Lawmakers Question PNP Chief Nicolas Torre III Removal
Several lawmakers from the House of Representatives’ liberal wing have raised concerns over the recent removal of Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Nicolas Torre III. They questioned the administration’s decision, suggesting that other officials, rather than Torre, should have been dismissed.
Representatives from Akbayan and Mamamayang Liberal party-lists emphasized that the administration must provide a valid reason behind the action, especially since Torre was considered a high-performing and well-regarded leader.
Calls for Clear Explanation on Torre’s Dismissal
“What’s happening?! They better have a good reason in doing that to a very popular, much appreciated and high-performing PNP Chief!” a prominent lawmaker expressed on social media. Another legislator echoed this sentiment, pointing out that officials implicated in questionable flood control projects deserved removal more than Torre.
“‘Yung mga sangkot sa flood control dapat ang sibakin pero Chief PNP ang tinanggal. Anyare?” the representative said, highlighting the puzzling nature of the decision.
Official Documents Show Immediate Relief of Torre
On Tuesday, official documents signed by the Executive Secretary confirmed that Torre was relieved from his post on orders from the President. The papers instructed Torre to ensure a proper turnover of duties but did not provide a detailed explanation for the dismissal.
“You are hereby relieved as Chief, PNP effective immediately,” the document stated, underscoring the urgency of the decision.
Interior Secretary Comments on the Decision
Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla later addressed the issue in a press briefing. He described the President’s move as a “difficult but necessary decision” and emphasized the importance of upholding the integrity of the PNP and the National Police Commission (Napolcom).
Although Remulla did not provide specific reasons, he noted that the administration aimed to maintain the spirit of the law governing these institutions.
Conflict Over Police Reassignments
Torre recently had disagreements with both Napolcom and Remulla regarding the reassignment of PNP officials. On August 22, he announced plans to convene the Senior Officers’ Placement and Promotion Board (SOPPB) to deliberate on Napolcom’s order to reassign 13 third-level officers.
This order included reinstating Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. as deputy chief for administration, a move that stirred controversy within the police ranks.
In a show of support, directors from 18 regional PNP offices signed a manifesto backing Torre and the chain of command, although they did not directly mention the Napolcom directive.
Broader Political Implications Highlighted by Lawmakers
Other lawmakers from the House also weighed in on the sudden relief of the PNP chief. The Makabayan bloc described the changes as signs of deepening divisions within the Marcos administration.
Party-list representatives suggested that Torre’s removal, occurring less than three months after his appointment, reflected ongoing power struggles among various factions.
Torre’s Public Profile and Recent Actions
PNP Chief Nicolas Torre III became a well-known figure on social media due to his involvement in high-profile cases and arrests. Notably, he gained attention for a charity boxing match against acting Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte, which he won by default after Duterte did not appear.
The match was arranged after Torre interpreted Duterte’s statements as a challenge to a fistfight, an episode even referenced humorously by President Marcos during his recent State of the Nation Address.
Key Operations Led by Torre
Earlier this year, as a major general and director of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group, Torre led the police team that enforced an International Criminal Police Organization warrant to arrest former President Rodrigo Duterte.
Additionally, in September 2024, as Davao police chief, he spearheaded the arrest of Apollo Quiboloy, Duterte’s spiritual adviser, inside the Kingdom of Jesus Christ compound. Quiboloy faced serious charges involving child abuse and trafficking.
Community members praised Torre for employing his engineering expertise to locate the pastor within the compound, showcasing his resourcefulness during the operation.
For more news and updates on Philippine National Police Chief Nicolas Torre III, visit Filipinokami.com.
