Antonio C. Torres facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Sir
Antonio C. Torres
KGCR
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Torres in 1939
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| Chief of Manila Police Department | |
| In office 1936–1945 |
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| Preceded by | Columbus E. Piatt |
| Succeeded by | Marcus E. Jones |
| Personal details | |
| Born |
Antonio C. Torres y Vergara
September 1, 1885 Manila, Captaincy General of the Philippines |
| Died | June 1, 1951 (aged 65) Philippines |
| Spouse | Corazón Veloso |
| Alma mater | Ateneo de Manila |
| Known for | First Chief of Manila Police Department Founder of the Knights of Rizal |
| Military service | |
| Branch/service | Philippine National Guard |
| Years of service | 1917-1921 |
| Rank |  Koronel (Colonel) |
Sir Antonio C. Torres (born Antonio Torres y Vergara; September 1, 1885 – June 1, 1951) was a very important Filipino leader. He was the first Filipino Chief of Police for the Manila Police Department, starting in 1936. He also founded a special group called the Order of the Knights of Rizal, where he was the first Supreme Commander. This group honors the national hero, Jose Rizal.
Contents
Who Was Antonio C. Torres?
His Early Life and Education
Growing Up in Manila
Antonio C. Torres was born in Manila on September 1, 1885. His parents were Florentino Torres and Sabina Vergara. His father, Florentino Torres, was a very respected lawyer. He became the first Filipino Attorney-General and a judge on the Supreme Court of the Philippines. His mother came from a well-known family in Manila.
Learning in the Philippines and USA
In 1901, Antonio Torres finished his Bachelor of Arts degree at Ateneo de Manila. The next year, in 1902, he traveled to the United States. There, he studied law and military science at Cornell University in New York. In 1903, he moved to the National University School of Law in Washington, D.C.. He graduated with a Bachelor of Laws degree in 1905, being one of the youngest in his class at just 20 years old. He returned to the Philippines that same year.
A Career in Public Service
Starting in Government
After returning from the United States in 1905, Antonio Torres began working for the government. He joined the Bureau of Customs, where he helped with statistics and later became an investigator.
In 1906, he started the first cadet training programs in high schools in Manila, especially at Liceo de Manila and Ateneo de Manila. Many young leaders, who later became important figures like Brigadier-General Guillermo B. Francisco, trained under him.
In 1909, Torres was chosen to be the Sergeant-at-Arms for the First Philippine Assembly. This meant he helped keep order during important meetings. He also became a Social Secretary to Sergio Osmeña, assisting him with official events.
In 1914, Torres visited the United States again and took part in military training at Fort Presidio in San Francisco. Later, in 1917, he joined the new Philippine National Guard and became a Lieutenant Colonel. He also traveled with Speaker Osmeña to Japan, China, and Korea, where he studied how police forces worked in those countries. He continued to study police systems in Europe and the U.S. in 1929.
Leading the Police Department
Antonio Torres served as a councilor in the Manila City Council before making history. On March 3, 1936, he became the first Filipino Chief of Police for the Manila Police Department. This was a very important role, as he was in charge of keeping peace and order in the capital city. President Manuel L. Quezon trusted him to lead the police force.
Around 1940-1941, President Quezon was working to make sure the government was fair and honest. Antonio Torres helped by reviewing the records of police officers to ensure everyone was doing their best work. In 1941, President Quezon also appointed him to the Traffic Commission.
Challenges During Wartime
When World War II began in 1941, Antonio Torres declared Manila an "open city." This meant the city would not be defended, hoping to protect its people and buildings from harm.
During the difficult time of the Japanese occupation, Antonio Torres continued his role as Chief of Police. He did this because leaders of the Commonwealth Government asked him to stay to help maintain peace and protect the lives and property of Manila's residents. It was a very challenging period.
After the war, there were questions about his role during the Japanese occupation. However, after a review, Antonio C. Torres was cleared of any wrongdoing in 1948. He had served as Assistant Chief for a short time after the war before stepping down in March 1945.
Founding the Knights of Rizal
Antonio C. Torres also had a deep respect for the Philippine national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal. On December 30, 1911, he gathered nine men to remember Rizal's sacrifice. This yearly event grew, and on November 16, 1916, Torres officially created the "Orden de Caballeros de Rizal," which means the Order of the Knights of Rizal. He was the first leader, or Supreme Commander, of this important organization. Its goal is to honor Rizal's ideals and promote good citizenship.
Awards and Recognition
Antonio C. Torres was recognized for his dedication and service:
The Philippines:
Supreme Commander and Knight of the Order of the Knights of Rizal.
