Emission testing center owners group throws support to Bautista amid corruption claims

MANILA: The Private Emission Testing Center Owners Association (PETCOA) expressed its support to Department of Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista amid the corruption allegations against the agency.

PETCOA Chairman Bernardo Chang, Jr. said that the accusations are "sensationalized unsubstantiated."

He also acknowledged the contributions of Bautista in the emission testing industry in the Philippines.

Along with PETCOA, former Flight Attendants and Stewards Association of the Philippines (FASAP) President Bob Anduiza also declared his support to Bautista.

Although they had serious disagreements when Bautista was the president of Philippine Airlines, Anduiza said that the DOTr secretary has always remained "respectable and forthright."

"The one thing you can never accuse Secretary Bautista of is being corrupt and dishonorable," Anduiza stated.

Earlier, the Vehicle Inspection Center Operators Association of the Philippines announced its support to Bautista.

Transport groups also vouched for the integrity of Bautista. Liga ng Transportasyon Operators sa Pilipinas President Orlando Marquez, Alliance of Concerned Transport National President Liberty Deluna, Pasang Masda President Ka Obet Martin, Alliance of Transport Operators and Drivers Association of the Philippines President Melencio Vargas, Stop-n-Go President Zaldy Ping-ay, and Federation of Jeepney Operators and Drivers Association of the Philippines President Jephraim Gochangco stated in a manifesto that they would not participate in the nationwide transport strike today.

In a previous statement, Bautista vehemently denied that he accepted money or favor in his  term as the DOTr secretary. He said that he will file charges against those who involve his name in corrupt practices.

Photo from Department of  Transportation

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