In this Aug. 10, 2016 photo, DOTr representatives attended the hearing led by Secretary Tugade, USec Bobby Lim and Noel Kintanar. Senate PRIB/Albert Calvelo
MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Transportation on Wednesday confirmed that Noel Kintanar has resigned as undersecretary for rails.
In a statement, the transport agency said DOTr chief Arthur Tugade has accepted Kintanar’s resignation, which takes effect on Nov. 29, 2016.
“Mr. Kintanar said he would like to give Secretary Tugade a free hand in addressing any and all misconceptions or doubts as to the impartiality and independence of the DOTr in addressing the many issues and concerns on transportation,” the statement read.
Reports said DOTr Assistant Secretary Cesar Chavez likewise confirmed that Kintanar resigned from his post. He said he was already appointed as a permanent representative to Light Rail Transit Authority and Philippine National Railways Boards but said he is not yet assuming he will replace Kintanar.
Kintanar was appointed transport undersecretary on June 20.
He was assistant vice president (AVP) and executive director of Ayalaland Corporation for nine years since 2007, and COO of AC Infrastructure Holdings Corp. since 2012.
Kintanar graduated from the University of the Philippines with a Bachelor of Science in Community Development before studying and graduating from Harvard with a Master’s degree in Public Administration.
—Rosette Adel and Kristian Javier