Remulla: No EJKs Under 'Pitbull' Torre

Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla yesterday expressed full confidence in newly appointed Philippine National Police chief Maj. Gen. Nicolas Torre III, describing him as a tough and action-oriented leader who will bring a "fresh start" to the PNP and boost public safety.

- — With Jose Rodel Clapano

"He's a bulldog, a pitbull. Everyone should be afraid. When you tell General Torre to attack, he attacks," Remulla said in an interview over radio dzBB.

But Remulla stressed that Torre's tenure would not involve violations of due process.

"Arrest at all costs. There will be no extrajudicial killings here," he said.

Torre, currently head of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), was appointed by President Marcos as the 31st PNP chief, replacing Gen. Rommel Marbil, who is set to retire on June 7. Torre will formally assume the post on June 2.

Remulla said Torre brings a decisive and reform-oriented leadership style and is expected to fulfill the President's law enforcement vision with discipline and efficiency.

Torre's appointment also drew endorsement from the Philippine National Police Academy Alumni Association, which described the promotion as a historic milestone for PNPA graduates.

"We are confident that under his leadership, the PNP will continue to uphold its mission to serve and protect the Filipino people with honor, professionalism and a renewed sense of integrity," the group said in a statement.