Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla confirmed the appointment of Western Mindanao chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. to replace Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III. This change in leadership marks a significant shift in the PNP’s top ranks, with the four-word keyphrase “Western Mindanao chief Jose Melencio” appearing early in the announcement.
The appointment was initially revealed through a memorandum dated August 25, signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin and addressed to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., sources said. Gen. Torre was appointed as the PNP chief on June 2, but recent developments have led to his replacement by Nartatez.
Background of Western Mindanao Chief Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr.
Lt. Gen. Nartatez is a member of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1992, distinguishing him from his predecessor, Gen. Torre, who is an alumnus of the Philippine National Police Academy. Before his new role, Nartatez served as Deputy Chief for Administration, a position he held until August 6 when he was assigned as the Area Police Command chief in Western Mindanao, effectively moving him from the PNP’s second-highest rank, officials reported.
Gen. Torre’s tenure as PNP chief was notable. Prior to his appointment, he served as the Police Regional Office Davao Region director and head of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group. Under his leadership, the police arrested high-profile figures, including alleged sex offender Apollo Quiboloy and former President Rodrigo Duterte, in September 2024 and March 2025, respectively, community members noted.
Napolcom’s Role and Controversy
The National Police Commission (Napolcom) intervened following Nartatez’s reassignment. On August 14, through Resolution 2025-0531, Napolcom ordered the reinstatement of Nartatez to his former post, citing that the PNP did not secure its approval for the designation of third-level officers. The commission emphasized that any appointment without prior review and confirmation is invalid and warned of administrative sanctions for non-compliance, official sources said.
This directive sparked tension between the PNP leadership and Napolcom. On August 15, all regional PNP chiefs expressed support for Gen. Torre in a unified manifesto. Torre himself stated that “no order can break the police force’s unity,” highlighting the solidarity within the ranks despite the ongoing dispute.
Although Gen. Torre claimed on August 18 that the disagreement with Napolcom had been resolved “internally,” Napolcom Executive Officer Rafael Calinisan said he was unaware of any dialogue between the two agencies. Both the PNP and Napolcom operate under the Department of the Interior and Local Government, adding complexity to the situation, local leaders noted.
Looking Ahead
The appointment of Western Mindanao chief Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. as the new PNP chief signals a new chapter for the Philippine National Police. With his military background and experience leading a critical regional command, Nartatez is expected to bring a fresh perspective to national police leadership, sources said.
As the PNP navigates this leadership transition amid institutional challenges, the unity and stability of the force remain paramount. Officials and community members alike watch closely how this change will impact public safety and law enforcement effectiveness nationwide.
For more news and updates on Western Mindanao chief Jose Melencio, visit Filipinokami.com.
