Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. on Monday pledged to institutionalize integrity-based reforms and sustain recent gains, as the organization faces renewed scrutiny over the adverse effects of the previous administration’s drug war.
The anti-drug campaign under former president Rodrigo Duterte drew widespread criticism over alleged human rights violations and thousands of deaths, leaving lasting reputational damage on the police force and triggering domestic and international investigations.
Amid ongoing discussions on how the drug war affected the PNP as an institution, Nartatez said the police organization remains committed to reforms anchored on accountability and professionalism.
“There have been significant improvements in terms of institutionalizing policies anchored on integrity and accountability as we aim to transform the PNP into a reliable police force that has the trust and respect of the Filipino people we vowed to serve and protect,” Nartatez said.
He emphasized that the PNP would continue efforts to reduce crime and sustain gains in the campaign against illegal drugs, but within the bounds of the law and established operational procedures.
Nartatez reminded officers that “accountability comes with the badge and the uniform,” assuring personnel who acted within legal parameters that the leadership would support them.
“The support system in the PNP for dedicated and hardworking personnel is strong. We have your back against any form of harassment in the performance of your duty,” he said.
“However, you must also understand that accountability is part of our uniform, and we will be tough against any form of abuses and actions that compromise the integrity of our organization,” he added.
Nartatez said institutional safeguards are in place to prevent abuses and ensure that orders are lawful, noting that operational procedures are clearly defined and reinforced through training and field briefings as part of broader reform efforts following the controversial drug war.
