Manila: Lawmakers on Monday commended President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s decision to extend the term of Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil by four months as it is crucial to sustaining the government’s recalibrated anti-drug strategy.

According to Philippines News Agency, Surigao del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers, chair of the House Committee on Dangerous Drugs, said Marbil’s extended tenure would ensure continuity in the implementation of effective crime prevention strategies and a bloodless, humane, and intelligence-driven anti-drug campaign. ‘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 in a statement.

Barbers emphasized that Marbil’s continued leadership is crucial for keeping these necessary reforms on track. Under Marbil’s command, the PNP has moved away from aggressive tactics, focusing instead on ‘protecting lives and upholding human dignity.’ This shift in strategy has played a significant role in rebuilding public confidence in law enforcement.

Santa Rosa City Rep. Dan Fernandez, chair of the House Committee on Public Order and Safety, also praised Marbil’s crime prevention efforts, particularly his modernization initiatives. ‘The President’s decision to retain Gen. Marbil ensures that ongoing reforms within the PNP will not lose momentum,’ Fernandez said. He highlighted Marbil’s focus on proactive policing, technological integration, and rapid response strategies, which have resulted in a significant drop in crime rates.

Barbers and Fernandez’s positive remarks echo sentiments from top PNP officials, who also supported the President’s decision, emphasizing the importance of continuity as the country gears up for the 2025 midterm elections. A statement signed by senior PNP officials noted that the extension of Marbil’s term reflects President Marcos’ commitment to strengthening law enforcement, further reinforcing the dedication to serving and protecting the Filipino people with high professionalism.

Since taking office in April 2024, Marbil has implemented major reforms, including intensified anti-criminality operations, quicker response times, and improved police-community relations. He has also advocated for the use of artificial intelligence and interlinked CCTV systems to enhance crime detection. PNP officials praised Marbil’s steadfast commitment to the rule of law and his concern for the welfare of both police personnel and the communities they serve, describing his leadership as embodying the highest standards of public service.

During his third State of the Nation Address in July, President Marcos reiterated his administration’s commitment to a bloodless anti-drug campaign, emphasizing that extermination is not part of the government’s approach.