ILOILO City – In a major reshuffle of top officials, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) has appointed Director Ralph Rommel Torres as the new acting regional director of PDEA Region 6, effective July 1.
Torres, who previously served as assistant regional director of PDEA Region 9 (Zamboanga Peninsula), replaced Director Melvin Suarez Estoque, who was reassigned to lead the newly established PDEA Negros Island Region (NIR) as acting regional director.
PDEA-6 announced the leadership transition in a statement, describing it as part of the agency’s continued pursuit of “excellence, integrity, and strengthened anti-drug operations and advocacy efforts” in Western Visayas.
“We extend our gratitude to Director Estoque for his guidance and service, and our warm welcome to Director Torres as he begins his tour of duty in Region 6,” PDEA-6 stated.
The appointment of Torres was also welcomed by his former colleagues in Region 9, who lauded his leadership style and legacy.
“From the very beginning of his career until his appointment as ARD, Dir. Torres has been an unwavering presence in PDEA RO9 — a dependable leader, a guiding force, and a strong pillar of support in fulfilling our agency’s mission,” said PDEA Region 9. “We are confident that the same passion, integrity, and excellence will shine even brighter in his new role.”
Iav Levi Valmoria has been designated as the new Assistant Regional Director of PDEA Region 9, succeeding Torres.
The reshuffle comes as PDEA intensifies its campaign against illegal drugs across the regions in line with national anti-drug policy and inter-agency coordination efforts./PN
