The Department of Transportation (DOTr) officially welcomed Gilbert Cruz as the new Administrator III of the Office for Transportation Security (OTS), following his appointment by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
DOTr Acting Secretary Giovanni Lopez led the swearing-in ceremony. Administrator Cruz previously served as the Executive Director of the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC).
Acting Secretary Lopez expressed strong confidence in the new leadership, emphasizing the immediate security priorities.
“Our President has ordered us to always ensure the safety and security of passengers, especially now that Undas and the Holiday season are approaching. We must further strengthen security measures, and I have full confidence in our new OTS Administrator,” said Acting Sec. Lopez. “I believe that he will carry out his duties with integrity, dedication, and excellence.”
In accepting the mandate, Administrator Cruz outlined his commitment to overseeing the entire transportation domain.
“The order given to us is to look at the security of our passengers and the facilities they use for transportation,” Administrator Cruz stated. “We will focus on securing air transportation, specifically entry and exit points, as well as our maritime and rail sectors. Our priority will always be the safety of both our passengers and those who operate these systems.”
The appointment of Administrator Cruz is effective immediately, ensuring the OTS can swiftly implement enhanced security protocols across all public transport sectors in anticipation of increased passenger volume during the upcoming holidays.
