Ex-PNP chief Cascolan dies; 59

Former PNP chief and Health Undersecretary Camilo Cascolan died aged 59 on Friday, Nov. 24, 2023. (Photo from Facebook of Jiro Tanalgo Cascolan)

MANILA, Philippines — Former Philippine National Police chief Gen. Camilo Pancratius Cascolan, one of the architects behind the police’s “Oplan Double Barrel,” the blueprint of the bloody war on illegal drugs waged by the Duterte administration, died on Friday. He was 59.

In a Facebook post, Cascolan’s son Jiro confirmed his father’s passing at 5:28 p.m. on Friday, surrounded by his family. The family did not disclose the cause of his death.

“My dad dedicated his life to serving and protecting our country as a man of service for 42 years. We will forever remember his unwavering dedication to his duty, his selflessness, and his love for his family,” Jiro said.

The PNP and the Department of Health where he both served offered condolences to Cascolan’s family.

READ: PNP: Cascolan died due to ‘lingering illness’

READ: Cascolan’s siblings see ‘extraordinary circumstances’ in ex-PNP chief’s death

The PNP described him as a “stalwart leader … [whose] dedication to upholding the principles of service, integrity and professionalism set a high standard for all members of the PNP.”