Former senator Panfilo Lacson has raised concerns about the rewards system allegedly used during the Duterte administration’s war on drugs. He claims to have heard of the system but noted that no one has come forward to provide concrete testimony about it. Lacson, a former chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), spoke about the issue during a Pandesal Forum, where he was asked about retired police colonel Royina Garma’s testimony. Garma had testified before the House of Representatives’ quad committee regarding the formation of a national task force that would implement the “Davao template” nationwide.
Garma’s testimony revealed that cash rewards ranging from P20,000 to P1 million were allegedly given to police officers depending on the type of drug suspects they killed. These revelations were said to relate to a system supposedly initiated by former president Rodrigo Duterte. This system, according to Garma, involved financial incentives for officers who participated in killing drug suspects, a practice she described as being inherently dangerous due to its potential to motivate officers primarily through monetary gain.
In reaction to these claims, Lacson advised that the PNP’s Internal Affairs Service should be made independent and strengthened to better perform its duties. He pointed out the need for a more robust structure, clearer mandate, and sufficient funding to ensure the service can operate effectively and without undue influence.
Lacson’s comments come amid ongoing discussions about the legitimacy and moral implications of the drug war tactics employed during Duterte’s presidency. The alleged rewards system has been criticized for potentially encouraging extrajudicial killings, with law enforcement officers reportedly competing to increase their “kill” counts to receive monetary compensation.
Despite the lack of direct testimony confirming the existence of this rewards system, Lacson emphasized the importance of addressing these concerns seriously. He noted that, during his time, reward systems existed primarily as a means of recognizing achievements or promotions within the force, not as financial incentives tied to the number of suspects killed.
The former senator’s statements have reignited debate over the ethical dimensions of the drug war and its impact on law enforcement culture in the Philippines. The issue remains a contentious topic in the country’s political and social discourse, with various human rights groups calling for thorough investigations into the alleged extrajudicial practices.
Garma’s testimony further elaborated on the operational mechanics of the task force, mentioning that retired police officer Edilberto Leonardo was suggested as a suitable leader for the initiative. Leonardo was described as someone who had the experience and connections necessary to implement the “Davao template” at a national level. Garma claimed the system was used to provide bonuses for officers involved in planning operations, executing suspects, and reimbursing operational expenses.
