Former Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) chief Vivencio “Vince” Dizon has been appointed as the new Secretary of the Department of Transportation (DOTr), Malacañang confirmed earlier today. Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin announced that Dizon will assume the role effective 21 February 2025, replacing outgoing DOTr Secretary Jaime Bautista, who resigned due to health reasons.
Bersamin stated that Dizon has been authorized by the Office of the President to begin the transition process in coordination with Bautista’s team. The DOTr also confirmed Bautista’s departure, with the outgoing secretary expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve. Bautista described his tenure as both challenging and enriching, emphasizing his commitment to public service. He now looks forward to a smooth transition and a much-needed break after two and a half years in government.
Dizon, known for his work in infrastructure development, previously played a key role in the “Build, Build, Build” program under the Duterte administration. He also served as the deputy chief implementer of the National Task Force Against COVID-19 and held advisory positions in major government projects. His extensive experience in urban planning, private sector engagement, and infrastructure development has been cited as a valuable asset for his new role.
The appointment has been met with strong support from lawmakers. Senator Grace Poe, vice chairman of the Senate Public Services Committee, expressed confidence in Dizon’s ability to implement urgently needed reforms and projects. Senator JV Ejercito, who sponsors the DOTr’s budget in the Senate, also welcomed the appointment, hoping for the fast-tracking of key infrastructure initiatives.
Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada and Senators Joel Villanueva and JV Ejercito similarly praised Dizon’s credentials, emphasizing his expertise in transportation and infrastructure. House leaders, including Deputy Majority Leader Franz Pumaren, and Ways and Means Committee Chair Joey Salceda, also endorsed the appointment, citing Dizon’s track record of efficiency and project execution.
Meanwhile, the commuter group The Passenger Forum acknowledged both the progress and setbacks of Bautista’s tenure. The group called on Dizon to prioritize meaningful reforms and shift away from car-centric policies, expressing cautious optimism about his leadership.
Dizon holds a degree in Political Science from De La Salle University, where he graduated with honors. He later pursued further studies in public administration and policy, enhancing his expertise in governance and infrastructure planning.
The incoming DOTr Secretary has been associated with several controversies during his tenure as President and CEO of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA). In October 2020, a graft and malversation complaint was filed against Dizon and others concerning an allegedly irregular agreement with a Malaysian firm for the construction of sports facilities used in the 2019 Southeast Asian Games. The complaint alleged that the deal violated government procurement laws. Dizon and the BCDA have denied any wrongdoing, asserting that the project adhered to legal processes.
In addition, during a Senate discussion in November 2019, Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon criticized the PHP50-million cauldron used in the SEA Games, describing it as extravagant. Drilon later apologized to Dizon for incorrectly stating that Dizon was related to the cauldron’s designer, the late architect Francisco “Bobby” Mañosa.