
IT is difficult to determine whether the recent events in PBGen. Nick Torre III’s police career were mere coincidences or part of a greater narrative combining challenges and serendipitous moments.
The public is well aware of the complexities and triumphs that have characterized his distinguished career. Despite the occasional controversy, the outcomes have generally favored the general, solidifying his reputation as a capable leader.
I share this observation as someone who has been repeatedly surprised by the unexpected events that seem to follow Torre.
A recent instance, which gained significant attention on social media, placed him once again in the public eye—not for a high-profile operation, but for a personal act of kindness.
The story began when a young woman, 23-year-old student Melaiza Fernandez, became a victim of mobile phone snatching in Makati City.
In a viral social media post, Fernandez publicly thanked Torre and several Makati police officers for recovering her stolen phone and apprehending the suspect.
According to a report by PMaj. Welken Noblejas of the Makati Police, the CIDG chief was traveling along EDSA in a CIDG marked vehicle when he noticed Fernandez crying on the Guadalupe Nuevo Bridge around 7:40 pm on January 7.
Recognizing a potential incident, Torre and his driver attempted to apprehend the suspect. However, the snatcher managed to evade capture, disappearing into the chaos of fast-moving vehicles and fading into the darkness.
Unwilling to abandon the victim, Torre personally escorted Fernandez to the Makati Police Station, where he coordinated a follow-up operation.
The effort proved successful, leading to the arrest of the suspect, identified as 18-year-old Russel Villanueva, alias “Punggok.” In a subsequent operation, the victim’s cell phone was recovered.
Throughout my career documenting police work, I’ve written extensively about acts of kindness and heroism within the Philippine National Police, often referred to as “PNP Good Deeds.”
These stories usually highlight the efforts of mid-ranking or lower-ranking officers.
What makes this particular incident remarkable is that the act of compassion and swift action came from a high-ranking official—a police general, no less.
It’s not a question of rank or position; whether a patrolman or a general performs such a deed, it brings pride to the organization.
PBGen. Nicanor “Nick” Torre III’s intervention in this case is a shining example of how police work can transcend duty and showcase humanity, even from the most unexpected responders.