Senator Grace Poe, chairman of the Senate committee on public services, on Friday stressed that Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade cannot be forced to explain the reasons cited by his Undersecretary Cesar Chavez in tendering his resignation from the department on Thursday.
Chavez said he quit his job at the Department of Transportation due to the lack of teamwork, indecisiveness, and lack of support from the DoTr leadership on programs and reforms to rehabilitate the Metro Rail Transit 3 train line.
“We cannot compel Secretary Tugade to clarify matters on the resignation of Usec. Chavez unless it is during a Senate hearing, which we will conduct after priority bills in the Senate are passed this year,” said Poe.
On the other hand, the senator said Chavez’s reasons, if true, are worrisome.
“If there is no harmony or clear leadership from the top in the DoTr, how can we expect them to deliver on all their proposed projects, upgrades and development plans?” asked Poe.
She said Chavez is instrumental in bringing to light many maintenance issues of the MRT.
Compared to other DoTr officials, particularly Tugade, Poe said Chavez reached out to them and patiently explained matters about the MRT maintenance and operations.
“He had a better understanding of the situation. His resignation is truly unfortunate and a loss for the riding public,” said Poe.