Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) General Manager and former Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Nicolas Torre III has refuted reports that he opted for early retirement from the police service, stressing that he never submitted any application to leave the 220,000-strong force.
Speaking to reporters in Valenzuela City on Thursday, Torre said he was still trying to determine how an optional retirement order under his name was issued without his knowledge.
“I am going to clear it up with my organization. Wala kasi akong pinipirmahang application e. So let’s leave it at that muna,” Torre said after inspecting the “Bayanihan sa Estero” program at the Kalabingkoho River in Barangay Malanday.
He added that he would first consult with senior PNP officials before drawing any conclusions.
“Mag-usap muna kami ng mga boss. Tingnan ko muna kung anong nangyari,” he added.
Torre’s remarks came a day after General Order No. NHQ-GO-OR-2026-330, dated January 19, was released by the PNP Directorate for Personnel and Records Management.
The order stated that Torre was “optionally retired from the PNP service effective Dec. 26, 2025,” with corresponding longevity pay and retirement benefits approved by the National Police Commission under Resolution No. 2026-0029.
His reported retirement also paved the way for acting PNP chief Lt. Gen. Jose Nartatez Jr. to be promoted to the four-star rank, a distinction reserved for the permanent head of the police organization.