Espenido addresses the assertion that the 'PNP is the largest organized crime group'

Col. Jovie Espenido, a key figure in the Duterte administration's anti-drug campaign, has explained his statement that the Philippine National Police (PNP) is the "largest organized crime group in the country." He clarified that his intention was merely to serve as a reminder to the police force. During the fifth House quad committee hearing on Thursday, Espenido also issued an apology to the PNP.

"I want to clarify my statement to the quad committee where I referred to the PNP as the largest crime syndicate in our country. I apologize if my words caused controversy due to misinterpretation," he said.

"My intention in testifying before Congress was not to shame the organization but to remind both officials and non-officials of their sworn duty to serve with dedication, dignity, and integrity," he explained.

 "My aim in testifying before Congress is not to embarrass the organization, but to remind everyone who serves, whether officers or non-officers, of their commitment to perform their duties with enthusiasm, honor, and integrity."

However, the PNP expressed disappointment over Espenido’s remarks made during the House hearing on August 28.

The PNP added, “It undermines the integrity and dedication of the many men and women in uniform who have committed themselves to serving and protecting the Filipino people.”

Espenido clarified that it was not his intention to tarnish the police organization’s integrity. 

“During my testimony at the hearing, I was specifically referring to members who abused their authority and influence in law enforcement, which contributed to the ongoing drug problem in the country. This not only impeded our nation’s progress but also eroded public trust in our uniformed officers,” he said.

Espenido served as the police chief of Albuera town in Leyte during the Duterte administration’s drug war. According to official government figures, the campaign resulted in at least 6,000 deaths, though human rights organizations and the International Criminal Court have estimated the toll to be between 12,000 and 30,000 from 2016 to 2019.

So far, only three police officers have been convicted of murder related to the drug war.