Three major tasks are set to be shouldered by the new Philippine National Police Chief, P/Gen. Nicolas Torre III — intensifying the anti-drug campaign, enhancing the PNP’s service by cleansing its ranks, and strengthening police presence in communities to help prevent crime.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. issued these marching orders following Torre’s official installation as the 31st PNP chief on Monday, aside from prioritizing the needs and welfare of the public at the center of their law enforcement campaigns.

“Let your badge be your daily pledge, not to command, but to serve with integrity. Let every decision uphold the law and let every gesture reflect the quiet dignity of true public service,” Marcos Jr. told Torre at the formal change of command ceremony at Camp Crame, QC.

Torre replaced General Rommel Marbil who will be retiring on 7 June, leading the 232,000-strong PNP men and women.

“May the PNP become a source of hope and reassurance to every community you protect,” the President added, further mandating the PNP to continue engaging with communities and partnering with local governments and stakeholders.

“Above all, center every initiative on the needs, rights, and welfare of each Filipino,” the President stressed.

Also, the Chief Executive instructed the new PNP top man to hasten the investigation of cases against erring police officers and deliver justice at once.

Ordering the police force not to abuse their privileges, the President said law enforcers should be instruments of righteousness, peace, and prosperity, urging the men in uniform not to use their privileges for their own benefit.

President Marcos reiterated his order for the PNP to increase police visibility on the streets to ensure public safety and a quick response in case of crimes so that Filipinos will feel that the Police force is there as their defenders at all times.

President Marcos ordered the PNP to continue its campaign against illegal drugs, together with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, through raids and drug seizures, as well as filing complaints against big-time drug dealers and peddlers.

Torre’s installation was said to be his “reward” after the victorious arrest of Former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, sending him to the International Criminal Court at The Hague, Netherlands.

He was then the director of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group when the arrest happened last March.

In a press briefing on Sunday, Vice President Sara Duterte laughed off Torres’ installation as PNP chief when asked by a journalist.

Marcos Jr., on the other hand, expressed gratitude to Marbil for leading the PNP and bringing the police force closer to the people.

“In your (Marbil) stewardship, the PNP became a more people-centered, structured, and regulated institution. You guided your officers to serve with integrity and in doing so, you restored the people’s confidence in the uniform that the police wear,” according to the President.

Face the charges, Torre urges Roque

During a press conference, Torre advised former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque to face the charges.

“There is a valid case currently pending in our courts. Harry Roque is a lawyer, so he should face his cases accordingly,” Torre said in a press conference.

The new police chief also joked about the “two out of 51” arrest warrants linked to Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) Lucky South 99 Outsourcing Inc. in Porac, Pampanga.