Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) General Manager Nicolas Torre III has taken a one-month leave from public office effective September 8, following an investigation into the improper use of the restricted EDSA Busway that uncovered additional traffic violations.
MMDA Chairman Don Artes confirmed the development, noting that Torre originally offered to retire entirely during a meeting on Monday, September 7, after facing heavy public scrutiny online.
However, Artes recommended that the former police general take a temporary leave instead to reflect on the incident, pointing to his valuable contributions to the agency’s daily operations.
“The MMDA respects Gen. Torre’s decision and wishes him well during his period of leave to give him sufficient time to reflect,” Artes said.
“I have full trust and confidence in GM Torre as far as his work is concerned. His commitment to public service and valuable contributions have greatly supported the leadership and administration of the MMDA,” Artes added.
The controversy began when photos of an MMDA-marked vehicle driving along the EDSA Busway circulated on social media. A subsequent investigation and show-cause order issued by the Land Transportation Office (LTO) revealed that the vehicle involved was Torre’s personal car, which was improperly using an official MMDA license plate. The car remains impounded at the LTO.
Artes stressed that the probe underscores the principle that no public official is above the law.
“The agency remains fully committed to the strict enforcement of traffic rules and regulations, public accountability, and continuous delivery of public service mandates,” he said.
Torre, a former chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), previously gained national prominence for leading the operation that resulted in the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte and his subsequent transfer to the Netherlands.