Torre as next MMDA chief debunked

MANILA, Philippines — He has barely warmed his seat, and yet there is speculation that newly appointed Metropolitan Manila Development Authority general manager Nicolas Torre III is being considered to replace MMDA Chairman Romando Artes.

At their first press conference together in Pasig yesterday, Torre and Artes laughed off the speculation raised by one of the journalists covering the event.

After months of being on floating status as a police general, Torre was named MMDA general manager by President Marcos and sworn in last month.

Calling it a “conspiracy theory,” Artes denied the speculation, saying he was instructed to “make sure that every possible assistance will be extended to ensure Torre will be successful in the MMDA.”

“I don’t think there’s a conspiracy theory…GM (general manager) muna. It’s really out of the question right now,” Torre told reporters.

Artes said he believes Torre is “very qualified” to become MMDA chairman. If Marcos wants it, Artes said he has no problem with it.

Aside from being a general manager, Torre will also serve as the MMDA’s spokesman.

Torre said one of the programs he aims to implement in the MMDA is a period of quick response for probing and clearing accidents along major roads.