Quezon city: The National Police Commission (Napolcom) announced plans to issue a resolution affirming Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr.'s appointment as acting chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP). This move is aimed at ensuring that Nartatez can fully exercise his powers over the PNP.

According to Philippines News Agency, the announcement was made during a press briefing at the Napolcom headquarters in Quezon City. Napolcom Vice Chairperson and Executive Officer Rafael Vicente Calinisan emphasized the importance of the resolution, stating that an officer-in-charge (OIC) is limited to daily routine functions without discretionary power. By affirming Nartatez as acting chief, he would have full discretionary powers necessary for effective leadership of the PNP.

The need for this resolution follows President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s removal of former PNP Chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III. Despite his removal, Torre retains a four-star rank due to his active status in the police service. This situation requires Nartatez, currently a three-star lieutenant general, to wait for Torre to potentially retire early before he can be appointed as a full-fledged chief PNP, as regulations allow only one four-star rank police general at a time.

Calinisan assured that the Napolcom and the PNP will maintain good working relations. He emphasized the importance of following proper procedures and maintaining open communication lines, expressing full trust and support for Gen. Nartatez without micromanaging the PNP.

Both Nartatez and Torre are set to reach the mandatory retirement age in March 2027.