THE Philippine Coastwise Shipping Association Inc. (PCSA) on Saturday expressed its support for Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista amid allegations of corruption.

“The lack of evidence and the recantation of statements by the accuser highlight the malicious intent behind these allegations. The lasting smear on Secretary Bautista’s reputation, further fueled by traditional and social media, is a matter of concern for us,” the PCSA said in a statement sent to The Manila Times signed by its chairman Lucio Roger Lim Jr. and president Paul Rodriguez.

Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista. (PHOTO: MIKE ALQUINTO)

“We vehemently denounce the baseless character assassinations targeted at Secretary Bautista. His integrity, professionalism, and sincere intentions for the nation’s advancement command our deepest respect and support. We remain steadfast with Secretary Bautista, endorsing his relentless pursuit of excellence not only for the maritime industry but for the entire Filipino populace,” it added.

The PCSA issued the statement following the accusation of transport group Manibela chairman Mar Valbuena, linking Bautista to corruption inside the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board.

Bautista has denied the allegation and filed cyber libel complaints against Valbuena earlier this week.

The PCSA, in its statement, has lauded the efforts of the Department of Transportation during the last 15 months, noting Bautista’s commitment to addressing local and global challenges faced by the maritime sector.