In a move that has sent ripples through the Philippine law enforcement community, Major General Nicolas Torre III, the officer who led the arrests of former President Rodrigo Duterte and religious leader Apollo Quiboloy, has been appointed as the new chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP).
The announcement was made by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin during a press conference at Malacañang Palace on Thursday. The turnover of command is scheduled for June 2, 2025, replacing the retiring Gen. Rommel Marbil.
A Career Marked by High-Profile Arrests
Torre’s ascent to the top of the PNP comes after a series of high-stakes operations that brought him into the national spotlight. As the director of the PNP Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), he oversaw the arrest of Pastor Apollo Quiboloy, founder of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ, who faced charges of human trafficking and sexual abuse. The operation culminated in a tense standoff at Quiboloy’s compound in Davao City.
More recently, Torre led the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte in March 2025, executing an International Criminal Court (ICC) warrant for alleged crimes against humanity related to Duterte’s controversial anti-drug campaign. The arrest was a significant moment in Philippine history, marking the first time a former president was taken into custody to face international charges.
Presidential Confidence Amidst Controversy
When questioned about the factors influencing Torre’s appointment, Executive Secretary Bersamin emphasized President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s demand for performance and results. “No matter what is ordered of you, you must exhibit some level or a high degree of performance,” Bersamin stated, suggesting that Torre’s track record played a role in his selection.
Despite the controversies surrounding Torre’s past, including his resignation as chief of the Quezon City Police District in 2023 following criticism over his handling of a road rage incident involving a dismissed police officer, his recent accomplishments have overshadowed previous missteps.
A New Era for the PNP
Torre’s appointment is seen by many as a signal of the Marcos administration’s commitment to accountability and reform within the PNP. Members of the House of Representatives, including Speaker Martin Romualdez, have expressed support for Torre, describing him as a “principled and fearless officer” capable of restoring credibility to the police force
As Torre prepares to assume leadership, the nation watches closely, anticipating how his tenure will shape the future of law enforcement in the Philippines.
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