13/11/2024
PNP Chief Calls for Stronger Support for Officers Affected by Anti-Drug Campaign
Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Gen. Rommel Francisco D. Marbil spoke on Sunday about the challenges faced by police officers involved in the government's previous anti-drug campaign, underscoring the need for stronger support and protection for law enforcement personnel in the field.
Citing official PNP data from July 2016 to June 2022, CPNP Marbil shared that 1,286 officers were affected in the line of duty—312 lost their lives, and 974 were injured. He acknowledged that these officers carried out their responsibilities with dedication and often faced considerable risks to ensure public safety.
"Many officers endured not only physical harm but also found themselves entangled in legal and administrative challenges," Marbil noted, referring to the 214 officers who faced 352 criminal cases during this period. He emphasized that while the promise of support was made, many officers continued to face consequences largely on their own.
Additionally, Marbil said that administrative cases were prevalent, with 191 officers dismissed over the six-year period, and a total of 221 facing dismissal for various reasons. Over 20 of these individuals are currently in detention.
"The numbers remind us that the impact of the anti-drug campaign was deeply felt by our police force as well," Marbil remarked, noting that former President Rodrigo Duterte had publicly committed to supporting those enforcing the campaign. However, he said there is no official record that these commitments were fully realized.
Marbil stressed that the PNP should not bear sole responsibility for the broader outcomes of the anti-drug campaign, as its officers were equally affected. “The data show that while civilians were affected, many officers also paid the price in various ways," he said.
In looking forward, the PNP Chief emphasized the importance of reform, saying, “Our mission is to secure a safer Philippines through effective crime-fighting that respects human rights and dignity. Learning from these experiences, we aim to build a more balanced and humane approach to law enforcement.”
