DAVAO CITY (June 2) — Newly installed Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III on Monday vowed a sweeping overhaul of the country’s police force—promising faster emergency response, internal cleansing, and a no-nonsense merit-based leadership—as he laid down his bold vision to restore public trust and reassert the rule of law.
Speaking before President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., foreign dignitaries, defense partners, and members of the diplomatic corps at Camp Crame, Torre outlined three strategic directives to redefine policing in the Philippines: swift and responsive public service, internal unity and morale, and accountability through modernization.
“This is a position of trust. I will abide solely by the President’s directive, in faithful service to our nation and in strengthening the Philippine National Police,” Torre said, pledging to lead a force grounded in integrity, discipline, and professionalism.
1. Swift and Responsive Public Service
Torre’s first directive is to institutionalize a 3-minute emergency response time in major urban centers—a significant benchmark in a country grappling with public safety challenges.
“This is not just a target—it is a lifeline,” he declared. “Every Filipino deserves immediate action when calling for help.”
The PNP, under his command, will be a visible and proactive presence—patrolling streets, markets, communities, and other high-density areas to boost citizen confidence and deter crime.
2. Unity and Morale Within the Ranks
Recognizing internal morale as vital to external performance, Torre emphasized the importance of unity within the 220,000-strong police force. He vowed to reward competence and hard work—not influence or endorsements.
“No more promotions based on connections. Appointments will be based solely on merit,” he said. “Action will be rewarded, not appearances.”
He also pledged to provide police personnel with the best training, tools, and support—not only to improve service delivery but to uphold the dignity of the uniform.
3. Accountability and Modernization
Torre’s third directive focuses on overhauling investigative tools and adopting rights-based, technology-driven solutions to improve police operations and restore public trust.
This aligns with President Marcos’ “Bagong Pilipinas” (New Philippines) campaign, which promotes institutional reform, good governance, and citizen-centric programs.
“We will modernize our systems and ensure that all actions are evidence-based and within the ambit of the law,” he said.
Commitment to the Public
In a statement directed to citizens and foreign residents, Torre underscored a zero-tolerance policy on abuse and reaffirmed the PNP’s commitment to equality before the law.
“You no longer need to go from one office to another. The PNP will be your direct line for help,” he assured. “Our laws apply equally to all—Filipino or foreign national.”
A Reformist Tone and Cultural Reach
In a gesture of cultural inclusivity, Torre addressed Filipinos from various regions in Visayan, Ilonggo, and Ilocano, calling for collective action in pursuit of peace and good governance.
“Let us raise the flag of a clean, competent, and trustworthy national police force,” he declared. “Together, let us build a safer, stronger, and more united Philippines.”
Torre, a career officer known for high-level operational command and reformist thinking, dedicated his assumption of office to his late father, MSgt. Rodolfo Torre, himself a former police officer.
He concluded with a silent prayer for guidance, underscoring his spiritual grounding and readiness for the challenges ahead.
“This is more than a beginning—it is a defining moment,” he said. “Let us seize it with courage, humility, and an unwavering commitment to serve.”
Edith Z Caduaya studied Bachelor of Science in Development Communication at the University of Southern Mindanao.
The chairperson of Mindanao Independent Press Council (MIPC) Inc.
