'Replace Bautista as Marina chief'

MANILA, Philippines - Agusan del Sur Rep. Rodolfo “Ompong” Plaza yesterday asked President Arroyo to replace Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) administrator Ma. Elena Bautista with someone knowledgeable of maritime affairs.

Plaza, who is running as senator under the banner of the Pwersa ng Masang Pilipino-United Opposition, said Mrs. Arroyo should immediately replace Bautista following a Supreme Court (SC) ruling on the “unconstitutionality” of her “dual positions” in government.

“Finally, it’s a vindication. I have repeatedly pointed out that she (Bautista) could not hold two positions at the same time and that Ms. Bautista was never fit for her job in Marina. The President should now appoint a more competent administrator who is more knowledgeable of the dynamics of the maritime industry,” he said.

Plaza said the SC decision was timely, as the shipping industry remains beset with problems such as rampant sea tragedies that had claimed hundreds of lives.

“All these sea tragedies and deaths occurred under Bautista’s watch,” he said. – Jose Rodel Clapano