Current PNP Chief of the Philippines (2026 Update)

The Philippine National Police (PNP) serves as the main law enforcement agency in the country. It is responsible for maintaining peace, order, and public safety in every city and province of the Philippines.

As of 2026, the current PNP Chief is Police Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Corpuz Nartatez Jr. He was appointed as the acting PNP chief after the relief of the former top officer, showing the government’s trust in his ability to lead.

Under his leadership, the PNP continues to move toward modernization and transparency, focusing on discipline, accountability, and stronger public trust in the police force.

Who Is the Current PNP Chief of the Philippines?

The chief PNP of the Philippines as of 2026 is Police Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Corpuz Nartatez Jr. He officially assumed the role of acting PNP Chief on August 26, 2025, after the relief of Police General Nicolas Torre III from his post.

His appointment was made by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., following a recommendation from the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM). The confirmation came from Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla and Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, who expressed confidence in his leadership and integrity.

As the PNP Chief 2026, PLTGEN Nartatez now oversees all national police operations from the PNP headquarters at Camp Crame, Quezon City, ensuring that the organization continues to deliver efficient and transparent service to the Filipino people.

Early Life and Education

Police Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Corpuz Nartatez Jr. was born on March 19, 1971, in Santa, Ilocos Sur, a quiet town known for its deep sense of community and discipline. Growing up in an Ilocano family, he was raised with strong values of honesty, hard work, and respect for authority, principles that later guided his career in public service.

He entered the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) in 1988 and graduated as part of the Tanglaw-Diwa Class of 1992. His training in the academy molded him into a disciplined and mission-driven leader. It also prepared him for the challenges of serving in the Philippine National Police, where he would later rise through the ranks with integrity and commitment.

To strengthen his leadership and management skills, Nartatez pursued a Master’s degree in Public Administration, equipping him with both the discipline of a soldier and the vision of a public servant.

Journey in the Philippine National Police

PLTGEN Jose Melencio Corpuz Nartatez Jr. began his service in the Philippine National Police in 1992, marking the start of a long and dedicated career in law enforcement. For more than thirty years, he has served the country in various capacities, earning respect for his professionalism, leadership, and discipline.

He started his journey as a young officer and gradually took on greater responsibilities within the organization. Over the years, he has held several key positions, including:

• Provincial Director of Ilocos Norte Police Provincial Office
  
• Regional Director of Police Regional Office 4A (CALABARZON)
  
• Director of the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO)
  
• Director of Finance Service, Comptrollership, and Intelligence units
  
• Deputy Chief for Administration, one of the highest positions in the PNP hierarchy

Throughout his career, the chief PNP has been known for his hands-on approach to leadership.

Appointment as Acting PNP Chief

The leadership transition in the Philippine National Police took place in August 2025 after the relief of Police General Nicolas Torre III. Following this change, PLTGEN Jose Melencio Corpuz Nartatez Jr. was designated as the Officer-in-Charge (OIC) of the organization starting August 26, 2025. After a short period of transition, he was formally confirmed as the Acting PNP Chief on September 1, 2025.

This appointment reflected the government’s full confidence in his ability to lead the police force. His long record of service, combined with his experience in both administrative and field operations, made him the ideal choice to guide the organization through continuous reforms and modernization.

The formal turnover of leadership was held at Camp Crame, Quezon City, following the PNP’s long-standing tradition of dignified ceremonies to mark a change in command. The event symbolized stability, continuity, and respect for the institution.

Leadership Vision and Agenda

PLTGEN Jose Melencio Corpuz Nartatez Jr. stands firm in his support for the PNP Focused Agenda, which aligns with the national call for transformation under the theme “Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas.” His vision centers on building a modern, disciplined, and citizen-focused police force that truly serves the public with honesty and efficiency.

One of his main goals is to strengthen discipline and internal accountability within the organization. He believes that every police officer must act with integrity and uphold public trust in the Philippine National Police.

He also prioritizes enhancing cybercrime and anti-drug operations, ensuring the PNP adapts to modern challenges through advanced training, technology, and intelligence coordination.

Another core focus of his leadership is improving community relations and police visibility. By increasing public engagement and ensuring faster response to local concerns, the PNP aims to rebuild confidence and cooperation between officers and citizens.

During his public briefings, he often highlights his guiding principle “Serbisyong mabilis, tapat, at nararamdaman.” This message reflects his goal to make the police service efficient, sincere, and responsive to the needs of every Filipino.

