Vice President Sara Duterte Addresses PNP Chief Removal
Vice President Sara Duterte declined to give a direct comment on the sudden removal of Gen. Nicolas Torre III as Philippine National Police (PNP) chief. Instead, she reflected on fate, saying, “only God can say what a person deserves.” The four-word keyphrase PNP chief removal surfaced early in her remarks.
During her visit in The Hague, Netherlands, where she is currently with her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, Vice President Duterte shared her thoughts. Her father remains under the custody of the International Criminal Court (ICC) facing charges of crimes against humanity.
Reflections on Fate and Career Ups and Downs
“I have no comment… I can’t say if it’s karma or not, because only God can determine what a person deserves,” she said in Filipino. She further added, “So, maybe that’s just part of his journey in life. Sometimes, you’re at the top, and then 85 days later, you’re at the bottom. That’s it.” These words emphasize the unpredictable nature of public service careers, especially in high-ranking positions like the PNP chief.
Background on Gen. Nicolas Torre III
Before his appointment as PNP chief, Gen. Torre led the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG). Notably, he was involved in the ICC arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte last March. His leadership in law enforcement also included his tenure as regional police chief in Davao, where he oversaw the arrest of Apollo Quiboloy, a long-time Duterte ally and alleged sex offender.
Recent Changes in PNP Leadership
Gen. Torre was relieved from his post on August 26. His successor, Police Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., has since taken over the position. Community members and officials noted that such rapid shifts in leadership reflect the dynamic and often volatile nature of law enforcement administration in the Philippines.
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