Former Philippine National Police chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III has officially retired from his four-star police general rank, per a National Police Commission order. This clears the path for the new chief, Jose Nartatez, to assume the same rank. The retirement took effect on December 26, 2025, coinciding with his swearing-in as MMDA general manager.
On January 21, 2026, the National Police Commission (Napolcom) announced the retirement of Gen. Nicolas Torre III from the Philippine National Police (PNP). The order, dated January 19, confirmed his "optional retirement," effective December 26, 2025—the same day he was sworn in as general manager of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) before the Office of the Executive Secretary.
Under Napolcom Resolution No. 2026-0029, in line with Republic Act 6975 and 8551, Torre will receive benefits at his police general rank level. Section 40 of RA 6975 defines optional retirement for officers with at least 20 years of "satisfactory active service," distinct from compulsory retirement at age 56.
Torre, who served as the 31st PNP chief for about three months, was originally set to retire in 2027. However, President Bongbong Marcos relieved him in late August 2025 over a reassignment order that violated Napolcom rules. This left incoming chief Jose Nartatez as a lieutenant general, as the four-star rank is traditionally reserved for the PNP chief.
With Torre's formal retirement, Nartatez can now be promoted to police general. The Napolcom had earlier stated that Torre's acceptance of the MMDA role constitutes a resignation from the police force, resulting in the loss of his four-star rank.
Torre first drew attention leading the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) in the arrests of doomsday preacher Apollo Quiboloy and former president Rodrigo Duterte, who is detained at the International Criminal Court on crimes against humanity charges. In his new MMDA position as general manager and spokesperson, Torre pledges to tackle traffic congestion, flooding, and solid waste issues in Metro Manila.
