TACLOBAN CITY – PNP Chief General Nicolas Torre III led the inauguration and turnover of the new Samar Police Provincial Office (SPPO) in Barangay Pupua, Catbalogan City, Monday (June 30).
The PHP29.1-million building was constructed on a 2-hectare lot donated by the Provincial Government of Samar under the General Appropriations Act of 2023. Its groundbreaking was held on April 8, 2024, wherein the construction was managed by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Samar 2nd District Engineering Office under JFR Construction Inc.
Governor Sharee Ann Tan said the facility reflects their dedication to providing law enforcement officers with a modern workspace to effectively perform their duties in public safety. The relocation also provides ample space for all essential facilities and amenities, supporting additional units, and offering a suitable venue for training compared to the old camp in the 8th Infantry Division in Brgy. Maulong, also in Catbalogan.
General Torre thanked Gov. Tan for the support she has given to the PNP, including him, his predecessors, and the future directors in Samar PPO. “Samar is one of the most enjoyable assignments that I’ve had. I grew up here as an officer. Nakita ko ang urban and rural policing at nadaanan ko din ang pagkatakot-takot na politika,” Torre shared.
He also recalled being tagged as persona non grata in Calbayog City, Gandara, San Jorge, Matuguinao, and Sta. Margarita, but were later lifted after the change of administration. “At the end of the day, we just have to do good, we just have to do what is right, and of course, we just have to provide the service that the Samareños really deserve,” he added.
Torre served as Samar Police Provincial Office’s provincial director from 2017 to 2019 before he became the chief regional operations division in the Police Regional Office 8. (By Marie Tonette Marticio / EV Mail JUNE 30-JULY 6, 2025 issue)
