PNP: Focus crimes drop by 16%; Safer Cities cited

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police yesterday reported a nearly 16-percent decrease in focus crimes nationwide, with rape cases posting the steepest drop, as the PNP credited the Safer Cities initiative.

PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said comparative monitoring data showed that focus crimes dropped from more than 4,400 cases recorded from Feb. 22 to April 5 to below 3,800 from April 6 to May 18.

The monitoring period covered the implementation of the Safer Cities initiative led by Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla.

Nartatez said all categories of focus crimes decreased during the period, with rape cases dropping by 40 percent, car theft by 28 percent and physical injuries by nearly 26 percent.

He said cases of robbery, theft, homicide and murder also registered significant reductions.

“These are not just numbers. These represent crimes prevented, lives protected and communities made safer because of your commitment and dedication to duty,” Nartatez told police personnel.

He attributed the drop in crimes to intensified police visibility, preventive patrols and stronger coordination with local governments and communities.

Nartatez also cited ongoing operations against illegal drugs, smuggling and organized crime as part of the PNP’s continuing campaign.

Meanwhile, the PNP implemented leadership change in key operational posts, including the designation of Maj. Gen. Wilson Joseph Lopez as officer-in-charge of the Office of the Deputy Chief for Operations.

Nartatez said the leadership transition aims to strengthen command direction and improve operational responsiveness across the police organization.

He urged police personnel to sustain community engagement and maintain “professional, disciplined and people-centered policing” to preserve public trust.