President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has officially named Police Major General Nicolas Torre III as the new chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), Malacañang announced on Thursday, May 29.
Torre, a seasoned police officer with a long history of leadership in high-profile law enforcement roles, takes over the reins of the 230,000-strong national police force following a series of accomplishments that cemented his reputation in the service.
Most recently, Torre made headlines when he led the search and eventual arrest of controversial televangelist Apollo Quiboloy in Davao City. The arrest was among the most high-profile operations carried out this year, placing Torre under the national spotlight just before his promotion as head of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG).
In his brief but impactful tenure as CIDG chief, Torre also served an arrest warrant on former President Rodrigo Duterte for cases filed against him. His involvement in these high-stakes operations highlighted his strong resolve and ability to manage sensitive law enforcement activities.
Torre brings with him a wealth of experience from various police leadership positions across the country. He previously served as director of the Quezon City Police District and was also assigned to lead the Davao Region Police, Western Samar Provincial Police Office, and police stations in Batangas City and Mabalacat. His broad experience in these regions has been seen as crucial preparation for his new national leadership role.
Aside from administrative and field command roles, Torre also has an extensive background in intelligence operations. He held key intelligence and operational posts in both Central Luzon and Mimaropa police regional offices, further bolstering his credentials as a strategic and tactical leader.
The appointment of PMGen. Nicolas Torre III as PNP chief signals a firm direction in the Marcos administration’s law enforcement policy, focused on assertiveness, accountability, and visibility. Malacañang emphasized the president’s trust in Torre’s ability to lead the police institution with integrity and professionalism.
Torre is expected to immediately begin work on internal reforms, crime suppression efforts, and strengthening public trust in the police force. His official assumption of command is anticipated in a turnover ceremony within the coming days.