Members of the House "Young Guns" bloc have highlighted newly-appointed Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Nicolas Torre III's unbending resolve and courage as among his best qualities.
“We are fully and 100% behind President Bongbong Marcos' decision to appoint Gen. Torre as PNP Chief. Sa panahong kailangan natin ng matatag at makataong pamumuno sa hanay ng kapulisan, ito ay isang malinaw na mensahe: we are in good, capable hands,” the young lawmakers said," the solons said in a joint statement Thursday afternoon, May 29.
(In times when we need strong and compassionate leadership within the ranks of the police, this is a clear message: we are in good, capable hands.)
Releasing the statement were Lanao del Sur 1st district Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong, Zambales 1st district Rep. Jay Khonghun, La Union 1st district Rep. Paolo Ortega V, 1-RIDER Party-list Rep. Rodge Gutierrez, and Manila 1st district Rep. Ernest “Ernix” Dionisio.
"Unbending ang kanyang paninindigan, kaya kailangan natin ng ganitong klaseng lider sa ating PNP. Kahit sino pa ang sangkot o gaano pa kataas na tao, hindi siya bumibigay. Ito ay patunay ng kanyang integridad at dedikasyon sa serbisyo,” they said, referring to Torre.
(His resolve is unbending, which is why we need this kind of leader in our PNP. No matter who is involved or how high-ranking they may be, he does not back down. This is a testament to his integrity and dedication to service.)
It can be recalled that Torre played a prominent role in the arrest of former president Rodrigo Duterte, as he assisted elements of the International Police (Interpol) last March in capturing the latter here in the country.
The Young Guns say that Torre’s appointment reflects a commitment to justice and the rule of law, noting his previous roles in high-profile operations and his dedication to police reform.
“His career has been defined by courage, integrity and an unyielding commitment to justice. We believe his leadership will inspire confidence not only within the PNP but also among the Filipino people,” they added.
Torre, currently the director of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), is a graduate of the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) Class of 1993. He also served as the director of the Quezon City Police District (QCPD) and the Davao Regional Police Office.
They expressed optimism that under Torre’s leadership, the PNP will continue to evolve into a more transparent and community-oriented institution.
“We look forward to a PNP that not only enforces the law but also earns the trust and respect of the communities it serves,” they said.
The solons also urged the public to support the new PNP chief in his efforts to bring about positive change within the police force.