The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) formally welcomed Undersecretary Nicolas Torre III as its new general manager and the agency’s official spokesperson.
During the flag-raising ceremony, Torre spoke to the personnel, conveying his excitement about joining the agency, and expressed gratitude to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for the confidence shown in appointing him to the MMDA.
“I am excited to join the ranks of the people who keep the metropolis moving and keep the metropolis where we all live, dream, work, and do business as my new career in government service. I do hope that I will make the contribution expected of me in MMDA,” said Torre.
In welcoming Torre, MMDA Chairman Romando Artes encouraged the agency personnel to extend all support and assistance to him.
Artes said Torre will take overall charge of the day-to-day operations of the MMDA under his direct supervision and guidance. He will lead initiatives related to public safety, flood control, traffic management, and solid waste management in the National Capital Region.
“Torre will engage in discussions with Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary Vince Dizon to ensure that MMDA, through him, will be actively involved in all flood control projects in Metro Manila from the initial planning stage to completion,” said Artes.
Torre, a former Philippine National Police chief, will also personally lead traffic management and enforcement efforts as well as clearing operations on major roads and waterways.
The new GM vowed to ensure the implementation of the three ‘Es’ of traffic management: engineering, education, and enforcement, with the cooperation of stakeholders, to create a safer and more efficient traffic flow in major roads under the jurisdiction of the MMDA.
With Torre’s extensive experience in the police, he will be tasked to strengthen discipline among traffic enforcers and lead a unit that is involved in conducting internal investigations for misconduct and irregularities in the performance of their duties.
Torre will also serve as the agency’s spokesperson and handle interviews.
Last Sunday, Torre led the inspection of the ongoing rehabilitation of portions of EDSA with DPWH and other concerned agencies.
During EDSA rehabilitation, travel speed has remained low as one to two lanes were occupied for the 24-hour EDSA rehabilitation works, resulting in slow vehicle movement.
“Since the innermost lanes of portions of EDSA have been repaired, travel along EDSA Busway has been observed to be faster and smoother,” said Artes.
The repairs in other parts of EDSA will continue every 10 pm to 4 am starting Monday, January 5.
