Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief PGen. Rommel Francisco Marbil emphasized the need for stronger support and protection for law enforcement personnel, particularly those involved in the government's past anti-drug campaign, who continue to face challenges.
"Many officers endured not only physical harm but also found themselves entangled in legal and administrative challenges," Marbil mentioned on Sunday.
Marbil also pointed out that, from July 2016 to June 2022, 1,286 officers were affected while serving, with 312 killed and 974 injured, according to official PNP records.
In addition, he noted that administrative cases were prevalent, with 191 officers dismissed over the past six years, and 221 others facing dismissal for various reasons. More than 20 of these officers 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," said Marbil.
Noting former President Rodrigo Duterte's public pledge to support those enforcing the campaign, Marbil mentioned that there is no official record confirming that these commitments were fully implemented.
Marbil emphasized that the PNP should not bear sole responsibility for the overall outcomes of the anti-drug campaign, as its officers were equally impacted.
He also emphasized the need for reform, highlighting the goal of creating a safer country through effective crime-fighting that upholds human rights and dignity.
The PNP Chief further noted that, by reflecting on past experiences, the goal is to create a more balanced and humane approach to law enforcement.
