Eight NCR Police Chiefs Dismissed for Failing Response Standards

In a significant shake-up within the Philippine National Police (PNP), eight police commanders in Metro Manila were dismissed on June 16, 2025, due to their inability to meet the newly implemented five-minute response policy for emergency calls. This policy, introduced by PNP chief General Nicolas Torre III, aims to enhance police visibility and responsiveness across the National Capital Region (NCR).

The dismissal comes as part of a broader initiative by the PNP to improve operational effectiveness and accountability among its ranks. General Torre emphasized that the swift response to emergency situations is crucial for public safety, stating, "If they can’t cope with it, if they can’t step up to that standard, we will look for commanders who will do so."

The response time policy mandates that police units must respond to calls within five minutes, an initiative that Torre argued is achievable based on his previous success as the director of the Quezon City Police District (QCPD). He noted, "This is our commitment to the President and to the Filipino people," highlighting the importance of effective leadership in achieving these standards.

In a press conference, Torre remarked, “We have declared the positions of eight chiefs of police in NCR open for qualified candidates who can meet our high standards.” He indicated that further dismissals could follow if performance does not improve, particularly among commanders in other regions, as he had previously cautioned some provincial commanders in Central Visayas during a recent visit.

Experts in law enforcement and public policy have weighed in on the implications of these changes. Dr. Maria Santos, a criminology professor at the University of the Philippines, stated, "This move can be seen as a necessary step towards accountability within the police force, but it also raises questions about the support systems in place for these commanders to perform effectively."

Additionally, Dr. John Lee, a public safety expert from Ateneo de Manila University, pointed out that while the five-minute response time is a commendable goal, the implementation must be backed by adequate resources and training for police officers. He stated, "Without proper training and equipment, setting such stringent standards could lead to further issues within the department."

The PNP has faced scrutiny in recent years regarding its responsiveness and effectiveness, particularly amid rising crime rates in urban areas. The dismissal of these commanders is seen as a pivotal moment for the organization, indicating a shift towards stricter compliance and performance metrics.

Moreover, the PNP's recent initiatives align with broader efforts by the Philippine government to reform law enforcement practices and enhance public trust. As noted by presidential spokesperson, Atty. Marco Reyes, “The President is committed to ensuring that the police force is not only visible but also effective in maintaining peace and order.”

Looking forward, the PNP's approach to managing personnel and enforcing accountability will be critical. The success of the five-minute response policy will likely depend on how well the organization can adapt and provide the necessary support to its officers in the field. The coming months will reveal whether these changes lead to improved outcomes for public safety in Metro Manila and beyond.

In conclusion, the recent dismissals signal a potential turning point for the PNP amidst ongoing discussions about police reform in the Philippines. As General Torre continues to implement these measures, the focus will remain on achieving tangible improvements in response times and overall police effectiveness, crucial for restoring public confidence in law enforcement.