Historic Appointment Breaks Traditional Pattern
The Philippine National Police has witnessed a historic milestone with the appointment of its 31st Chief, marking a significant change in leadership selection. For the first time in over three decades, the country’s top police official is a graduate of the Philippine National Police Academy. This shift ends the cycle of past appointments that favored graduates from other military institutions.
President Marcos’s decision to appoint Police Maj. Gen. Nicolas Torre III, a member of the PNPA’s 1993 “Tagapaglunsad Class,” reflects a renewed focus on the values instilled by the Academy. Torre will succeed Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil, whose term was extended for four months. The leadership change signals trust in the Academy’s principles of justice, integrity, and dedication to national service.
PNP Academy Alumni Express Gratitude and Pride
The Philippine National Police Academy Alumni Association, Inc. (PNPAAAI) expressed deep appreciation for the President’s groundbreaking choice. In a statement signed by its officers, led by chairperson Gilbert DC Cruz, the appointment was hailed as a “powerful affirmation of the enduring values of the Academy.”
“This historic appointment marks a milestone for the Philippine National Police Academy, being the first time that a PNPA alumnus has been entrusted with the highest leadership post in the PNP,” the association said. They also thanked the President for his confidence in a son of the Academy, highlighting the pride and inspiration this brings to both alumni and cadets.
New Leadership Among PNPA Graduates
Maj. Gen. Nicolas Torre was selected from a group of top contenders known as the Lakans—graduates of the Philippine National Police Academy. This group dominated the shortlist for Chief PNP contenders, a first in the history of appointments, which traditionally favored Philippine Military Academy graduates.
Alongside Torre, other prominent PNPA graduates considered were Police Lt. Gen. Edgar Alan Okubo, the only Lakan in the Command Group and a pioneer leader of the Special Action Force and National Capital Region Police Office, and incumbent NCRPO director Maj. Gen. Anthony A. Aberin.
Significance of the Appointment and Support for New Chief
Local experts note that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s decision will be remembered as a landmark moment, recognizing the Philippine National Police Academy’s role in shaping the country’s law enforcement leadership. This move resonates strongly with those who have studied and served under the Academy’s ideals.
The PNPAAAI also voiced full support for Chief Torre’s leadership, affirming their commitment to collaborate with the Philippine National Police. Their joint efforts aim to uphold peace, security, and public trust across the nation.
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