Police Gen. Nicolas Torre III (right) assumes office as the 31st Chief of the Philippine National Police in a change-of-command ceremony in Camp Crame, Quezon City on Monday, June 2, 2025. (Screengrab from Radio Television Malaca帽ang)
MANILA, Philippines 鈥� President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday challenged newly appointed police chief General Nicolas Torre III to uphold integrity within the Philippine National Police (PNP) ranks and ensure swift justice against abusive officers.
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During a change of command ceremony in Camp Crame, Quezon City, Marcos ordered Torre to officially assume the role of Philippine National Police (PNP) chief.
READ: Torre assumes office as new PNP chief
In his speech, Marcos said that Torre鈥檚 leadership would 鈥渉elp define鈥� the kind of police force his administration aims to build, which, he said, should be one that 鈥渁cts with precision, responds with compassion, and stands as a pillar of accountability.鈥�
鈥淢y challenge to you is to keep the ranks of our police force clean and honorable. Expedite the investigation of cases against officers who have violated the law so that we can deliver justice as soon as possible,鈥� Marcos told Torre.
The president also ordered Torre to strengthen police presence on the streets to ensure safety and respond immediately to crimes.
Furthermore, Marcos ordered Torre to continue the fight against illegal drugs, ensuring that all drug dealers and drug lords face charges upon arrest.
According to Marcos, Torre鈥檚 appointment came at a time 鈥渢hat calls for clarity, courage, and conviction.鈥�
鈥淎s enforcers of the law, the entire police force [are] expected to act with integrity, serve with honesty, and be a pillar of support for our fellow citizens,鈥� the president said.
鈥淎void using your privileges for personal gain. Be instruments of justice, peace, and progress,鈥� he added.
Marcos also said that under Torre鈥檚 leadership, the PNP should continue engaging with communities and partnering with local governments and stakeholders, as well as strengthening its cooperation with other government agencies.
He then expressed hope that the PNP would become a 鈥渟ource of hope and reassurance鈥� for those it protects./mcm/abc