Former PCG chief takes helm of CPA

A RETIRED Philippine Coast Guard chief yesterday took over as the new general manager of the Cebu Ports Authority (CPA).

Ret. Vice Admiral Edmund Tan formally replaced Dennis R. Villamor as general manager of the agency.

“It is a homecoming for me. This is the third time that I am assigned in Cebu,” Tan said during yesterday’s press briefing.

Tan was referring to his two tours of duty in Cebu as a Coast Guard official in 1990 and 2008.

Tan retired last year after serving a year as the PCG commandant.

He said he was surprised by his appointment to head the CPA by President Benigno Aquino III.

“I am also challenged as I saw what Mr. Villamor has done to the Cebu Ports Authority,” Tan said.

Turnover Ceremony

Villamor, who was CPA general manager for more than two years, formally turned over the leadership of his office to Tan yesterday by presenting the CPA’s paddle and safety helmet.

“This paddle symbolizes a commitment to Mega Cebu in making waves while this safety helmet will be to remind you sir to be safe at all times,” said Villamor as he handed the symbols to Tan.

Villamor said that after 37 years in the government service he will take a long vacation but if ever Cebuanos and the CPA needs his help he will always be available.

Undersecretary Julianito Bucayan Jr. of the Department of Transportation and Communication, who attended the turnover yesterday praised Villamor for his professionalism and achievements at the Cebu port.

Ongoing projects of the CPA include the passenger terminal, container terminals, strengthening of ports outside Cebu, installation of a Vessel Traffic Management System (VTMS). /Correspondent Michelle Joy L. Padayhag