“You never really leave a place you once served; it becomes part of who you are – a grateful and true public servant.” – Tin
In a meaningful and festive homecoming marked by cultural pride and a strong sense of community, Police General Nicolas D. Torre III, Chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), returned to Batangas as the Guest of Honor during the culmination of the 38th Sublian Festival in celebration of its 56th Foundation Day on July 23, 2025. His return, amidst the inclement weather brought by the southwest monsoon (Habagat), emphasized the enduring partnership between the police force and the community he once served as the Chief of Police.
Upon his arrival, the PNP Top Cop was warmly welcomed by Batangas City Mayor Mario Vittorio “Marvey” Mariño, and Congresswoman Beverly Rose Dimacuha- Mariño, together with Police Brigadier General Jack L. Wanky, Regional Director of Police Regional Office 4A and Police Colonel Geovanny Emerick A Sibalo, Acting Provincial Director of Batangas PPO. The esteemed guests, including PGen Torre, graced the vibrant annual Sublian Festival which is rooted in the traditional Subli prayer dance dedicated to the Mahal na Poong Sto. Niño. Unbothered by the persistent rain, PGen Torre lauded the Batangueños for proudly preserving and showcasing their shared values and traditions through colorful performances and local delicacies – a symbol of their undampened community spirit and unwavering faith.
Following the event, PGen Torre visited the Batangas City Command Center where he commended the state-of-the-art facility for its significant contribution to the swift response of police officers during emergencies and calamities, in line with his three key pillars of leadership. He also encouraged the Batangueños to dial 911, reiterating, “Huwag na kayong maghanap ng pulis sa presinto, sapagkat kami ay nasa inyong mga telepono. Tumawag sa 911, darating kami sa loob ng limang minuto.”
In a special ceremony, the PNP Chief was honored for his dedicated service during his term as the Chief of Police from March 2012 to November 2013, a period marked by his strong advocacy for community-based policing and strengthening anti-crime operations. He was awarded a Certificate of Commendation and a Symbolic Key from Mayor Mariño, Congresswoman Dimacuha, and City Mayor’s Secretary Atty. RD Dimacuha. The Batangas City People’s Council (BCPC) also presented him with a Plaque of Appreciation, while the Sangguniang Panlungsod (City Council) awarded him a resolution declaring him an “Adopted Son of Batangas City.” This recognition acknowledged his significant programs implemented in the city, including the “One Radio Frequency,” the “5-minute response time,” and the composition of the Bike Patrol.
Moreover, Batangas City was recognized as the top performing city in terms of the large number of firearms turned in under the “Balik Armas Program,” a testament to PGen Torre’s leadership and his commitment to operational efficiency, intelligence-driven policing and community partnership.
During his visit, PGen Torre also took time to reconnect with his former colleagues at the Batangas Component City Police Station and other Batangueños, reinforcing the bond between a true servant-leader and the community he once protected.
PGen Torre’s return to Batangas was not only a celebration of leadership and legacy, but also a tribute to the strong relationship he built with the community. His visit underscored the continuing collaboration between the police force and the local government in ensuring peace and order, and fostering community development.
