Disappointment Over New Police Chief Appointment
Senator Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada voiced his disappointment on Saturday, May 31, regarding the appointment of Police Major General Nicolas Torre III as the new chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP). Estrada called the incoming top cop “arrogant” and questioned his qualifications for the role.
“For me, kung ako ang tatanungin, that’s not a good choice. Ngayon lang tayo magkakaroon ng napaka-aroganteng Chief PNP,” Estrada said during an interview on a local radio station. He criticized Torre’s demeanor and conduct, describing it as problematic for the police force.
Estrada openly doubted Torre’s accomplishments, rhetorically asking whether his record included significant arrests such as those of Kingdom of Jesus Christ leader Apollo Quiboloy or former president Rodrigo Duterte. When asked if these achievements justified Torre’s promotion or if it was a form of reward, Estrada replied, “Your guess is as good as mine.”
Uncertain Expectations for New Leadership
When questioned about what he expects from Torre’s leadership, Estrada responded, “I do not know. That remains to be seen. If he will continue his arrogant ways in governing the police force, I don’t know what will happen.”
If given the chance to advise Torre, Estrada said, “Hinay-hinay lang. Huwag masyado mayabang.” The senator also expressed concern over the declining public trust in the PNP, recalling that the police force enjoyed higher approval ratings during his father’s presidency, particularly under then-PNP Chief and now Senator-elect Panfilo Lacson.
Despite his reservations, Estrada acknowledged that Torre has the confidence of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., who made the appointment. “May tiwala sa kanya ang Pangulo, so be it. Eh di sana mag-perform siya na maganda. Sana huwag niya sirain yung pagtitiwala ng Pangulo sa kanya,” he added.
Appointment Details and Official Transition
Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin announced on Thursday, May 29, that President Marcos chose Torre to lead the PNP. Torre notably commanded two high-profile police operations that resulted in the arrests of Quiboloy and Duterte.
Torre will succeed outgoing PNP Chief Police General Rommel Marbil and will officially assume the role on June 2. Despite Torre holding only a two-star general rank, the President’s decision to appoint him is expected to be respected, according to Bersamin.
For more news and updates on police major general Nicolas Torre III appointment, visit Filipinokami.com.