Manila, Philippines: The Philippine National Police (PNP) will investigate allegations of a “quota” and “reward” system in its controversial anti-drug campaign, police chief Rommel Francisco Marbil said Monday.
The probe comes after Police Lieutenant Colonel Jovie Espenido claimed such a system existed during “Oplan Double Barrel,” the PNP’s anti-drug operation under former President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration.
“We take these allegations with the utmost gravity,” Marbil said in a statement, announcing a “thorough investigation” as part of an ongoing assessment by PNP oversight bodies.
A review panel led by the Office of the Deputy Chief PNP for Operations will scrutinize all aspects of the anti-drug campaign, including human rights concerns and operational protocols.
Marbil cited the need to ensure past operations adhered to legal and ethical standards, saying, “Our objective is to address any concerns, ensuring that the PNP’s anti-drug operations are conducted in a manner that upholds the rule of law and respects human dignity.”
The investigation’s findings will inform future anti-drug strategies, with a focus on transparency and accountability.
Duterte’s drug war, which began in 2016, faced international criticism for its alleged human rights abuses. Official figures show over 6,000 people killed in police operations, while rights groups claim a much higher death toll.
The PNP chief affirmed the police force’s commitment to fighting drugs through “just and humane” methods.
