Malacañang has denied speculations of internal turmoil within the administration of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. following the sudden removal of Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Nicolas Torre III yesterday, August 26.
At a Palace press conference, Palace Press Officer Atty. Claire Castro stressed that President Marcos continues to have full trust in Torre despite the shake-up.
In fact, Castro confirmed that Torre has been offered another position in government, although it will ultimately be up to him whether he accepts it or not.
“Confirm po na may inaalok na posisyon,” Castro said.
When pressed why the leadership change at the PNP happened so abruptly, Castro pointed to the President’s prerogative.
“Maliwanag naman po siguro ang pagkakasabi ni Secretary Jonvic Remulla kahapon at mayroong mga issues na hindi napagkasunduan and we just have to respect the wisdom of the President on this matter,” she added.
Castro also rejected claims that Torre’s exit created disorder within the police force.
“Huwag naman nating masabi na nagkaroon ng messy transition because nagkausap naman po sila at alam po natin na naiintindihan ni General Torre kung ano iyon naganap at nirerespeto rin po niya kung ano po iyong naging desisyon ng Pangulo,” she said.
According to sources, Torre is being considered to head the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), replacing incumbent Director Jaime Santiago, who has already filed his resignation with the Office of the President.