Yesterday, Benhur Abalos, Jr. formally announced his resignation as Chairman of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), which he led for more than a year, to make way for the campaign manager of presidential aspirant Bongbong Marcos.
“I would like to announce that I am resigning as MMDA Chairman effective the end of business hours of February 7, 2022. I have submitted my resignation letter to the President. It has been an honor and privilege to serve the Filipino people as MMDA chair,” said Abalos yesterday.
Abalos appointed incumbent MMDA General Manager Romando Artes as the agency’s Officer-in-Charge, pending Malacañang’s appointment of the next MMDA chairman.
He thanked President Rodrigo Duterte for trusting him as MMDA chair.
“I thanked President Duterte for his full trust and confidence in me, most especially for believing in my capability to lead the MMDA,” Abalos said.
It will be recalled that Abalos, a lawyer, took over when former MMDA Chairman Danilo Lim passed away in January 2021.
Benhur Abalos resigned to be the campaign manager of presidential aspirant former senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.
MMDA chief Benhur Abalos resigns
“The campaign period is fast approaching and I would need to devote my time to Senator Bongbong Marcos’ campaign as his national campaign manager. While I am extremely saddened by this, I wish the agency success in its every program, project, and initiative for the betterment of the metropolis,” Benhur Abalos said.
Incumbent MMDA General Manager Romando Artes will serve as MMDA’s officer-in-charge, pending the appointment by Malacañang.
“GM Artes is a lawyer. He knows everything. However, let me reiterate that the President has the prerogative to appoint the next chairman of the MMDA,” Abalos said.
During his term, Benhur Abalos carried the slogan “MMDA At Your Service.”
His vital projects are flood control mitigating measures, traffic reduction initiatives, sanitation, and beautification.
“The MMDA will always be at your service, living up to the agency’s commitment to provide prompt, efficient and quality services for a safe, livable and workable environment for all,” Abalos said.
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