Recent Public Engagements and Activities

The chief PNP of the Philippines, PLTGEN Jose Melencio Corpuz Nartatez Jr., continues to demonstrate active involvement in police operations and national security matters. On November 3, 2025, he led a comprehensive press briefing at Camp Crame, Quezon City, where he presented updates on the national crime situation, law enforcement achievements, and security measures during Undas 2025. His report highlighted the peaceful and orderly observance of the holiday, reflecting the PNP’s coordinated efforts across the country.

He also served as the Presiding Officer during the Turnover of Office Ceremony for the Directorate for Operations held at the PNP Multi-Purpose Center. The event marked the formal transition of leadership from PMGEN Nicolas Salvador to PMGEN Ronnie Francis Cariaga, reinforcing the PNP’s tradition of dignified and transparent command succession.

Beyond internal leadership, the chief PNP of the Philippines continues to strengthen partnerships with other agencies, including the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and the Philippine Coast Guard. This collaboration ensures unified action in maintaining peace, safety, and disaster readiness nationwide.

Major Achievements and Reforms

Since assuming office, the PNP Chief 2026, PLTGEN Jose Melencio Corpuz Nartatez Jr., has focused on results that strengthen peace and order across the country. Under his watch, the Philippine National Police has improved operational coordination among regional and national units, allowing faster response to both crime and public emergencies.

One of his notable efforts is strengthening cybersecurity and digital monitoring systems to combat online crime. Through the Anti-Cybercrime Group, the PNP has increased vigilance against scams, hacking, and other online threats affecting Filipino citizens.

In Mindanao, his leadership helped stabilize the situation in Tipo-Tipo, Basilan, where tensions were peacefully resolved through cooperation between security forces and local leaders. He also oversaw the safe management of public rallies and large gatherings in Metro Manila, ensuring that citizens’ rights were respected while maintaining peace.

The PNP Chief 2026 continues to implement reforms in finance management, intelligence sharing, and community relations. These efforts aim to create a more efficient and trustworthy police organization that works closely with the public.

The Role of the PNP Chief

The PNP Chief is the highest-ranking officer in the Philippine National Police and serves as the organization’s main leader, overseeing the entire organization. The position is defined under Republic Act No. 6975, also known as the Department of the Interior and Local Government Act of 1990. This law outlines the powers, duties, and qualifications required to lead the country’s police force.

Under this law, the President of the Philippines appoints the Chief PNP from a list of the most senior and qualified officers recommended by the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM). The appointee must not be within six months of reaching the mandatory retirement age to qualify.

The chief holds the rank of Police General, equivalent to a four-star general in the military. This rank signifies the highest level of command and responsibility in the police service.

The position comes with a four-year term limit, but the President may extend it in times of war or national emergency. The law also sets a mandatory retirement age of 56 to ensure leadership renewal within the force.

The Command Group Under the Current Leadership

The Philippine National Police operates under a clear and organized command structure designed to ensure smooth coordination across all departments. Working alongside the PNP chief, PLTGEN Jose Melencio Corpuz Nartatez Jr., is a team of trusted senior officers who handle key areas of management and national operations.

The Deputy Chief for Administration, PLTGEN Bernard M. Banac, oversees personnel matters, logistics, and internal support services. His role is to make sure that all administrative functions of the organization run efficiently.

The Deputy Chief for Operations, PLTGEN Edgar Alan O. Okubo, oversees the implementation of police operations nationwide. He leads efforts in crime prevention, public safety, and special operations in coordination with regional and provincial units.

Completing the command group is PMGEN Neri Vincent D. Ignacio, the Chief of Directorial Staff, who assists in planning, policy development, and coordination among the PNP’s directorates.

Together, this leadership team supports the Philippine National Police in carrying out its mission to maintain peace, uphold the law, and protect the public. Their collective experience ensures that the PNP functions with discipline, transparency, and unity under the Chief’s guidance.

Conclusion

The leadership of PNP Chief PLTGEN Jose Melencio Corpuz Nartatez Jr. marks another important chapter in the Philippine National Police. His experience, discipline, and focus on transparency reflect his goal of building a more trusted and service-oriented police force. As he continues to lead, his dedication to peace, order, and public trust remains at the heart of his commitment to the Filipino people.

FAQs