PNP: Crime rate down 26.76%

MANILA, Philippines — The crime volume nationwide dropped by nearly 27 percent, the Philippine National Police (PNP) reported yesterday.

Data released by the PNP showed that 3,528 focus crimes were recorded from Jan. 1 to Feb. 14.

The figure is lower by 26.76 percent compared to the 4,817 crimes logged during the same period in 2024.

The focus crimes, which the PNP is monitoring in gauging the peace and order situation, are theft, robbery, rape, murder, homicide, physical injury, car theft and motorcycle theft.

While some crimes have gained attention on social media platforms, PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil said crimes have decreased nationwide.

“These figures reflect our commitment to ensuring safer communities. The data speaks for itself – crime is going down. Our strategic efforts, public cooperation and the use of technology are making a real impact,” he said in a statement

Rape cases dropped by 50.6 percent from 1,261 to 623 this year.

Metro crimes down 21.71%

In Metro Manila, crimes dropped to 21.71 percent during the first 46 days of 2025, the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) reported on Tuesday.

From Jan. 1 to Feb. 15, the NCRPO recorded 667 focus crimes, down from 852 cases in the same period last year.

The steepest declines were posted in homicide, which dropped by 50 percent, from 24 to 12 cases, and in rape, which decreased by 41.57 percent, from 166 to 97 cases.

Physical injuries fell by 38 percent and murder cases by 34.62 percent.

Theft cases decreased by 23.08 percent.

Metro Manila police chief Brig. Gen. Anthony Aberin attributed the drop in index crimes to increased police visibility and patrols in crowded areas, business districts, alleys and secluded spots.