President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has officially appointed Police Major General (PMGen.) Nicolas Torre as the next Chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), succeeding PGen. Rommel Francisco Marbil, who is set to retire from service.
According to Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, the president chose Torre from a shortlist of five candidates, ultimately selecting him based on merit and professional performance.
PMGen. Torre will become the first graduate of the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA), Class of 1993, to assume the top post in the PNP.
Bersamin emphasized that Torre’s appointment is a result of his qualifications and achievements rather than political considerations.
Malacañang defended the selection process, asserting that it falls under the absolute discretion of the president and is not subject to external questioning.
While Torre played a key role in the recent high-profile arrests of Kingdom of Jesus Christ leader Pastor Apollo Quiboloy and former President Rodrigo Duterte, Bersamin clarified that these actions were not the sole basis for his promotion.
He further explained that while all promotions are considered rewards, they also reflect the corresponding merit of the appointee.
President Marcos also took into account other leadership qualities and attributes among the contenders, ultimately finding Torre best suited for the position.
Currently holding the rank of two-star general, PMGen. Torre is set to receive his four-star rank and assume full leadership during the formal turnover ceremony scheduled for June 2, 2025.