Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) General Manager Nicolas Torre III laughed off social media posts claiming he would be appointed as the new director general of the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor).

In an ambush interview in Parañaque City, Torre described as “fake news” an art card circulating online that alleged he would replace BuCor Director General Gregorio Catapang, as reported by RH Jecelle Ricafort on DZRH's Damdaming Bayan.

According to Torre, even the media outfit whose branding was used in the graphic has already denied producing the material.

“Diba ‘yung mismong news outfit na ginamit para doon sa fake news na ‘yun ay nagreact na, na hindi sa kanila galing ang media card na iyon,” Torre said.

He lamented that some individuals appear to have too much time, which they use to create and spread false information.

“Marami lang talaga tayong mga kababayan na sobra-sobra ang oras sa kanilang mga kamay kung ano na ang nasa isip kaya naman gamitin na lang nila yung oras na ‘yun para sa kabutihan ng nakararami. Hindi sa kasiraan at pang-iintriga,” he added.

Torre urged those responsible to stop spreading intrigue and instead use their time productively for the benefit of the public.

Meanwhile, Catapang has also earlier denied rumors that he would be removed from his post as BuCor chief, stressing that the proliferation of fake news has become alarming.