Lacson: Torre’s relief as PNP chief due to overstepping authority

SENATOR Ping Lacson released a statement on August 26, 2025, regarding the relief of Police General Nicolas Torre III as PNP Chief, stating that Torre acted “beyond his authority” by unilaterally relieving his second-in-command, Police Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr.

Lacson explained that the designation and relief of members of the PNP Command Group should be cleared with the President or the ex-officio Chairman of the National Police Commission (Napolcom), and the Secretary of Interior and Local Government.

He noted that even when he was given blanket authority to run the PNP as Chief, he did not exercise absolute authority over the designations of the Command Group. Lacson emphasized that the relief of Torre is the sole prerogative of the President of the Philippines.

Lacson stressed the importance of a smooth transition and transfer of command to ensure that the PNP can continue its mission of maintaining peace and order.