Sacked PNP chief Torre could be given another government post - Remulla

Metro Manila, Philippines - Relieved Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Nicolas Torre III could be reassigned to another government post, as President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. continues to value his experience and leadership, Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla said Tuesday.

At a press conference on Aug. 26, Remulla offered few details on Torre’s removal but he explained that Marcos “saw it necessary that the institution of the PNP and the NAPOLCOM (National Police Commission) be upheld as according to the spirit of the law as it was created.”

“The president is thinking of offering a position to the former PNP chief,” Remulla said.

“He is being considered for another position because the president still believes in his capacity, in his organizational strength, in his vast experience in the service. So the president believes that he can be of use in other positions critical to the nation's development,” he added.

No violations cited

Remulla clarified that Torre’s removal was not due to any infraction.

“He didn't violate any laws. He didn't violate any. He has not been charged with any administrative case. He has not been charged with any criminal case,” he said.

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, the president and General Torre have had a wonderful and productive relationship,” Remulla said.

Nartatez named OIC

Torre’s nearly three-month tenure ended after Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin signed an Aug. 25 order relieving him of duty.

Lt. Gen. Jose Nartatez Jr., the PNP’s former second-in-command, was appointed officer in charge.

The order followed NAPOLCOM’s reversal of several personnel movements made under Torre, including the assignment of Nartatez and other senior officials.

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