Incoming Mamamayang Liberal (ML) Party-list Rep. Leila de Lima has expressed her "full confidence" in the leadership capabilities of newly-appointed Philippine National Police (PNP) chief, Police Maj. Gen. Nicolas Torre III.

"I extend my sincere congratulations to Police Major General Nicolas Torre III on his appointment as chief of the Philippine National Police," De Lima, a former senator and Department of Justice (DOJ) secretary, said in a statement Thursday afternoon, May 29.

"This new responsibility comes at a time when the country yearns for institutions that serve with integrity, uphold the rule of law, and protect the rights and safety of every Filipino," she noted.

"I have full confidence that under PMGen. Torre’s leadership, the PNP can further restore public trust and reaffirm its role as a protector of the people—not of power," said De Lima, who was incarcerated for drug charges during the previous Duterte administration. 

Her charges have since been dropped.

De Lima added that Torre "has shown courage and fidelity to his oath in moments that have tested the principles of law enforcement".

"I trust that he will bring the same clarity of purpose and steadiness of hand in his stewardship of the police force, guided not by political allegiance but by his sworn duty to the Constitution and the Republic," she further said.

"May this new chapter in his career be marked by professionalism, bravery, and service to the highest ideals of justice," De Lima added.

She said she wished that the PNP could "rise to the highest standards under [Torre's] command".