PNP CHIEF Gen. Nicolas Torre III yesterday said an administrative issue between the PNP and the National Police Commission (Napolcom) involving the reassignment of several generals has been resolved.
In a press briefing at Camp Crame, Torre said it was unfortunate that the “conflict” came to public attention, through media, noting it was supposed to be an “internal matter.”
About two weeks ago, Torre issued a series of re-assignments affecting several generals, including Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez who was then PNP deputy chief for administration, and Lt. Gen. Bernard Banac, then commander of the Area Police Command-Western Mindanao, commander Lt. Gen. Bernard Banac, who swapped positions.
Last week, Napolcom came out with a resolution recalling the reassignments. Specifically, it ordered the PNP to issue “corresponding orders” to implement the resolution.
In issuing the resolution, Napolcom said that while the PNP has the power to designate, assign and reassign senior police officers, “the power to review, approve, reverse or modify such acts is within the authority the Napolcom.”
A number of police generals later aired support for Torre whose “vision and direction,” they said, have “enhanced the capability of our personnel, promoted service with speed and empowered every member towards building a better, stronger and more responsive police organization.”
“I would like to believe it’s already okay, it’s already settled,” said Torre in mixed English and Filipino, adding such issues are normal in organizations.
“On the part of the PNP, the book is closed. The case is closed and we would like to move to other issues,” said Torre.
Torre declined to elaborate, saying “these are internal matters that’s better left to the internal systems.”
He said it was unfortunate came out in the media, adding that these are “not for public consumption.”
Asked if the reassignments he ordered will remain in effect, Torre said, “Let’s see in the next few days. If there is none (changes), then it stays. If there is, then it did not stay.”
During flag-raising rites earlier yesterday, Torre thanked those who supported him.
He said support showed that the PNP is united.
“There is no order, there is no obstacle and no challenge can destroy our unity and our commitment to the nation,” he said.
