Nicolas Torre Fired by Marcos as PNP Chief, Nartatez Appointed | Leadership Shakeup

Manila, Philippines – August 2025

MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has officially relieved Gen. Nicolas Torre III from his post as Philippine National Police (PNP) chief. T

his decision comes after just three months of Torre’s leadership. The move was made to uphold the authority of the National Police Commission (Napolcom), as confirmed by Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla.

Reasons for Torre’s Removal

Torre’s removal followed his defiance of a Napolcom resolution, which blocked his order to reassign some PNP officials, including PLt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., his successor. Nartatez had been reassigned by Torre to serve as the Area Police Commander (APC) for Western Mindanao.

Remulla stated that President Marcos believed that the national security apparatus should always function within the framework of the law.

He emphasized that the President’s decision was made to ensure the unity and collaboration across all government sectors, particularly in ensuring security and order.

“The President believes in the importance of the National Police Commission’s (Napolcom) role as intended by law,” Remulla said during a press conference at Camp Crame, Quezon City.

Although Torre was not charged with any administrative or criminal violations, his removal was considered necessary for the national interest, according to Remulla. He also mentioned that Torre had the option to retire, with potential for other roles in the Cabinet.

Nartatez Assumes Command as PNP Officer-In-Charge

PLt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. immediately assumed the role of PNP officer-in-charge, taking an oath in a ceremony led by Secretary Remulla. Nartatez, a member of the Philippine Military Academy Tanglaw-Diwa Class of 1992, is expected to serve as the PNP head until his retirement in March 2027.

In his assumption speech, Nartatez assured that programs initiated by Torre, such as the police’s five-minute response time, would continue. He also emphasized his commitment to ensuring that citizens can walk the streets safely and without fear.

“We are covered by orders and policies, and as a public servant, we follow the instructions given to us. There is no conflict. We just follow orders,” Nartatez stated, addressing the media.

Reactions to Torre’s Removal

Former PNP Chief Sen. Panfilo Lacson weighed in on the situation, saying that Torre acted beyond his authority when he removed Nartatez without proper approval.

Lacson explained that the appointment and relief of PNP Command Group members should be cleared by the President or the ex-officio chairman of the National Police Commission.

Meanwhile, Rep. Leila de Lima expressed confusion and concern over Torre’s sacking, calling for a clear explanation regarding the decision to remove a “popular” and “high-performing” PNP Chief.

Torre’s Leadership and Achievements

During his brief tenure as the PNP Chief, Gen. Torre was involved in high-profile operations, including the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte and leading a significant raid on Apollo Quiboloy’s compound in Davao City, a televangelist and suspected child abuser.

Nartatez’s Focus Moving Forward

Looking ahead, Nartatez aims to prioritize proactive crime prevention and public safety. He stressed that the PNP should remain agile and dynamic, adapting to the needs of the people they serve.

In conclusion, President Marcos’ decision to remove Gen. Torre and appoint Nartatez as PNP Officer-in-Charge is a significant step in ensuring the integrity and stability of the PNP as a national security agency.

With Nartatez now in command, there is hope that the leadership transition will bring about positive change and continue the efforts to maintain peace and order in the Philippines.

Reference:

• Torre sacked as PNP chief as Marcos backs Napolcom authority
• Lacson says sacked PNP chief Torre ‘acted beyond his authority’