DEPARTMENT of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Jaime Bautista on Wednesday, October 11, 2023, vehemently denied any involvement in corrupt activities.
In a video message posted on DOTr’s Facebook page, Bautista said he is planning to file formal complaints against those “maligning” him, saying that he intends to "strongly defend the truth and my name.”
“I am saddened by the baseless accusations being thrown at me that I’m involved in corruption. Please allow me to categorically say that I never accepted any money or favor since assuming the post of Transportation secretary,” Bautista said.
“When I took the helm of the Department of Transportation, I vowed to serve the country and the Filipino people with integrity, which to me is more precious than any material wealth,” he added.
Bautista made the statement amid accusations of corruption in the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).
Earlier, Jeffrey Tumbado, former executive assistant of LTFRB Chairman Teofilo Guadiz III, claimed that the LTFRB official is accepting grease money amounting to P5 million for modification of route, issuance of special permit and prioritization of franchise papers.
Tumbado expressed belief that Guadiz is not acting solely for himself but rather under orders from higher authorities, including the DOTr and the Malacañang.
He said that he possesses audio recordings and screenshots of message exchanges with individuals involved, which serve as evidence. <b>(SunStar Philippines)</b>