PNP chief vows 3-minute police emergency response time

If trouble erupts in the neighborhood, call the police and get help in three minutes.

- By EMMANUEL TUPAS

It's a promise newly installed Philippine National Police chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III made yesterday as he officially took over the 235,000-strong PNP from retired Gen. Rommel Marbil.

At the turnover ceremony led by President Marcos, Torre said his three-minute response policy, which he implemented when he was director of the Quezon City Police District, would now be in effect in major urban centers nationwide.

"This is not just a benchmark, it is a lifeline. Every call for help deserves immediate action and attention. We will be present, you'll see us in the streets, in communities, at marketplaces and in every place where our presence is needed to give you peace of mind," he said in a speech.

The President led the turnover ceremony yesterday at Camp Crame.

"My challenge to you: keep the police ranks clean and honorable," he said.