Torre Rewarded with PNP Top Post Following Duterte’s Controversial Arrest | People’s Press PH

By Sherman Calotes | Philippine People's Press 

Manila, Philippines - Newly appointed Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Police General Nicolas Torre III officially assumed command on Monday, vowing to lead with integrity and refocus the PNP on community-based policing and internal reform.

President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. administered the formal change of command ceremony at Camp Crame, Quezon City, where he outlined key directives for the incoming PNP leader. Torre replaced outgoing PNP Chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil, who is set to retire on June 7 after leading the 232,000-strong force since March 2023.

In his speech, President Marcos emphasized three core missions for Torre: intensifying the national campaign against illegal drugs, purging the PNP of rogue officers, and enhancing police presence to curb criminality at the grassroots level.

“Let your badge be your daily pledge, not to command, but to serve with integrity. Let every decision uphold the law and every gesture reflect the quiet dignity of true public service,” the President told Torre.

Public Safety, Integrity at the Core

The President further stressed that the PNP must not only enforce the law but also restore public trust by placing the needs, rights, and welfare of Filipinos at the center of every initiative.

“Let the police be a source of hope and comfort in every barangay. We must win the people’s trust not just through visibility, but through accountability,” Marcos added.

To this end, Marcos directed Torre to fast-track internal investigations involving abusive and erring police officers, ensure swift delivery of justice, and strictly prohibit the misuse of power.

Drug War Under Renewed Scrutiny

Marcos reaffirmed his administration’s stance against illegal drugs, instructing the PNP to intensify collaboration with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA). He called for strategic raids, high-value target operations, and sustained legal actions against drug lords and traffickers.

The new PNP Chief is expected to continue the recalibrated approach to the anti-drug war, focusing on rehabilitation, prevention, and intelligence-driven enforcement.

Torre's Rise to Leadership

Torre’s appointment follows his tenure as director of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), where he reportedly led high-profile operations including the controversial arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte earlier this year. The move, which led to Duterte’s transfer to the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague, was hailed by some as a bold step toward accountability, though it remains politically divisive.

When asked about the arrest during a recent press conference, Vice President Sara Duterte dismissed Torre’s promotion with laughter, further fueling speculation about internal tensions.

'Face the Charges,' Torre Tells Roque

In a separate development, Torre also urged former presidential spokesperson Atty. Harry Roque to confront the legal cases filed against him.

“There is a valid case pending in our courts. As a lawyer, Atty. Roque should know better  he must face the charges head-on,” Torre said, referring to the complaints tied to illegal business operations.

He also made light of the numerous arrest warrants related to Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), joking, “Two down, 49 to go,” in reference to the POGO firm Lucky South 99 Outsourcing Inc. in Porac, Pampanga.

A Salute to Marbil

President Marcos extended his gratitude to the outgoing police chief, Gen. Marbil, citing his contributions in making the PNP more people-centered and professionally disciplined.

“You led with humility and helped rebuild public confidence in our police. You leave behind a legacy of service that your successor must now build upon,” the President said.

As Torre takes the reins, both supporters and critics will be closely watching how he navigates the challenges of police reform, internal cleansing, and maintaining peace and order all while treading the complex political terrain that comes with the job.

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