Former PNP Chief Nicolas Torre Officially Retires, Assumes MMDA General Manager Position
Former Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief General Nicolas Torre III has formally taken optional retirement from the police force, following his recent appointment as the General Manager of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA). This significant career transition marks a new chapter for the high-profile law enforcement official.
Retirement Approval and Effective Date
The National Police Commission has officially approved Torre's optional retirement, which became effective on December 26, 2025. This date coincides with his assumption of duties as the MMDA General Manager on January 19, 2026. The approval process formalizes his departure from the PNP leadership structure after a notable but brief tenure.
Leadership Transition in the Philippine National Police
With Torre's retirement now confirmed, acting PNP chief Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. is positioned for promotion to a four-star general rank. This advancement would elevate him to the status of full-fledged PNP chief, ensuring continuity in the police force's command structure during this period of change.
Background on Torre's PNP Tenure
General Nicolas Torre III's time as PNP chief was marked by significant events, though relatively short in duration. Appointed to lead the national police force in June, his tenure lasted only two months before he was relieved from the position in August by presidential directive. This action followed reported disputes over command authority with the National Police Commission.
During his brief leadership period, Torre notably oversaw operations that led to the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte, highlighting his involvement in high-profile law enforcement matters. His transition to the MMDA represents a shift from national police leadership to metropolitan development authority management, where he will now focus on urban planning and traffic management concerns in the capital region.
The move from PNP chief to MMDA General Manager demonstrates the fluid nature of leadership positions within Philippine government agencies, with experienced officials often transitioning between different roles that utilize their administrative and operational expertise.
