(UPDATE) MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. picked Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. as next head of the Philippine National Police (PNP) to replace Gen. Nicolas Torre III whose relief was announced on Tuesday.

Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla confirmed that Marcos approved the recommendation to appoint Nartatez, a member of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1992.

Nartatez served as regional director of the National Capital Region Police Office, PNP director for Intelligence, and PNP deputy chief for administration.

He was relegated to Area Police Commander for Western Mindanao early this month.

Nartatez served as police director in Ilocos Norte, the home province of President Marcos. He will retire on March 19, 2027.

Earlier on Tuesday, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin issued the order to Torre.

"You are hereby relieved as Chief, PNP effective immediately," Bersamin said., This news data comes from:http://qg.771bg.com

"For the continuous and efficient delivery of public services in the PNP, you are hereby directed to ensure proper turnover of all matters, documents and information relative to your office," he added.

But no reason given yet for Torres' relief.

Torre has not issued any statement as of posting time.

PNP chief Torre relieved, Nartatez to take over