Torre becomes new PNP chief, aims for three-minute emergency response

Police Major General Nicolas Torre III became the new chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP) during a change of command ceremony at Camp Crame on Monday and presided over his first command conference as PNP chief on Tuesday.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. challenged Torre to uphold discipline and accountability across the 232,000-strong force amid security threats and persistent concerns over police misconduct.

Torre emphasized in his inaugural speech that under his leadership, the PNP will focus on three pillars: swift and responsive public service, unity and morale within the ranks, and accountability and modernization.

During Tuesday's command conference, Torre discussed with officials how to achieve a target of three-minute emergency response time in major urban centers nationwide, with demonstrations already held in Metro Manila and set for Davao Region.

Torre addressed criticism from Davao City Mayor Baste Duterte regarding his promotion, noting that former PNP chief Ronald 'Bato' Dela Rosa had also been promoted beyond normal rank progression when appointed by President Rodrigo Duterte.

The president urged Torre to maintain a clean police force by fast-tracking investigations into officers accused of breaking the law and delivering justice as soon as possible, while also continuing drug operations against drug lords and leaders.