House leaders laud PBBM for extending PNP Chief Marbil’s term
SENIOR lawmakers on Monday welcomed President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s decision to extend the term of Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief General Rommel Francisco Marbil by four months or until June 2025, citing his leadership in implementing effective crime prevention strategies and a bloodless, humane, intelligence-driven anti-drug campaign.
Surigao del Norte 2nd District Rep. Robert Ace Barbers, chair of the House Committee on Dangerous Drugs, and Laguna Rep. Dan Fernandez, chair of the House Committee on Public Order and Safety, said Marbil’s extended tenure is crucial to sustaining the government’s recalibrated approach to tackling illegal drugs.
“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.
“His continued leadership will ensure that these much-needed reforms remain on track,” he added.
Barbers noted that under Marbil’s guidance, the PNP “has moved away from the aggressive tactics of the past, focusing instead on protecting lives and upholding human dignity—a recalibrated approach that has proven effective and has restored public trust in law enforcement.”
Fernandez commended Marbil’s overall approach to crime prevention, particularly his efforts to modernize law enforcement tactics.
“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,” Fernandez added.
Barbers and Fernandez echoed the sentiments of top PNP officials, who also lauded the President’s decision to extend Marbil’s term, emphasizing the need for continuity amid ongoing institutional reforms and preparations for the 2025 midterm elections.
A statement signed by several ranking PNP officials said the President’s move reflects his commitment to strengthening law enforcement, upholding discipline and integrity, and ensuring continuity in reforms ahead of the 2025 midterm elections.
“It further reinforces our dedication to serving and protecting the Filipino people with the highest standards of professionalism,” the statement read.
Since assuming the top PNP post in April 2024, Marbil has implemented major structural reforms, including intensified anti-criminality operations, quicker response times to emerging security concerns, and a strengthened relationship between law enforcement and local communities.
He also pushed for modern policing strategies, incorporating artificial intelligence and interlinked CCTV systems to enhance crime detection and prevention efforts nationwide.
“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,” the PNP officials added.
Barbers and Fernandez also commended NCRPO Chief Brigadier General Anthony Aberin and CIDG Chief Brigadier General Nicolas Torre III for their leadership in Metro Manila and national criminal investigations, respectively.
Aberin, who has led the NCRPO since November 2024, introduced the “AAA” policing strategy, which resulted in a 19.61% decrease in crimes against persons and property in January 2025 compared to the previous year.
His emphasis on strict police discipline, community relations, and accountability has been credited with strengthening public trust.
Meanwhile, Torre’s tenure at the CIDG has led to major breakthroughs in dismantling criminal syndicates.
Under his leadership, the CIDG arrested 1,159 suspects in November 2024 alone, including 881 fugitives on the country’s most wanted list.
“The commendable efforts of Generals Aberin and Torre have significantly contributed to our nation’s safety,” Barbers said. “Their dedication and effective strategies prove that the PNP is making real progress in keeping the public safe.”
Fernandez added: “With the leadership of Generals Aberin and Torre, our police force has demonstrated its capability to ensure public safety through effective, professional, and accountable law enforcement.”
With Marbil’s extended term, lawmakers and PNP officials expressed confidence that the ongoing reforms will be further solidified, particularly as the force prepares for the midterm elections in May 2025.
His leadership, along with the continued efforts of Aberin and Torre, is expected to sustain the downward trend in crime rates and ensure a more modern, effective, and community-oriented police force.
