The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has permanently revoked the driver’s license of Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) General Manager, Nicolas Torre III’s assigned driver, following its investigation into the use of a private vehicle along the EDSA Busway.

The case stemmed from a traffic violation involving Torre’s patrol vehicle, which was caught using the EDSA Busway. The MMDA itself has said the lane is reserved for the EDSA Bus Carousel, emergency vehicles responding to emergencies, and a limited group of officials that includes the President, Vice President, Chief Justice, Senate President, and House Speaker.

LTO’s further verification found that Torre was using his privately owned Toyota Fortuner fitted with MMDA markings, blinkers, and sirens. Investigators also found that it was using a government-issued license plate assigned to an MMDA utility vehicle.

The findings prompted the LTO to issue a Show Cause Order (SCO). Torre later voluntarily surrendered the vehicle.

Not the first time

The LTO issued a second Show Cause Order on August 29, 2026, against the vehicle’s registered owner after finding evidence that the same driver involved in the first incident was also behind the wheel during another traffic violation.

The agency said it found repeated violations and unauthorized use of the vehicle and identities. It declared the driver an Improper Person to Operate a Motor Vehicle and imposed the permanent revocation of the driver’s license.

The vehicle remains in LTO custody

Torre on leave

The MMDA announced that Torre has filed for leave effective today, September 8, 2026. The agency did not disclose how long the leave would last or the reason behind it.

Before the LTO’s ruling, Torre defended his use of the EDSA Busway, saying his duties as MMDA General Manager required him to inspect and direct operations on the ground.