PNP Chief Appointment Marks Historic Civilian Leadership Shift
Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero praised President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s decision to appoint Gen. Nicolas Torre III as the new Philippine National Police (PNP) chief. This move fulfills the law’s requirement for the PNP leadership to be civilian, a milestone in the agency’s history. Torre, from the PNPA “Tagapaglunsad Class” of 1993, is the 31st PNP chief, succeeding Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil, a Philippine Military Academy (PMA) graduate.
Before Torre’s appointment, every PNP chief came from the PMA, including former chiefs turned senators Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa and Panfilo “Ping” Lacson. No president has made such a groundbreaking decision until now. “This is the first time that a President has done that, and now by chance, a senior PNPA officer has reached the rank and is qualified to become PNP Chief,” Escudero said during a press briefing, speaking in Filipino.
Legal Foundation for Civilian PNP Leadership
Escudero highlighted Republic Act 6975, known as the Department of Interior and Local Government Act of 1990, which created the PNP and the DILG. Section 23 of this law mandates that the PNP leadership must come from police forces integrated into the Integrated National Police (INP) and Philippine Constabulary (PC), emphasizing civilian control over the police.
“General Torre is the very first PNP graduate who will serve as PNP chief in the history of our country. And with his appointment, the provision of this 35-year old law was finally fully implemented,” Escudero noted. This appointment reflects the law’s intent to maintain a civilian police force, distinct from military influence.
Challenges Ahead for Civilian Police Leadership
With this historic appointment, Torre faces the significant task of upholding the civilian nature of the police. The law, passed over three decades ago, aims to ensure that the PNP operates independently of military traditions and control.
“He now has the burden of proving that it is only right for the police force to function as civilian in nature and not military in nature,” Escudero added. This challenge will test Torre’s leadership as he steers the PNP under the civilian framework envisioned by lawmakers.
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