OTS chief submits courtesy resignation

MANILA, Philippines — Office for Transportation Security (OTS) Administrator Ma. O Aplasca yesterday submitted his courtesy resignation to President Marcos through Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Jaime Bautista.

“In view of the pronouncement of Congressman Romualdez that he will personally block the approval of the budget of OTS and DOTr, I have come to this decision to officially submit my courtesy resignation for the consideration of SOTr and the President. I am not in any way ready to sacrifice my organization but I consider this as a noble undertaking for a greater interest,” Aplasca stated in his letter, referring to Speaker Martin Romualdez.

“May I however state that as Administrator of OTS, I have done nothing wrong but to wage an honest campaign against corruption in all our airports nationwide. I feel it is a sacred duty of every head of any government agency expressed and solemnized when we take an oath,” Aplasca added.

The beleaguered OTS chief lamented that it is unfortunate that as the agency weeds out scalawags in its ranks, “it will always draw media attention and tarnish the reputation of our country.”

“But I can assure His Excellency that the good men and women of OTS will not falter in their commitment to cleanse its ranks to finally deliver on its promise of a convenient, affordable, safe and secured transportation system,” he said.

In closing his courtesy resignation letter, Aplasca thanked Marcos and Bautista for giving him the opportunity to serve the Filipino people.

Aplasca made the decision after Romualdez, citing “command responsibility,” demanded his resignation last Monday for failing to stop repeated illegal activities by security personnel, specifically alleged theft involving