Newly appointed Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Police General Nicolas Torre III remained unbothered by the criticism and accusations surrounding his recent appointment, assuring the public, especially perceived 'political enemies' of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s administration that they have nothing to fear from the police force as long as they abide by the law.
In his first press conference as the country’s top cop on Monday, June 2, after officially assuming his post, Torre said he welcomes public feedback, including criticism, and considers it a part of a healthy democracy.
The new PNP chief responded to allegations that his appointment was a “reward” for overseeing high-profile arrests, including that of former President Rodrigo Duterte and Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KJC) detained pastor Apollo Quiboloy.
During his time as director of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), Torre oversaw the implementation of a warrant issued by the International Criminal Court that led to Duterte’s arrest.
As Davao Region police chief, he also led the arrest of Quiboloy for alleged qualified trafficking and child sexual abuse.
Torre dismissed such allegations and assured the public, especially critics of the Marcos administration—that they have nothing to fear from the police, as long as they remain within the bounds of the law.
"Matakot silang gumawa ng labag sa batas because ang labag sa batas, 'yun lang naman ang kinakatakutan natin. Everything should be done within the bid of the law,” he stated.
"Aside from that, ‘yun na nga sa Bagong Pilipinas ang gusto ng pulis, ligtas ka. Anong kinakatakot mo? Ligtas sila, huwag lang silang gumawa ng mali kasi hindi sila makakaligtas," he added.
Despite the political implications of these arrests, Torre vowed to maintain a professional, law-abiding police force under his leadership, grounded in the ideals of the administration’s “Bagong Pilipinas” campaign.
