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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Accountability in anti-illegal drugs campaign is operational, not just policy—PNP

Accountability in anti-illegal drugs campaign is operational, not just policy—PNP

Published Feb 5, 2026 10:08 pm
The Philippine National Police (PNP) rejected the claims of an international rights group that domestic accountability for the previous administration’s drug war remains inadequate.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr. said that accountability within the police force is active and enforced contrary to the statement made by the Human Rights Watch (HRW) which criticized the Philippine government for supposedly failing to ensure sufficient domestic accountability in the drug war.
“We respect the views of international rights groups but we do not agree that accountability mechanisms in the PNP are inadequate. We have strengthened internal investigations and made sure that police officers who violate the law are held accountable,” said Nartatez.
“Accountability is not just a policy statement for us, it is operational. Death and even minor injuries in any police operations are automatically being investigated as part of the protocol,” he added.
Nartatez disputed the claims of the group that drug-related killings by police officers or unidentified assailants have continued under the Marcos administration.
“We acknowledge and respect any advocacy to uphold human rights and the rule of law, but it should be based on facts. What we can also assure is that discipline, professionalism and integrity are among the foundations of the continuing reforms in the PNP,” said Nartatez.
He also underscored the need to protect human rights while sustaining the fight against illegal drugs through intelligence-driven and strategic operations.
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