him achieve our goal of transparency, and upholding the public good.”
