Senators on Monday welcomed President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s appointment of Vince Dizon as secretary of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), saying his leadership could mark a turning point for the scandal-plagued agency.
“The hands-on approach and fresh perspective he brings will serve him well in confronting the deeply entrenched problems that have long plagued the DPWH,” said Senate President Francis Escudero as he welcomed Dizon’s appointment.
“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,” he added.
The Senate chief assured that the upper chamber stands ready to support initiatives ensuring projects are delivered efficiently, transparently, and with full accountability.
Senator Panfilo Lacson called the move both a “hard decision and a good choice,” citing Dizon’s tireless work ethic during his stint addressing transport sector problems.
“I have watched and followed Vince Dizon’s indefatigable, almost daily effort to solve the numerous problems that beset the transportation sector,” he said.
Senator Erwin Tulfo pointed to Dizon’s efficiency during his first six months leading the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and said it is the kind of leadership the country needs today.
“With so much information surfacing about irregularities in flood control projects, we need a secretary who is aggressive and does not ignore the evidence. What is required is immediate action, not excuses,” he said.
Tulfo urged the new secretary to dismantle alleged collusion between contractors and public officials once and for all.
Senator JV Ejercito, meanwhile, cautioned that Dizon faces a daunting task in restoring the public’s faith in DPWH, adding that turning the agency around may require more than determination alone.
Ejercito nevertheless expressed support, saying Dizon will need both political backing and a stroke of luck to succeed.
“He can count on our support on this new assignment,” he assured.
Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada earlier praised Dizon’s leadership track record at the transportation department, expressing hope he will end unacceptable practices in public works projects.
Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva called the appointment pivotal, pointing to Dizon’s no-nonsense style and the full confidence of the President as key assets in cleaning up DPWH.
Senator Loren Legarda also extended support, saying she hopes Dizon would promote transparency and safeguard the public good in his new post.
With expectations high, lawmakers agreed that the incoming secretary must deliver swift and visible reforms to repair the reputation of one of the country’s most embattled agencies.
