CHR says PNP not fully cooperating in drug war deaths probe

On Monday, the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) stated that the Philippine National Police (PNP) has yet to fully cooperate with investigations into killings from the Duterte administration's war on drugs.

CHR Chairperson Richard Palpala-toc revealed during a hearing that at least 4,000 cases of deaths related to police operations and unidentified assailants are still under investigation.

Palpala-toc explained that lack of cooperation from the PNP is hindering the CHR's investigations, as they have been denied access to evidence by law enforcement agencies.

However, newly installed PNP Chief Police General Nicolas Torre expressed his commitment to cooperate with the CHR probe and directed all units involved in these cases to provide case folders.

The CHR aims to conclude its years-long investigation into extrajudicial killings (EJKs) under the Duterte administration's drug war by the end of 2025, according to Palpala-toc.

Manila 6th District Representative Benny Abante urged coordination between the two government bodies, emphasizing the need for closure in these cases after three years of investigation.