The Philippine National Police (PNP) recorded a 36.12-percent decline in focus crimes nationwide in July compared to the same period last year, PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. announced Monday.
Speaking during a press briefing at Camp Crame, Nartatez said the country’s peace and order situation continues to improve, citing a significant reduction in major crimes.
“On the peace and order front, I am pleased to report that the country’s crime situation continues to improve,” Nartatez said during a press briefing at Camp Crame.
The PNP classifies focus crimes as eight major offenses against persons and property: murder, homicide, physical injury, rape, robbery, theft, motor vehicle carnapping, and motorcycle theft.
Among these, rape posted the sharpest decline, falling 56.93 percent, followed by motor vehicle carnapping at 46.15 percent and motorcycle theft at 42.59 percent.
Nartatez attributed the improvement to sustained police operations and stronger collaboration with local communities and partner agencies.
“These results reflect the continuing efforts of the PNP, together with our communities and partner agencies, to prevent crime, strengthen police visibility, and keep our neighborhoods safe,” Nartatez said.
“The Philippine National Police remains steadfast in protecting lives, preserving peace and order, and upholding the rule of law,” he added.
The PNP chief also reported gains in the police force’s nationwide campaigns against illegal drugs, wanted persons, loose firearms, illegal gambling and smuggling during the month of July.
Operations against wanted persons resulted in the arrest of 8,199 fugitives, including 2,352 individuals listed as most wanted.
In the campaign against loose firearms, authorities arrested 965 violators and recovered 3,724 firearms through confiscation, surrender, or seizure for violations of firearms laws. An additional 1,106 firearms were voluntarily turned over to the PNP for safekeeping.
The PNP also conducted 4,631 anti-illegal gambling operations, arresting 9,401 suspects and confiscating ₱3.2 millionin cash and gambling paraphernalia.
Meanwhile, police launched 2,927 anti-smuggling operations, resulting in the arrest of 656 individuals and the seizure of smuggled goods worth more than ₱628 million.