Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday administered the oath of office to Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. as the new chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP). The oath-taking ceremony, which included the donning of Nartatez's four-star rank, was held at Malaca±an Palace in Manila.
According to Philippines News Agency, in a press briefing, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro stated that Marcos vouched for Nartatez's competence to lead the entire police force. Castro conveyed that the President expressed his greetings and support to General Nartatez for his leadership within the police force and recognized the important roles played by the police in maintaining order and security in the country.
The 32nd PNP chief, Nartatez, was given arrival honors shortly before noon upon returning to the PNP headquarters at Camp Crame in Quezon City. He was welcomed by Deputy Chief for Administration Lt. Gen. Bernard Banac. In his speech, Nartatez vowed to lead the police force in faithful service to the Constitution, enforcing the rule of law without fear or favor, and directed PNP members to work together to achieve Marcos' goal of a safe and secured community.
Nartatez outlined his plans for the PNP, including enhancing security for vital installations, managing crowd control, and anticipating threats. He emphasized strict accountability in managing resources to serve police operations, strengthening morale and welfare, and ensuring integrity at all levels within the force.
Nartatez has been acting as the PNP chief since August 2025, following the relief of his predecessor, Gen. Nicolas Torre III, after a dispute in the reorganization of the police force. Torre officially retired on Dec. 26, 2024, allowing Nartatez to assume the full-fledged role of PNP chief.
Nartatez's career began in the PNP Special Action Force before moving into investigative and command assignments. He held several key positions within the PNP, including director of the Finance Service from 2020 to 2022, and commanded the police forces of Ilocos Norte, Calabarzon, and the National Capital Region Police Office. He was later named as the Deputy Chief for Administration.
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) congratulated Nartatez on his promotion, highlighting his leadership and dedication in guiding the PNP. The DILG expressed confidence in his ability to lead with discipline, integrity, and resolve, reaffirming its support for his efforts to restore professionalism within the ranks.
National Police Commission (Napolcom) Vice Chairperson and Executive Officer Rafael Vicente Calinisan also congratulated Nartatez, noting the promotion as a significant development in the partnership between Napolcom and the PNP, fostering collaboration and shared commitment to public service.
