Lawmaker slams DOTr chief for lack of talks on Roxas City Airport plan

Vince Dizon —PHOTO FROM DOTR FB PAGE

MANILA, Philippines — Pinuno Rep. Ivan Howard Guintu on Monday criticized Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon for his alleged failure to consult stakeholders concerning the redevelopment of Roxas City Airport in the province of Capiz.

In a statement, Guintu welcomed the renewed pledge of support Dizon made for the redevelopment of the Roxas City Airport in Capiz, Panay, however, the lawmaker also pointed out that Dizon failed to actually consult him and other stakeholders regarding the project.

Guintu pointed out that he has been an open advocate for the project, raising concerns about the airport and how it has never received any major upgrade since its construction almost 70 years ago.

READ: Lawmaker wants two major transport hubs in Roxas City renovated

“Why Secretary Dizon failed to at least give due course to calls and representations made by Congressman Guintu to the DOTr (Department of Transportation) relative to this important advocacy remains a puzzle to the partylist representative,” his office said.

“Unless, it is the intention of the good Secretary to disregard the efforts of a sitting member of the House of Representatives and discount Congressman Guintu’s efforts to assist the DOTr in improving the facilities of an airport under its care, which is hoped to be not,” it added.

Guintu then noted that he understands the complexity of Dizon’s job as cabinet secretary, but insisted that the official should still be thorough in his inspections, conducting proper consultations involving all stakeholders.

“It is expected that this lightning of a visit by Secretary Dizon to the airport should not in any way define his commitment to redevelop the facility and disappear as quick as the sound of thunder,” Guintu’s office said.

“More importantly, it should not be a propaganda to promote a person who for the longest time has not hinted at any concern on the development of the airport until this visit by the Transportation Secretary,” it added.

INQUIRER.net has sought Dizon for a comment but has yet to respond as of writing.