Police Major General Nicolas D. Torre III expressed his gratitude on Saturday after being recognized by the Volunteers Against Crime and Corruption (VACC) for his leadership and reform efforts.
“I’m really happy that groups like VACC, especially Chairman Boy Evangelista, are noticing what we’re doing. It’s encouraging and inspiring to know that our work is being seen,” Torre shared in a radio interview.
Chairman Evangelista praised Torre for his decisive and hands-on leadership, describing him as a police official with “courage, heart, and political will.” He highlighted Torre’s focus on discipline, police visibility, and quick response times.
When asked about the selection for the next chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), Torre was clear that the decision rests solely with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
“This isn’t something we lead. It’s the President’s call. But I’m always ready to follow whatever leadership decides,” he said.
Torre took pride in his “three-minute response” initiative, which he first piloted in Quezon City and later implemented in Davao when he served as regional director. He said this program aligns perfectly with the President’s push for faster police action and stronger street presence.
“What the President wants is fast action and police presence on the streets. That’s been our goal from the start, and we’ve proven that the three-minute response time really works,” he explained.
He also voiced strong support for the ongoing internal cleansing campaign led by outgoing PNP Chief Gen. Rommel Francisco D. Marbil, praising the strict discipline enforced throughout the ranks.
“No one is exempt from internal cleansing, and no wrongdoing should be overlooked. Discipline is the foundation of a strong organization,” Torre emphasized.
The general also stressed the need to improve the police recruitment and screening process, ensuring only the most qualified and upright candidates join the force.
“We’re going to strengthen screening to make sure every new PNP member is clean and qualified,” he said.
On the technology front, Torre highlighted upgrades to the PNP’s 911 system and a modernized command center. These improvements allow emergency calls from anywhere in the Philippines to be quickly routed to operators at Camp Crame, making coordination more efficient nationwide.
Before wrapping up, Torre urged the public to keep supporting the PNP through proper channels like 911 and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group, especially for cases that need thorough investigation.
“We’re always ready to help. If you need assistance, the CIDG is here, and the 911 hotline is open to all Filipinos,” he assured.