MMDA General Manager Nicolas Torre III – Photo courtesy of Philippine News Agency (PNA).
Former Philippine National Police chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III automatically ended his police service after taking his oath as Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) general manager, the National Police Commission (Napolcom) said on Wednesday.
Napolcom Executive Officer Rafael Calinisan said there was no need for Torre to submit optional retirement papers, though he would still retain benefits from his previous service.
“I have not signed any optional retirement document. There is none. There is no need,” Calinisan said, explaining the legal basis of the automatic separation.
The commission also noted that Torre’s appointment on December 26 left his four-star rank vacant, which President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. may now fill.
Acting PNP Chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. emphasized that Napolcom has the authority to determine Torre’s official status, noting that the rules differ from election-related resignations.
Torre served as PNP chief from June to August 2025 and was replaced after reportedly not complying with Napolcom directives on personnel reassignments.
Nartatez, who was previously deputy chief for administration, formally succeeded Torre as head of the national police following the MMDA appointment.
