PASTOR Apollo Quiboloy’s tormentor, Brigadier General Nicolas Torre III on Thursday assumed his new post as the 49th director of the Philippine National Police Criminal Investigation and Detection Group.

PNP Chief Directorial Staff Lieutenant Gen. Jon Arnaldo presided over the turnover over command between Brig. Gen. Torre and erstwhile PNP-CIDG director Major Gen. Leo Francisco at Camp Crame.

Torre, a member of PNP Academy ‘Tagapagtaguyod’ Class of 1993 expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the PNP leadership headed by General Rommel Francisco Marbil for their trust and confidence in designating him as the director of the premier PNP investigative unit.

The erstwhile Police Regional Office 11 director in Southern Mindanao also acknowledged the significant accomplishments of Maj. Gen. Francisco as he highlighted his familiarity with the unit’s operations, having previously served as its Deputy Director for Operations.

The soon-to-be 2-star general also emphasized that unity and teamwork will remain essential to the CIDG’s continued success.

For his part, Maj. Gen. Francisco of Philippine Military Academy ‘Tanglaw-Diwa’ Class of 1992 reflected on his tenure, citing the unit’s major achievements, made possible by the dedication of Team CIDG in dismantling several illegal POGO hubs-turned “scam farms” specifically that in Porac, Pampanga and the confiscation of hundreds of millions worth of smuggled cigarettes and illegally refilled liquefied petroleum gas.

The PNP-CIDG was also instrumental in the capture of some of the country’s most wanted terrorists and criminals.

“I couldn’t have achieved this alone. These successes were due to the relentless efforts of the entire CIDG team, from ground operatives to investigators and administrative staff. It was a collective effort, and I am proud to have led such a dedicated unit,” said Maj. Gen. Francisco.

In behalf of Gen. Marbil, Lt. Gen. Arnaldo lauded both leaders for their outstanding service in particular commending Francisco’s outstanding leadership.

The PNP’s no. 4 official emphasized Maj. Gen. Francisco’s vital contributions to national security and public safety, noting that these efforts not only protected vulnerable populations but also strengthened the CIDG’s commitment to justice and the rule of law.

Lt. Gen. Arnaldo also expressed confidence in Brig. Gen. Torre’s capability to lead the CIDG.

“Brig. Gen. Torre’s extensive experience in handling complex criminal investigations and his dedication to public service make him the right person to lead CIDG. I am confident that under his leadership, CIDG will continue its relentless efforts to combat crime and protect the public,” the official said.

AUTHOR PROFILE

Alfred P. Dalizon