PNP chief probes drug war's covert ops, rewards, extrajudicial killings; calls for accountability, justice, transparency, reform.

Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief General Rommel Francisco Marbil called on former PNP chiefs to clarify their roles during the Duterte administration's drug war.

Retired police official Royina Garma alleged that former President Rodrigo Duterte and high-ranking PNP officials sanctioned covert operations similar to Davao City's extrajudicial killings nationwide, revealing a payment and rewards system for killing drug suspects.

Marbil stated that the PNP will investigate these claims seriously to ensure accountability and transparency within its ranks, emphasizing a recalibrated anti-drug campaign focused on human rights.

Garma presented evidence during a House of Representatives hearing suggesting involvement or awareness of former PNP chiefs in covert operations, naming specific individuals like Colonel Edilberto Leonardo who served as commander of the Manila Police District Moriones Police Station in 2017.

Dela Rosa, Duterte's first PNP chief, denied Garma's allegation of a 'rewards system' and emphasized his commitment to human rights.

Leonardo has since resigned from his post as National Police Commission commissioner following the allegations.

Marbil reiterated the PNP's commitment to human rights and accountability while Senator Christopher Go highlighted that Duterte had no tolerance for senseless killings and respected the rule of law.