Photo credit: Congress PH

In a strong response to former President Rodrigo Duterte's recent denial, the Philippine National Police (PNP) made it clear that many officers who served in the controversial war on drugs faced serious consequences, with little follow-up support. During a congressional Quad Comm hearing, Duterte rejected claims by PNP Chief Rommel Francisco Marbil, who had previously stated that many officers involved in the campaign felt neglected afterward.

PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo wasn’t about to let the matter rest, pointing to official records to back up Marbil’s statement. "The records will not lie," Fajardo asserted during a press briefing at Camp Crame. “We have over a thousand officers affected by the anti-drug campaign, with more than 300 killed and around 975 injured. On top of that, over 300 officers face legal cases, some were dismissed, and a number even convicted,” she detailed.

Fajardo emphasized that the data isn’t just an opinion. “This information comes directly from the Directorate for Personnel and Records Management, particularly regarding those killed or wounded in action. Cases were verified by the Directorate for Investigation and Detective Management. This isn’t just something the chief PNP said on a whim—it’s solid data,” she affirmed.

The tension between the PNP's current stance and Duterte’s denial highlights a complex aftermath of the drug war, as officers who risked their lives now face challenges without significant institutional support. The PNP’s records serve as a reminder of the real costs paid by those on the front lines—and the growing call for accountability and assistance.