PNP spokesman claims human rights upheld in drug war

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) has put emphasis on ensuring that human rights are upheld in its campaign against illegal drugs.

PNP spokesman Senior Supt. Bernard Banac said there have been significant improvements in the government’s war on drugs where law enforcement operations are more transparent.

“There was a big difference as a result of recalibration of operations. We are putting emphasis on respect for human rights,” Banac told “The Chiefs” on Cignal TV’s One News on Wednesday.

At least 5,050 suspected drug pushers and users have been killed in alleged shootouts with lawmen since President Duterte took office in July 2016.

Among these measures is the purchase of body-worn cameras for their anti-narcotics operations.

Banac, however, admitted they are still in the process of equipping all their anti-drug units with body cameras.

The PNP has also trained its sights on “high-value targets” or personalities involved in the illegal drug trade instead of arresting street level pushers.

At least 2,843 personalities in narcotics are the subject of intensified and focused law enforcement and intelligence operations.

Among the so-called high-value targets are members of uniformed services, politicians and leaders of crime syndicates and drug traffickers.