MANILA, Philippines — Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Don Artes on Tuesday said that General Manager Nicolas Torre III took a one-month leave following the controversy triggered by his use of the EDSA busway.
When they met on Monday, Torre told Artes that he planned to retire from public service, but the latter advised him to consider his decision. Torre eventually decided to take a one-month leave, Artes said.
"I can categorically say that I still trust him, and in my opinion, he is still an asset to the agency despite what is happening," Artes said in an interview.
The MMDA chairman said that a single incident should not define Torre's public service record, citing his contributions to the country and his work at the agency.
"He has done many good things for our country, and he has served our country," Artes said in Filipino.
