The Philippine Coastwise Shipping Association Inc. (PCSA), the country’s largest organization of shipowners and ship operators, has thrown its support behind Department of Transportation Secretary Jaime J. Bautista and has denounced the allegations of corruption against the official.
PCSA chairman Lucio Roger E. Lim Jr. and organization president Paul Y. Rodriguez issued a joint statement underlining their faith in Bautista’s leadership at the agency.
According to the PCSA, a group representing over 50 members and more than 800 vessels, the maritime community recognizes Bautista’s efforts the past 15 months and noted his “entrepreneurial spirit and profound commitment to addressing both local and global challenges faced by our maritime sector.”
They emphasized Bautista’s dedication to “national security, robust economic growth, and the creation of a holistic and sustainable transportation ecosystem,” aligning his core values of “vision, courage, prudence, integrity, and unwavering commitment to the public good.”
The statement comes in the wake of accusations led by Mar Valbuena, chairman of transport group Manibela, linking Bautista to corruption issues within the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board.
The PCSA dismissed Valbuena’s allegations as unfounded and part of a smear campaign aimed at tarnishing Bautista’s reputation.
“The lack of evidence and the recantation of statements by the accuser highlight the malicious intent behind these allegations. The lasting smear on Secretary Bautista’s reputation, further fueled by traditional and social media, is a matter of concern for us,” the PCSA said.
Reflecting on Bautista’s management of the DOTr, the PCSA said his leadership as the helm is “transparent, ethical, and professional” in stark contrast to the allegations made against the agency chief.
“Bautista’s acceptance of the demanding role of DOTr Secretary came with significant personal sacrifices, yet he took on the responsibility with grace and dedication. His career, spanning numerous years, remains free from any corrupt undertakings,” the group added.
“We vehemently denounce the baseless character assassination targeted at Secretary Bautista. His integrity, professionalism, and sincere intentions for the nation’s advancement command our deepest respect and support,” the group said.
“We remain steadfast with Secretary Bautista, endorsing his relentless pursuit of excellence not only for the maritime industry but for the entire Filipino populace.”
