Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief, General Rommel Francisco D. Marbil gave a marching order to Brig. Gen. Nicolas Torre III to “clean up” the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) following the latter’s recent appointment as the acting director of the post.
Marbil said that Torre shall spearhead a full-scale internal cleanup of the CIDG “to restore its integrity and rebuild public confidence.”
“The CIDG must set the highest standard of professionalism and ethical conduct,” he said.
“I have complete trust in Gen. Nicolas Torre III’s ability to address the challenges within the CIDG. His proven track record shows his capability to confront these issues head-on, and I am confident he will take on this mission with unyielding commitment,” he added.
Prior to the appointment, Torre served as the regional director of the Davao Police Regional Office (PRO-11) since June 16 where he became instrumental in the successful arrest of Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) leader Apollo Quiboloy, who is facing child abuse and human trafficking charges, and the reorganization of the Davao City Police Station.
He was promoted as the acting head of the CIDG, replacing Major General Leo Francisco, making him eligible to earn his second star. The turnover of office ceremony was held on Sept. 26 in Camp Crame, Quezon City.
Marbil emphasized the CIDG's pivotal role in maintaining the credibility of police investigations and ensuring justice is served.
He tasked Torre with “eliminating any internal issues or personnel who compromise the group’s integrity.”
“There’s no room for complacency or misconduct within the CIDG,” Gen. Marbil stressed. “We must identify and address any wrongdoing, ensuring that the CIDG maintains its critical role in our law enforcement operations.”
The PNP said that the directive forms part of Marbil’s broader campaign for institutional reform within the police organization, which focuses on strengthening investigative operations, expediting case resolutions, and fostering greater accountability and transparency across all units.
“I expect swift and decisive action. Every member of the CIDG must be held accountable for their actions. The public deserves transparency, and we are committed to showing that the PNP stands firmly for the rule of law,” Marbil said.
Under Torre’s leadership, Marbil said that the CIDG is expected to implement sweeping reforms, including stricter personnel screening, enhanced training, and rigorous oversight of all operations to ensure adherence to the highest ethical standards.
“The CIDG is at the core of our investigative efforts, and I’m confident that under Gen. Torre’s leadership, we will see a revitalized, more effective unit that will serve the public with honor and integrity,” Marbil concluded.