Pasig city: Newly appointed Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) General Manager Nicolas Torre III will oversee the agency's day-to-day operations and serve as its primary spokesperson following his appointment by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

According to Philippines News Agency, in a speech at the MMDA headquarters in Pasig City, Torre expressed gratitude to the MMDA for their welcome and to Marcos for entrusting him with the post. "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, in my new career in government service. I do hope that I will make the contribution expected of me in MMDA," he said.

MMDA Chair Romando 'Don' Artes urged personnel to support the former Philippine National Police (PNP) chief in his duties, which include overall charge of day-to-day operations under Artes' direct supervision and guidance. As general manager, Torre will lead initiatives on public safety, flood control, traffic management, and solid waste management across the National Capital Region (NCR).

Artes noted that Torre will engage in discussions with Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) 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.

With his extensive experience in the police, Torre will also be responsible for strengthening discipline among traffic enforcers and leading an internal investigation unit against misconduct and irregularities. On Sunday, Torre led an inspection of the ongoing rehabilitation of portions of Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA) with DPWH and other concerned agencies.

To date, the innermost lanes of EDSA have been repaired, resulting in a smoother ride for passenger buses on the EDSA Busway. Repairs in other parts of EDSA remain ongoing, with works scheduled from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. beginning Monday.