Tugade’s son assumes LTO post

MANILA, Philippines — The son of former transport secretary Arthur Tugade yesterday officially took the helm of the Land Transportation Office (LTO) following a short-lived stint at the Manila International Airport Authority.

Jose Arturo Tugade was installed as chief of the LTO during a turnover ceremony at the agency’s central office in Quezon City. He replaced Teofilo Guadiz, who was designated assistant secretary of the Department of Transportation for the road sector.

Tugade vowed to lead efforts in utilizing the latest technologies to serve the public.

He also promised to go after corrupt LTO employees and push for a digitalized agency to process documents such as motor vehicle registration and driver’s license applications.

“The days of corruption in the agency are numbered. I will continue to tread the path laid down by Assistant Secretary Guadiz for a fully digitalized, transparent and corrupt-free LTO in the future,” Tugade said.

He said he would intensify the LTO’s programs on road safety.

“We need roads that are safe not only for motorists but also for pedestrians and the general public, especially the children,” Tugade said.

He said he would push for the regularization of LTO employees who are under job order or contract of service.