By Brian Campued
“Look at me straight in the eye, do I look like somebody who is bitter?”
This was the response of former Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief PGen. Nicolas Torre III, when asked for a comment regarding President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s decision to relieve him from his post as top cop.
In a media interview Wednesday at the House of Representatives, where he visited Mamamayang Liberal (ML) Party-list Rep. Leila de Lima, Torre said he remains on good terms with the President, affirming continued support to the administration.
“Wala… akong sama ng loob. I’m a good soldier—kung may order, I just follow it,” he said.
Torre likewise dispelled allegations that his relationship with the current PNP leadership and with Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla is fractured after the recent developments.
“Simula kahapon sa official statement ni Secretary Jonvic [Remulla], may nasira ba? Wala naman. It’s all the President’s choice, sabi niya, which I supported,” he stressed.
The former PNP chief said he will address issues related to his sudden removal from his post in a statement that he will release “in due time” as he is set to undertake a leave of absence.
“I took a leave of absence, which I will do, I think, the second time in my career,” he said, adding that he is still mulling about the duration of his leave as it will still be subject for approval of the new acting Chief, PLt.Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr.
“Obviously, I need the time. I need the time off. I also need the time off to answer reporters,” he continued in jest.
Torre also wished Nartatez well as the latter took helm of the PNP as its officer-in-charge during the assumption of command ceremony in Camp Crame on Tuesday.
On whether he will accept a new government post, Torre emphasized that he has yet to receive an announcement about such an offer.
“Let’s just wait for the official announcement kung mayroon man… Masyado namang nauuna ang karwahe kapag tatanggapin o hindi, eh wala pa ngang announcement,” he said.
In a Malacañang press briefing, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro confirmed that Marcos will be offering Torre a different position in the government but did not specify any details. (with report from Mela Lesmoras / PTV News)
-jpv
