Former PNP Chief Torre Denies Optional Retirement Amid MMDA Appointment
In a media interview held in Valenzuela City on Thursday, January 22, 2026, former Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Nicolas Torre III firmly denied reports that he had availed himself of optional retirement following his recent appointment as Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) general manager.
Clarification on Retirement Status
Torre explicitly stated that he did not file any application for optional retirement, emphasizing his surprise at the media inquiries on the matter. "Wala kasi akong pinipirmahang application e. I did not file optional retirement," he told reporters, translating to "I didn't sign any application. I did not file for optional retirement." He clarified that he has yet to discuss the issue thoroughly with his superiors, noting that "I-discuss muna namin kasi lahat naman ay napapag-usapan eh. Baka hindi lang na discuss ng todo… Kausapin ko muna ang mga boss ko," meaning "We'll discuss it first because everything is talked about anyway. Maybe it just wasn't fully discussed… I'll talk to my bosses first."
Response to Turnover Ceremony and Dual Roles
When questioned about a potential turnover ceremony reportedly scheduled for the week of January 22 or the following week, Torre indicated he had not been informed about such plans. "Just leave it at that kasi marami pa nga akong icle-clear out sa organization… I'll just wait for the order of the President regarding this matter," he remarked, highlighting his focus on organizational adjustments and awaiting presidential directives.
Regarding the possibility of retaining his PNP rank while serving as MMDA general manager, Torre pointed out that this scenario is not unprecedented. "It's not the first time that a police officer has worked for other agencies," he said, citing examples of active police officers who have served in other government bodies like the Bureau of Immigration. He stressed that such deployments are at the President's discretion, "to deploy people in accordance to the needs as he sees fit."
Official Documentation and Implications
According to General Order NHQ-GO-OR-2026-330 dated January 19, 2026, and released on Wednesday, January 21, the National Police Commission (Napolcom) approved Torre's optional retirement effective December 26, 2025. This date coincides with his assumption as MMDA general manager on January 19, 2026. With this approval, acting PNP chief Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. is expected to be promoted to a four-star general and assume the role of full-fledged PNP chief, marking a significant transition in the country's law enforcement leadership.
The situation underscores ongoing discussions about personnel movements within Philippine government agencies, as Torre awaits further clarification from higher authorities while continuing his duties at the MMDA.
