MANILA, Philippines — Former Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III has officially retired from the police service. The National Police Commission (Napolcom) formalized the move through a resolution approved on January 19, 2026.
According to PNP General Order No. NHQ-GO-OR-2026-330, Torre’s optional retirement is effective retroactively to December 26, 2025. He retires with the rank of four-star police general, along with all associated longevity pay and retirement benefits.
A Transition to Civil Service Torre’s formal retirement follows his transition to a new high-profile role. On the same day his retirement became effective (Dec. 26), he assumed the position of General Manager of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA). Napolcom previously noted that by accepting a civilian post in the MMDA, Torre had ipso facto (by the very act) resigned from the police force.
Leadership Shifts in the PNP Torre’s departure from the top police post in August 2025 was marked by controversy, stemming from a dispute with Napolcom over the reassignment of several senior police officials. Following his removal, he was placed in a personnel holding unit until his recent civilian appointment.
The formalization of Torre’s retirement clears the path for leadership changes within the PNP. Acting PNP chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., who replaced Torre in an acting capacity, is now expected to be promoted to the full four-star rank of police general—a rank traditionally reserved for a full-fledged, permanent PNP chief.
As Torre begins his tenure at the MMDA headquarters in Pasig, focusing on Metro Manila’s traffic and development challenges, the PNP looks toward a new chapter under Nartatez’s expected permanent leadership.