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Malacanang announced the appointment of former Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) President Vivencio “Vince” Dizon as the new Department of Transportation (DOTr) head starting February 21, 2025.

Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin said Dizon will replace resigned DOTr Secretary Jaime Bautista.

Malacanang said Bautista resigned due to health reasons.

Aside from BCDA Dizon previously served as CEO and Presidential Adviser for COVID-19 Response under the Duterte administration.

Dizon has already given the authority by the Office of the President to start the transition at the DOTr” in coordination with Bautista’s team, Bersamin said.

In a statement, DOTr confirmed that Bautista is stepping down to give attention to his health.

“Sec. Bautista thanked the President for the opportunity to work in government which Bautista considered his most challenging stint,” it said.

It added that Bautista also called his first government post “most enriching, having served with utmost integrity.”

“Sec. Bautista looks forward to a smooth transition, after which a much needed vacation to recuperate from two and a half years of intense public service,” the DOTr said.