PNP chief Nartatez challenges Kaufman to prove killings under Marcos

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MANILA, Philippines — Philippine National Police chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. challenged Rodrigo Duterte's lawyer Nicholas Kaufman to provide data supporting claims of continued vigilante killings under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

Speaking at a press briefing on Monday, March 2, Nartatez said the PNP is committed to investigating every death, whether related to illegal drugs or not, and regardless of whether cases remain active or unresolved.

"Give us the data and we will ensure that these vigilantes will be punished," Nartatez said, responding to Kaufman's remarks at the International Criminal Court.

Reference to Dahas Project

Nartatez was asked about the "Dahas Project" cited by Kaufman during Duterte's defense presentation at the ICC confirmation of charges hearing on February 26.

The Dahas Project is a database maintained by the University of the Philippines Third World Studies Center that tracks drug-related killings based on media reports, police disclosures and other publicly available sources. It has been cited by researchers and advocacy groups monitoring the anti-drug campaign.

During the ICC hearing, Kaufman referenced the project to argue that killings linked to anti-drug operations and vigilante-style attacks continued under the Marcos administration.

He urged prosecutors to examine those incidents, saying accountability should not be limited to Duterte's term.

Citing Dahas Project data, Kaufman said 342 killings were recorded during the first year of the Marcos administration, including 160 attributed to state agents.

Nartatez said the PNP is willing to review the findings as part of efforts to address allegations of state-sponsored killings.

"Kaya nga sinasabi ko lahat ay iniimbestigahan then right now, director for investigation, please get the data and look at the data starting July of 2022 to present para ma-cleanse natin," Nartatez said.

(That’s why I’m saying everything is being investigated. So right now, director for investigation, please get the data and review the data starting from July 2022 up to the present so that we can cleanse it.)

The Philippines withdrew from the ICC in 2019 under Duterte's administration, although the court has maintained jurisdiction over alleged crimes committed while the country was still a member.