PBBM to name new PNP chief soon as Marbil extension ends June 7

TOP COP. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. shakes hands with Philippine National Police Chief PGEN. Rommel Francisco Marbil during the turnover rites at Camp Crame in Quezon City on April 1, 2024. Marcos is set to announce Marbil’s successor as the top cop’s term extension expires in June, Malacañang said Monday (May 19, 2025). (Photo courtesy: Joan Bondoc / PNA / FILE)

By Darryl John Esguerra | Philippine News Agency

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is expected to announce soon the successor to Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief PGEN. Rommel Francisco Marbil, whose extension is set to expire on June 7.

Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the President is in the process of selecting the next PNP chief.

Among those considered for the post are PNP Deputy Chief for Administration PLTGEN. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., PNP chief directorial staff PLTGEN. Edgar Allan Okubo, National Capital Region Police Office Director PBGEN. Anthony Aberin, and Criminal Investigation and Detection Group Director PMGEN. Nicolas Torre III.

“Ang mga nabanggit po ninyong pangalan ay pulos po lahat iyan ay may integridad at magagaling, sa ngayon po ay wala pa pong ipinapaabot sa atin. Hintayin na lang po natin ang announcement ng Pangulo patungkol diyan.” Castro said.

While all four are seasoned officers, Torre has emerged as the most likely successor, according to insiders and observers familiar with the selection process, citing his track record that includes high-profile operations such as the implementation of arrest warrants against Apollo Quiboloy and former President Rodrigo Duterte.

Meanwhile, Nartatez, though the second highest-ranking officer in the PNP, has faced scrutiny over his perceived closeness to Sen. Imee Marcos.

Okubo and Aberin remain respected figures within the organization and are considered capable managers.

Marcos extended the term of Marbil by four months effective Feb. 7, 2025, his retirement day, to ensure stability during the 2025 midterm elections.

Popular

LWUA assures that private firms behind poor water services will be held accountable

By Brian Campued The Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA) on Tuesday vowed to hold water districts and private entities accountable for their poor water service,...

DPWH forms audit team to check status of flood control projects

By Brian Campued The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has created its own audit team to check and review the status of flood...

PBBM underscores public cooperation as key to better disaster response

By Dean Aubrey Caratiquet President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. reiterated his call on the citizenry to remain on constant alert and exercise vigilant measures at...

PBBM lauds eGov app’s impact on Filipinos, hints at upcoming features

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. recognized the indispensable role of the eGov app in fast-tracking and streamlining the digitalization of government transactions and services,...