Manila: Philippine National Police Chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III has been relieved of his post effective immediately. Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin made the announcement Tuesday.

According to Philippines News Agency, Bersamin, in a letter dated August 25, directed Torre to relinquish his position and ensure a proper turnover. The letter emphasized the need for the continuous and efficient delivery of public services within the PNP, instructing Torre to ensure a smooth transition of all matters, documents, and information related to his office. As of now, Malaca±ang has not provided further details regarding the decision.

The PNP has remained silent on the issue. Members of the media stationed at Camp Crame are attempting to get reactions from Torre and PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo, but no responses have been received yet. Torre, who became the 31st PNP chief and the fourth under the Marcos administration in June, was the first PNP chief from the PNP Academy and was scheduled to retire on March 11, 2027.

Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada stated that Torre's relief is a presidential prerogative made in the public's best interest. Estrada emphasized that Torre, like all executive appointees, serves at the President's pleasure and expressed trust that the decision was made with the Filipino people's best interests in mind.

Former PNP chief and Senator Panfilo Lacson pointed out that Torre "went beyond his authority" by relieving his deputy, Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., without clearance from higher authorities, which should have been approved by the President or the National Police Commission. However, Lacson acknowledged that Torre's removal ultimately rests with the President and stressed the importance of a smooth transition to maintain the PNP's mission of peace and order.

Senator Imee Marcos described Nartatez, who is set to replace Torre, as competent and honest, noting his previous service as Ilocos Norte provincial police director during her governorship. Senate President Francis Escudero admitted that the decision surprised many, including himself, but reiterated that any PNP chief serves at the President's pleasure and expressed confidence that the change would not disrupt peace and order.