PRO-NIR supports PNP chief Torre amid reshuffle row

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY – The newly formed Police Regional Office–Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) has declared its support for Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III amid rising tensions between the PNP and the National Police Commission (Napolcom) over a controversial reshuffling of senior officers.

In a statement posted on social media over the weekend, PRO-NIR expressed solidarity with Torre’s leadership and praised his ongoing reforms aimed at improving operational efficiency, accountability, and public trust.

“The men and women of PRO-NIR stand united, expressing our support and solidarity in the leadership of PNP chief Torre in exercising his power and authority under the law,” the statement read.

It commended Torre’s commitment to professionalism within the police force, describing it as essential to maintaining peace and order.

The controversy stems from Torre’s recent reassignment of two high-ranking police officials.

Napolcom contends that the move violated proper legal procedures under Republic Act 6975, or the Department of the Interior and Local Government Act, which grants the commission oversight on the reassignment of third-level officers—those with the rank of colonel to general.

While the law gives the PNP chief certain powers over personnel movements, Napolcom argues that reassignments at the senior level require en banc approval, which it says was not obtained in this case.

Despite the dispute, PRO-NIR reiterated its commitment to serving with unity, dedication, and pride under Torre’s direction.

During the first press briefing at the temporary PRO-NIR regional office located inside the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office (Nocppo) headquarters in Barangay Estefania, Police Brig. Gen. Arnold Thomas Ibay introduced Napolcom-NIR director Owen De Luna to the media.

De Luna emphasized the importance of collaboration between the police, the media, and Napolcom in fulfilling their shared mandate.

“Help us by giving comments and suggestions on our output and programs,” De Luna said, highlighting the value of public engagement.