“While Nieves may not be the type who craves for media attention, this is arguably the very quality that makes him an effective leader for the OTS”
News about the Office for Transport Security (OTS), an agency under the Department of Transportation, rarely hits the headlines.
But that’s the way Undersecretary Crisaldo “Aldy” Nieves likes it. He is not one who seeks the spotlight, but his quiet yet decisive leadership at the OTS has been steadily steering the agency toward fulfilling its crucial role in safeguarding the nation’s public transport systems.
When Nieves was appointed Administrator of OTS last year, he has kept the agency largely under the radar. Despite its low public profile, OTS plays a vital role in ensuring the security of air, land and sea transport across the country.
Given the increasing complexity of our transport systems, and the attendant security threats, the agency needed a leader who could manage the risks and guide its strategic direction.
Nieves, a former general from the Philippine National Police Academy Class of 1989, is well-suited for this responsibility.
His background in law enforcement gives him a keen understanding of security dynamics, enabling him to approach the agency’s challenges with both a practical and strategic mindset. With a track record of handling sensitive operations, Nieves brings invaluable expertise to the OTS.
The job at hand is far from simple. The OTS must confront a range of security threats, from terrorism to more localized criminal activity, all while ensuring the smooth operation of public transport systems nationwide.
It’s a high-pressure environment, and the task of safeguarding Filipino passengers requires constant vigilance and adaptability.
Beyond external threats, however, Gen. Nieves also recognizes the pressing need for reform within the agency itself.
OTS is not without its internal challenges. As with any large organization, there are long-standing issues that require attention—ranging from inefficiencies to corruption.
Rotten tomatoes within the agency are an unfortunate reality, but Nieves is aware of the need to clean up systemic issues. His leadership will be measured by how effectively he addresses these internal problems while keeping the agency focused on its broader mandate.
One of the most significant tests of his leadership will be improving the agency’s public image.
OTS visibility may be low, but its work is critical to keeping the public safe and secure.
Restoring the public’s trust, especially after years of internal struggles, will take time and a strong, consistent approach from Nieves. His actions so far suggest he is moving the agency in the right direction, but rebuilding trust is never a quick fix.
While Nieves may not be the type who craves for media attention, this is arguably the very quality that makes him an effective leader for the OTS.
In an agency that has its own share of internal politics like any other in a complex bureaucracy, what is needed is a leader who can focus on the work rather than on personal accolades.
His understated, hands-on leadership style has been a refreshing change for OTS, an agency that has long been in need of a steady hand to guide it through many challenges.
Gen. Nieves may be the least visible figure in the Department of Transportation but his leadership at OTS is exactly what the agency needs.
Maybe he has taken to heart the sage advice to speak softly but carry a big stick, we don’t know.
But what’s clear is that his expertise, calm demeanor, and commitment to getting the job done speak volumes about his fitness for the job.
The trust placed in him by the administration seems well-founded, and as he continues to lead OTS, the agency is poised to strengthen its critical role in securing the nation’s transport systems.
Two towering intellectuals
I’m excitedly waiting for the forthcoming launching of books by two towering intellectuals of our time.
I’m referring to the late former UP President Francisco “Dodong” Nemenzo’s book “Notes from the Philippine Underground” will be launched in early February and what I understand is Walden Bello’s part-autobiography and part-history book will be published by the Ateneo Press and made available by Amazon in April.
If you’re interested in trenchant analysis of Philippines politics and economics in the postwar era to the present, you shouldn’t miss reading these two works.
(Email: ernhil@yahoo.com)