PNP chief orders review of past drug campaign

MANILA, Philippines — Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil yesterday ordered a comprehensive review of the bloody war on drugs during the administration of former president Rodrigo Duterte.

In ordering the review, Marbil said he wanted to evaluate the effectiveness as well as identify both the strengths and weaknesses of Oplans Tokhang and Double Barrel, the code names for Duterte’s war on drugs.

The initiative, according to Marbil, aims to enhance the PNP’s recalibrated anti-drug campaign under the Marcos administration, focusing on dismantling drug supply chains instead of street-level pushers and users as well as putting emphasis on the preservation of human life.

“We need to take a hard look at our past and present strategies in the fight against illegal drugs. By understanding what worked and what did not, we can refine our approach and ensure a more effective and humane campaign moving forward,” he said.

Marbil formed a review panel headed by PNP deputy chief for operations Lt. Gen. Michael Dubria, with representatives from the quad staffs comprising operations, investigation, intelligence and police community relations as members.

To ensure a comprehensive and balanced evaluation, representatives from the Internal Affairs Service and the PNP Human Rights Office are also part of the review panel.

“We want to make sure that all perspectives are considered, especially those that relate to upholding human rights and maintaining strong community relations,” Marbil said.

The PNP will issue a memorandum after the panel submits its findings and recommendations.

The war on drugs was launched in 2016 and implemented by Duterte’s first PNP chief, Sen. Ronald dela Rosa, whom the International Criminal Court (ICC)’s Office of the Prosecutor tagged as one of the “suspects” in its ongoing drug war investigation.

Marbil said the review is about continuous improvement and accountability in law enforcement operations.

“The insights we gain from this review will directly inform our recalibrated strategy, ensuring that our anti-drug campaign is not only effective but also aligned with the principles of justice and human rights,” he said.