DOTr Acting Secretary Giovanni Lopez (Dexter Barro II/MANILA BULLETIN)
A group of transport network vehicles lauded the appointment of Giovanni Lopez as acting secretary of the Department of Transportation (DOTr), saying his professionalism will be a big boost to continue the vital reforms in the country’s transportation system.
Lawyer John Nabua, spokesperson of the United Transportation Coalition Philippines said Lopez’s extensive institutional experience makes him fully understand the situation on the ground and connect it with the policy-making on top.
“We warmly congratulate Secretary Banoy Lopez on this well-deserved appointment. He is an excellent choice to lead the DOTr at this critical juncture for the transport sector. Having worked with him during his tenure as Undersecretary for Administration, I personally witnessed his professionalism, his deep institutional knowledge, and his genuine concern for stakeholders,” said Nabua
“At that time, I was serving as a consultant for the Land Transportation Office, and we often collaborated on key issues. I can attest that his steady leadership and grasp of the sector will serve the public well,” he added.
Former DOTr Secretary Vince Dizon, in a press briefing on Wednesday after the turnover ceremony, said he only recommended one name as his successor to President Marcos, and that is Lopez.
Nabua emphasized that Lopez’s extensive institutional experience positions him strongly to continue vital reforms in the transportation system.
The group also underscored its longstanding advocacy for a greener, more modernized public transport sector.
“As an organization representing over 80,000 TNVS drivers nationwide, we look forward to constructive engagement with Secretary Lopez on pressing issues affecting drivers, operators, and commuters. We strongly support the deployment of more electric vehicles, including modern electric jeepneys, as part of the country’s transition to sustainable mobility,” Nabua underscored.
He said the group is ready to work closely with the DOTr under Lopez’s stewardship.
“With its broad base of drivers and operators nationwide, the Coalition stands as a vital partner in shaping a transport sector that is inclusive, efficient, and environmentally sustainable,” said Nabua.