PNP to media: Ensure accurate, balanced crime reporting

MANILA, Philippines — Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil yesterday urged media outlets and social media users to ensure accurate and balanced crime reporting, emphasizing its role in shaping public perception of safety.

Despite a 26.76 percent nationwide decrease in crime since Jan. 1, concerns over public safety remain widespread.

Marbil attributed this in part to the amplification of crime-related content on social media and news platforms, which he said can create a heightened sense of insecurity.

“Crime data shows that incidents have declined, yet the visibility of certain cases, especially on social media, can give the impression that crime is worsening,” Marbil said.

“This is a reality we must acknowledge and address through proactive communication and responsible information-sharing,” he added.

To bridge this perception gap, Marbil directed all police units to increase community engagement and public awareness efforts.

He encouraged officers to share positive developments, such as successful operations and crime prevention initiatives, alongside crime reports to present a more comprehensive view of the country’s security landscape.

Fake news prevalent

Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Jil Bongalon said the significant crime drop, as reflected in official PNP data, is being drowned out by massive fake news.

He cited the year-on-year data that reflected a 7.31 percent decrease in focus crimes, from 41,717 cases in 2023 to 38,667 in 2024.

Bongalon called for stronger media literacy, especially among the youth, to help Filipinos discern credible information from viral disinformation. — Delon Porcalla