President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has directed the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to conduct an investigation into the purchase and installation of safety bollards at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), following a deadly accident that resulted in the deaths of two people.
Several individuals have claimed that the bollards failed to stop a sports utility vehicle (SUV), which ultimately drove into the pedestrian zone of the terminal.
According to Palace Press Officer Claire Castro, the bollards were installed in 2019 under the leadership of then-DOTr Secretary Arthur Tugade.
“It is heartbreaking that lives were lost due to the reportedly defective bollards installed at NAIA Terminal 1. These were installed during the previous administration, under the leadership of Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade. The President has ordered an investigation into the procurement process and its implications. Secretary Vince Dizon will immediately address this issue,” Castro stated.
Additionally, President Marcos instructed transportation agencies to conduct a nationwide audit of bus operators. The audit will ensure compliance with safety and maintenance standards, and sanctions will be imposed on those who fail to meet these requirements.
