By Filane Mikee Cervantes
MANILA – Lawmakers on Monday commended President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s decision to extend the term of Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil by four months as it is crucial to sustaining the government’s recalibrated anti-drug strategy.
Surigao del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers, chair of the House Committee on Dangerous Drugs, said Marbil’s extended tenure would ensure continuity in the implementation of effective crime prevention strategies and a bloodless, humane and intelligence-driven anti-drug campaign.
“Gen. Marbil has successfully shifted our anti-drug operations toward a community-driven and intelligence-based approach, ensuring that law enforcement is effective without the unnecessary bloodshed we saw during the previous administration,” Barbers said in a statement.
“His continued leadership will ensure that these much-needed reforms remain on track.”
Barbers said the PNP under Marbil has moved away from aggressive tactics and focused on “protecting lives and upholding human dignity.”
He said this approach has helped rebuild public confidence in law enforcement.
Santa Rosa City Rep. Dan Fernandez, chair of the House Committee on Public Order and Safety, praised Marbil’s crime prevention efforts, particularly his modernization initiatives.
“The President’s decision to retain Gen. Marbil ensures that ongoing reforms within the PNP will not lose momentum,” Fernandez said. “His focus on proactive policing, technological integration, and rapid response strategies has resulted in a significant drop in crime rates.”
Barbers and Fernandez echoed sentiments from top PNP officials, who also backed the President’s decision, citing the need for continuity as the country prepares for the 2025 midterm elections.
A statement signed by senior PNP officials said the extension reflects Marcos’ commitment to strengthening law enforcement.
“It further reinforces our dedication to serving and protecting the Filipino people with the highest standards of professionalism,” the statement said.
Marbil, who took office in April 2024, has implemented major reforms, including intensified anti-criminality operations, faster response times, and strengthened police-community relations, the officials said.
He also pushed for the use of artificial intelligence and interlinked CCTV systems to enhance crime detection.
“His (Marbil’s) steadfast commitment to the rule of law, coupled with his genuine concern for the welfare of both police personnel and the communities they serve, embodies the highest standards of leadership in public service,” PNP officials said.
During his third State of the Nation Address in July, Marcos reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to a bloodless anti-drug campaign, emphasizing that extermination is not part of the government’s approach. (PNA)
