Napolcom, Torre clash on reshuffle

Who has the final say in reshuffles in the Philippine National Police?

- By EMMANUEL TUPAS

The National Police Commission (Napolcom) has ordered the PNP to recall, set aside, and modify the present designations, assignments, and reassignments of Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. and 12 other senior PNP officers.

The Napolcom wants Nartatez back in his post as PNP deputy chief for administration, and his replacement, Lt. Gen. Bernard Banac, reassigned to his previous post as Area Police Command Western Mindanao director.

The two officials switched posts last week on orders of PNP chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III. Sources said Banac and Nartatez remained at their current posts as of yesterday.

In Resolution No. 2025-0531 issued on Thursday, the Napolcom said it has the power to review, approve, reverse, or modify revamps implemented in the PNP.

"Whereas, despite the said issuances, the PNP recently made a series of designations, assignments, and reassignments of police commissioned officers to third-level positions without the required confirmation by the commission en banc," a part of the resolution read.

Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla, who sits as Napolcom chairman, did not reply when asked for comment. The PNP also opted to remain mum on the issue.

Apart from Nartatez and Banac, the Napolcom ordered the reassignment of 11 other senior officials.