MARBIL
Marbil unveils recalibrated anti-drugs strategy
PHILIPPINE National Police chief General Rommel Francisco D. Marbil yesterday announced a recalibrated police strategy to combat illegal drug trafficking and abuse in the country with the PNP this time giving priority in targeting the ‘sources and supply chains’ of shabu and other prohibited substance rather than focusing on street-level pushers and users.
This approach, the top cop explained, is designed to be a more effective and less bloody campaign by putting a premium on human rights and addressing the drug problem at its very core.
Gen. Marbil characterized the drug problem as a complex issue, comparing it to the mythical Hydra, where cutting off one head causes more to grow in its place.
“Our previous strategies concentrated too much on cutting off the heads, but we need to target the body— the entire supply chain and the sources driving the drug trade,” he said.
The recalibrated strategy will involve intensified intelligence operations and stronger community engagement to identify and dismantle drug trafficking networks, the PNP chief said.
“We are now focusing on high-value drug personalities and the movements of illegal drugs across the country. These are the real targets—those who orchestrate the trade and profit from it, not the street-level pushers and users, who are often victims of circumstance,” he said.
The PNP chief underscored the importance of minimizing violence in this new approach.
“We aim to address the drug problem without resorting to bloodshed. By focusing on the real culprits and protecting the victims, we can make our communities safer while respecting human rights,” he said.
Gen. Marbil also said that their new strategy shift aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s vision for a safer and more secure Philippines and added that this recalibrated strategy is a crucial step toward achieving that objective.
“With this approach, we are not only saving lives but also working toward a better future for our nation. We are committed to addressing the drug issue with compassion, strategy, and adherence to the rule of law,” he said.
During the 123rd Police Service Anniversary, President Marcos Jr. commended Gen. Marbil and his men for making great strides in further reducing crime volume in the country while ensuring that its war on drugs will be ‘bloodless and humane.’
