Nartatez named PNP chief after Marcos relieves Torre

Metro Manila, Philippines - President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has appointed PLtGen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. as the new chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), succeeding relieved PGen. Nicolas Torre III.

Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin ordered Torre’s immediate relief in a letter released to the media on Tuesday, Aug. 26. Hours later, Nartatez's appointment was confirmed by DILG Chief Jonvic Remulla in a message to reporters.

Nartatez, a PMA Tanglaw-Diwa Class of 1992 who graduated from Ilocos Sur, has served as NCRPO Regional Director, Director for Intelligence, and PNP Deputy Chief for Administration -- the second top most position in the agency. 

He was among the top contenders for PNP chief last May, alongside Torre.

In a contested shake-up among senior officials, Torre relegated Nartatez from the second highest PNP post to Area Police Commander for Western Mindanao early this month. However, this order was reversed by the National Police Commission (Napolcom).

This is a developing story.