The Department of Transportation (DOTr) on Thursday announced the appointment of several key officials to bolster the leadership of Transport Secretary Vince Dizon in advancing critical transportation infrastructure projects. The new appointments are seen as pivotal in accelerating the completion of high-priority projects aimed at easing commuter congestion and improving the nation’s transport network.
In a move that underscores President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s commitment to transportation reform, the following individuals were appointed: Giovanni Z. Lopez as undersecretary for administration, finance, and procurement; Mark Steven C. Pastor as undersecretary for road transport and infrastructure; Jim C. Sydiongco as undersecretary for aviation and airports; Ramon G. Reyes as undersecretary for road transport and non-Infrastructure; and Dioscoro T. Reyes as assistant secretary for road transport and non-infrastructure.
Lopez, Pastor, and Sydiongco are familiar faces at the DOTr, having served during the previous administration under President Duterte. Their continued presence is seen as a stabilizing force as they bring valuable experience to the table in pushing forward the government’s ambitious transport agenda.
Additionally, Teodorico Jose R. Delfin was appointed undersecretary for planning and project development, while Raul L. Del Rosario was named acting director general and acting member of the board of directors of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP). Villamor Ventura S. Plan was appointed assistant secretary for maritime.
Secretary Dizon, who issued a memo on 24 February 2025 requesting the “unqualified courtesy resignation” of all incumbent undersecretaries, assistant secretaries, and directors at the DOTr by 26 February 2025, is taking aggressive steps to streamline operations and ensure the effective implementation of the country’s flagship transportation projects.
In line with the president’s directive, Dizon also introduced a new initiative—the Flagship Project Management Office (FPMO)—to fast-track the delivery of key infrastructure projects. The DOTr-FPMO, as outlined in Department Order 2025-002, will oversee the implementation and monitoring of high-priority projects such as the Metro Manila Subway, North-South Commuter Railway, and the Cebu and Davao Public Transport Modernization projects, among others.
The establishment of the FPMO highlights the administration’s focus on enhancing physical connectivity, reducing travel time, and improving commuter experiences. The office will ensure that timelines are met, resources are maximized, and all stakeholders are aligned in the pursuit of the nation’s transportation goals. Dizon will personally oversee the progress of these critical projects, signaling his hands-on leadership in driving the success of these initiatives.
Through these strategic appointments and the establishment of the FPMO, the DOTr aims to strengthen its capacity to deliver on its promises and meet the growing demands for efficient and reliable transportation systems across the Philippines.
