MANILA – President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. gave newly-appointed Philippine National Police (PNP) chief General Nicolas Torre III a marching order ahead of his taking over of the reins of the 231,000-strong police force on Monday.
According to the Chief Executive, he ordered Torre to clean up the police force, act swiftly against erring officers, and ensure the police remain a source of public reassurance and protection.
“Panatilihin mong malinis at marangal ang hanay ng kapulisan,” President Marcos said during the PNP change of command ceremony in Camp Crame on Monday morning.
“Bilisan ang imbestigasyon sa mga kaso laban sa mga pulis na lumabag sa batas upang maibigay natin ang hustisya sa lalong madaling panahon,” he added.
President Marcos also told Torre about the importance of increasing police visibility in the streets.
“Kapag kailangan ng taumbayan, dapat may pulis na agad na reresponde,” Marcos said.
The Chief Executive also called for a focused crackdown on illegal drugs, instructing the PNP to work closely with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) in going after big and small-time drug peddlers and in ensuring that they will be brought to court and also reminded police officers to avoid abusing their authority.
“Iwasan ninyo ang paggamit ng pribilehiyo para sa pansariling benepisyo. Maging instrumento kayo ng katuwiran, kapayapaan, at kaunlaran,” the President said.
Torre assumed command from General Rommel Francisco Marbil, whom Marcos lauded for his leadership marked by integrity, professionalism, and respect for human rights.
“Under your 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 the police wear,” Marcos said.
“A clear mandate to champion peace, serve with honor, and move our nation forward with dignity,” he added. “Let your badge be your daily pledge — not to command — but to serve with integrity.”/PN
