Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) General Manager Nicolas Torre III has left the door open for a potential bid for public office in the 2028 elections, revealing that he is “trying to be ready” if an opportunity presents itself, even as he emphasized that his primary focus remains on his duties at the agency.
Speculation over a potential political run intensified after road safety posters featuring Torre’s face were spotted in Isabela province. During a television interview, Torre addressed questions regarding whether the display was a deliberate effort to build his public profile ahead of the 2028 polls.
The posters, which bore the safety reminder “Ingat sa daan,” were backed by a private firm, Torre explained.
He said the company chose to feature his image in the belief that it would draw greater attention from motorists.
“There was one company, okay. Makita naman natin sa ating mga posters kung anong company ‘yan. Well, they believe that my face is something that will attract motorists to their message na ingat sa daan. And, well, to some extent, I don’t have any argument on that,” he said.
The former police chief noted that the agreement proved beneficial for both sides, as it provided significant visibility for the sponsor while expanding the reach of the road safety message.
“Nakita mo naman na ang mileage na nakuha nila doon is napakalaki rin. And on my part, kung maipadala naman natin, ma-send naman natin ang message, there’s nothing wrong with that,” he added.
Despite acknowledging his openness to future political opportunities, the MMDA official reiterated that his current priority remains fulfilling his present responsibilities.