The Philippine National Police (PNP) has started recalibrating its strategies in the campaign against illegal drugs, which it said, will be anchored on respect for human rights.
PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil said the new strategy, dubbed as Anti-Illegal Drug Campaign Roadmap 2024-2028, is aimed at intensifying efforts against illegal drugs while ensuring a humane and rights-based approach.
“This roadmap draws on the hard-earned lessons from the past, acknowledging the sacrifices of thousands of police officers who bore the brunt of enforcement efforts, many of whom demonstrated unparalleled heroism in the line of duty,” said Marbil.
“This roadmap is a testament to our dedication to protecting lives and upholding human dignity. It honors the heroism of our police force and aims to foster a safer, drug-free Philippines,” he added.
Critics has repeatedly slammed the police organization for allowing itself to be used in the bloody drug war of the past administration. More than 6,000 people died in police operations while thousands more were killed by drug war-inspired vigilante groups.
The death toll includes children who were classified as collateral damage in the drug war.
Amid criticisms, Marbil said the PNP was also a casualty of the drug war as more than a thousand of its policemen either died or wounded in the drug war.
He also lamented the unfulfilled promise of taking care of cops as hundreds of policemen were allegedly left on their own in facing administrative and criminal charges.
In the new campaign against illegal drugs, Marbil emphasized that the roadmap reflects the administration’s commitment to a bloodless and community-oriented campaign.
He said the plan outlines a phased approach from laying the foundation with humane and rights-based operations, enhancement of enforcement capabilities through specialized training and international collaboration, robust community engagement, followed by scaling successful programs and, finally, a fully integrated law enforcement system designed to streamline national and local cooperation while maintaining public trust..
The plan is currently being developed by the PNP Drug Enforcement Group (DEG) under Police Brig. Gen. Eleazar Matta, under the direction and guidance of the concerned PNP Directorates.
"The mission is clear: to conduct intensified operations, ensure successful prosecution, and foster public awareness on the harmful effects of drugs in close partnership with our communities. This is not merely a policing effort but a holistic approach aimed at achieving a drug-free Philippines by 2030,” said Marbil.
“This campaign is not just about enforcement. It is about prevention, partnership, and creating a safer, healthier environment for all Filipinos. Together, we will end the scourge of illegal drugs through a united, compassionate, and rights-based approach,” he added.