Former PNP Chief Nicolas Torre III Expresses Gratitude
Former Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Nicolas Torre III has finally spoken out following his sudden removal from office. Through a heartfelt social media post, he thanked his supporters for their unwavering backing during this challenging period.
Torre initially refrained from commenting after skipping the PNP officer-in-charge Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr.’s assumption of command ceremonies last Tuesday. However, by Wednesday morning, he updated his post with a simple message: “Salamat po sa suporta niyo!” (Thanks for your support).
Supporters Rally Behind Former PNP Chief Nicolas Torre III
The message from his supporters highlighted Torre’s dedication and resilience. They wrote, “Sa bawat laban—sa ring man o sa serbisyo—ang tagumpay ay laging para sa taumbayan. Ang lakas at tapang ni Chief Torre ay para sa kapakanan ng bawat Pilipino. Dahil ang tunay na tagumpay ay ang patuloy na paglilingkod sa bayan.”
(In every fight—whether in the ring or in service—the victory is always for the people. Chief Torre’s strength and courage is for the good of every Filipino because the true victory is in the service of the people.)
This statement also referenced Torre’s recent charity boxing match, where he won by default against acting Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte last month.
Official Orders and Immediate Relief
On Tuesday, documents signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin confirmed that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. ordered Torre’s immediate relief from his position. Although no specific reason was cited, the order emphasized the need for continuous and efficient public service delivery within the PNP.
“You are hereby relieved as Chief, PNP effective immediately,” the document stated. It also directed Torre to ensure a proper turnover of all relevant matters, documents, and information related to his office.
Interior Secretary Comments on Torre’s Removal and Future Prospects
Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla later held a briefing, explaining that the President made a difficult but necessary decision to relieve Torre of his duties. Despite this, Remulla noted that Torre still retains the trust of the Chief Executive.
“However, I was privy to a conversation that the President is considering him for another post in government and we will know soon if General Torre will accept,” Remulla shared.
Disputes and Challenges Leading to Removal
Before his relief, Torre was involved in disputes with both the National Police Commission (Napolcom) and Interior Secretary Remulla over the reassignment of PNP officials. On August 22, Torre announced that the PNP would convene its Senior Officers’ Placement and Promotion Board (SOPPB) to address the Napolcom order affecting several third-level officers.
The Napolcom directive aimed to reassign 13 third-level officers, which would reinstate Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. as the PNP’s deputy chief for administration. In response, directors of the PNP’s 18 regional offices issued a manifesto supporting Torre and the existing chain of command, although they did not directly mention the Napolcom order.
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