Newly-installed Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) General Manager Nicolas Torre III will enjoy the full benefits of a retired four-star police general, said the Palace on Thursday.

In a press conference at the Malacañang, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro disclosed that she and Torre have discussed and settled the matter of his optional retirement and the promotion of his successor, Philippine National Police (PNP) Acting Chief Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., to a four-star ranking.

Nartatez assuming the four-star rank, solely held by the PNP chief, is no longer an issue, Castro said. She asserted that Torre was aware of this when he accepted his new position at the MMDA.

“The President appointed General Torre as the general manager of MMDA, he took his office, he is now actively performing his job… And for his optional retirement, he will receive full benefits and emoluments as a four-star general,” Castro told reporters.

On Wednesday, January 21, the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) released an order, dated January 19, formalizing Torre’s optional retirement from the police force. It took effect on December 26, 2025, the same day Torre was sworn in as MMDA general manager.

Under Republic Act 6975, optional retirement is only accorded upon the request of an officer and the NAPOLCOM’s approval. Only officers or non-officers who have rendered 20 years of satisfactory service are eligible.