The historic first Command Visit of Police General Nicolas D. Torre III, as the Chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP) took place on July 18 and 19, 2025, in SOCCSKSARGEN—the region of his humble origin, where he grew up as a true public servant.
The Chief PNP together with his wife, Mrs. Patricia Jane P. Torre, the National Adviser of the PNP Officers’ Ladies Club Foundation Inc. (OLCFI), along with several high-ranking officials from the National Headquarters, was warmly welcomed by the Police Regional Office 12 (PRO 12) led by Police Brigadier General Arnold P. Ardiente, Regional Director.
During the visit, the PNP Top Cop led in the Blessing and Inauguration of PRO 12’s new facilities in Camp Gen Paulino T Santos, Tambler, General Santos City, including the PNCO Condominium, APOLE Twin Building, and the new PRO 12 Multi-Purpose Hall. Various senior officials from the Regional Headquarters, Regional Support Units, and representatives from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) were also present in the said activities.
PGen Torre also had his ‘Talk to Men’ held at the PRO 12 Covered Court, where he personally engaged with the police officers in the region to boost their morale and express his support. He demonstrated his deep concern to the police force through direct interaction with the rank and file—a concrete depiction of his second core pillar in leadership: strengthening unity and morale within the ranks. Despite his current rank, PGen Torre did not hesitate to mingle with the personnel, personally speaking to, shaking hands with, and thanking each one for their relentless service.
Meanwhile, during a press conference attended by local media members, PGen Torre personally showcased the PNP’s Emergency 911 Response System, allowing the media to witness its actual operational effectiveness. He also emphasized that PNP is utilizing all modern equipment and resources to expedite responses to incidents as fast as five minutes or even earlier, enhancing the organization’s campaign against crime nationwide.
From General Santos City, Police General Torre then proceeded to Koronadal City where he served as the Keynote Speaker of this year’s T’nalak Festival Celebration, which coincided with the 59th Foundation Anniversary of the province of South Cotabato. This was not only an official duty but also a personal homecoming for the PNP Chief.
Although he was born in Jolo, Sulu, he grew up and completed his education in Koronadal. He is a product of Notre Dame of Marbel and Koronadal National Comprehensive High School; both located in the city. His attendance at the T’nalak was like a return to the community that shaped him.
PGen Torre’s return to the city where he was honed, which he called ‘the town of his youth,’ symbolizes a humbling story of resilience and perseverance. He expressed his deep gratitude to those who became part of his life during his elementary and high school years. His presence truly brought honor and recognition not only to Koronadal City but to the entire province of South Cotabato.
In his speech, the PGen Torre reiterated the PNP’s mandate, in accordance with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive, to ensure that peace and order are effectively maintained in the country, reinforced with the quick response of police officers to any crime. He also took time to further explain the current PNP 911 Emergency Hotline, which he said is “not just words but actually works” and that it effectively addresses the needs of the public. This provided the public with an opportunity to better understand the nature and concepts of the existing PNP program.
Likewise, PGen Torre also visited the South Cotabato Police Provincial Office (SCPPO) to reinforce the PNP’s commitment to grassroots leadership and operational excellence. There, the PNP Top Cop discussed the key principles of proactive policing. He reiterated that the first responding officer must be capable of controlling any situation with confidence, presence of mind, and a full grasp of the force continuum, underscoring the importance of communication and tactical competence in ensuring public safety. He also personally tested the operational readiness of the PPO’s communication systems, including the radio responsiveness similar with what he did to other Police Provincial Offices and their subordinate units, demonstrating the value of coordination and connectivity in modern law enforcement.
The CPNP’s Command Visit clearly conveyed two messages: to build a stronger PNP organization and to embrace one’s own roots. It was not only a show of presence, but an excellent reminder that leadership, discipline, and compassion are the foundations of an empowered and responsive police force.
