Torre Orders Aggressive Drug Arrests but with Human Rights in Mind | People’s Press PH

By Sherman Calotes | Philippine People's Press 

MANILA, Philippines — Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III wasted no time setting the tone of his leadership, directing all police units to intensify operations against illegal drugs with a clear emphasis on increasing arrests while upholding human rights.

Speaking during a media briefing shortly after the formal turnover ceremony led by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Monday, Torre declared that the number of arrests would now serve as a key performance indicator for the force.

“Kasama sa metrics natin ang number of arrests paramihan, sige. Paramihan!” Torre asserted.
(“Part of our performance metrics will be the number of arrests the more, the better!”)

But even with the hardline stance, Torre was quick to clarify: the campaign will not come at the cost of human lives or dignity.

“’Yung mga inaresto natin, buhay hindi binaril, hindi pinatay. Andyan pa rin ang karapatang pantao,” he said.
(“Those we arrest are alive they weren’t shot or killed. Human rights remain in effect.”)

Torre also revealed plans to strengthen cooperation with barangay officials to better locate and apprehend suspected drug offenders, emphasizing community-based intelligence as a critical tool in the fight against narcotics.

President Marcos, who officiated the ceremonial donning of rank and handover, echoed the importance of intensifying the anti-drug campaign while ensuring public safety. “Walang dapat matakot na lumakad sa kalsada estudyante, manggagawa, motorista, magulang,” the President said, underlining his administration’s goal of safer communities.

Beyond law enforcement metrics, Torre assured police personnel of institutional support, promising legal assistance for officers who may face litigation in the course of their duties.

“If you do your job properly and face legal challenges, you won’t be alone. The organization will back you,” he said.

The PNP chief also made it clear that excellent, lawful police work would not go unnoticed.

“Deliver excellence file airtight affidavits, execute warrants lawfully, bring offenders before the court, and testify with integrity. Do that, and you will be recognized and rewarded,” Torre declared.

But he added a final note of caution: “All of this must be within the bounds of the law evidence-based, rights-respecting. That’s the only way forward.”

As Torre steps into the country’s top police post, his early directives suggest a leadership style that blends tough accountability with a commitment to due process a delicate balance that will define his legacy in the months to come.

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