‘Paramihan’: New PNP chief Torre makes drug arrests a performance metric

MANILA — Newly appointed Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III on Monday directed police officers to increase the number of drug-related arrests, making it a new performance metric for the organization.

In a media briefing held after his formal donning of rank and turnover ceremony presided over by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who also emphasized the need to intensify anti-drug efforts, Torre said he planned to work closely with barangay officials to help locate suspected drug offenders.

However, he underscored that operations should ensure that suspects are apprehended alive and that human rights are upheld.

“Kasama sa metrics natin ang number of arrests, paramihan, sige. Paramihan!” Torre said.

(Part of our performance metrics will be the number of arrests—the more, the better!)

Marcos Jr.: 'Extermination' never part of drug war strategy

“Tandaan natin ‘yang mga tao na inaresto mo, hindi mo binaril o pinatay, buhay ‘yan. Andyan ang human rights,” he added.

(Remember, those people you arrest—you didn’t shoot or kill them—they are alive. Human rights still apply.)

Torre gave assurance that police officers will receive legal assistance if they encounter legal challenges while performing their duties.

In his speech, the new PNP chief also pledged to recognize and reward exemplary police work.

“Deliver excellence in your police work, file affidavits, execute warrants, bring criminals to justice, raise your hands in front of judges and fiscals and provide evidence against these criminals to support their conviction. And you will be recognized and rewarded,” Torre said.

“Of course, I have to reiterate that all of these actions must be done within the ambit of the law, evidence-based and rights-respecting,” he continued. 

Torre takes over as PNP chief, vows swift service and accountability