Palace confirms new post for former PNP chief Nicolas Torre

Metro Manila, Philippines - Malacañang confirmed Wednesday that the former Philippine National Police chief, PGen Nicolas Torre III, has been offered a new position after his removal from office.

Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro said the details of the position will be disclosed once Torre confirms his acceptance of the offer.

“We will know soon if General Torre will accept,” Castro said.

Torre was PNP chief for just over two months. He was relieved on Aug. 25, with the Palace citing a change in direction.

Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla said Torre is not facing any criminal or administrative offense, and that the decision was the president’s prerogative.

Before his stint as PNP chief, Torre led a number of high-profile operations, including the arrests of former President Rodrigo Duterte and religious leader Apollo Quiboloy.

Remulla described Torre’s relief as “difficult but necessary,” saying Marcos is still “very fond of Torre.”

“In his brief tenure as PNP chief, and even before that as CIDG (Criminal Investigation and Detection Group), the president and General Torre have had a wonderful and productive relationship,” Remulla said.

Lt. Gen. Jose Nartatez Jr., the PNP second-in-command, is now officer in charge.

The National Police Commission (Napolcom) has reversed a number of personnel movements made under Torre’s leadership, including the assignments of Nartatez and other senior officials.

“That (Napolcom order) among other things is part of the consideration of the president,” Remulla said.