THE Philippine National Police (PNP) has registered an 18.4 percent crime reduction in the entire country from January 12 to March 22 this year although PNP chief, General Rommel Francisco D. Marbil wants his men not to sleep on their laurels and ensure they will gain more progress in their all-out national crackdown against criminality.

The PNP chief also commended his men led by the 17 police regional office directors for their concerted efforts in reducing focus crimes over the past months.

Gen. Marbil said that the total number of Eight Focus Crimes dropped form 8,950 incidents between November 3, 2024 and January 11, 2025 to 7,301 incidents from January 12 to March 22 this year.

Significant reductions were observed in key crime categories including murder cases which declined from 1,535 to 1,243, homicide cases from 1,341 to 1,021, and physical injury cases from 1,002 to 663.

Likewise, crimes such as rape and theft also recorded notable decreases, indicating a positive trend in the country’s crime reduction efforts. However, crimes like carnapping remained relatively stable, with minimal fluctuations, he added.

The PNP chief said that notable crime reductions were particularly observed in Metro Manila, Calabarzon region and Central Visayas region which are under the National Capital Region Police Office, Police Regional Office 4-A and PRO3 respectively.

He likewise said that the Average Monthly Index Crime Rate (AMICR) also decreased from 2.57 in the earlier period to 2.10 in the latter period.

Among the Police Regional Offices, the PRO 13 in Caraga region recorded the highest decline in AMICR at 1.05, followed by PRO 4A (-0.76) and PRO 7 (-0.69).

Notably, only PRO-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao posted a slight increase in AMICR by 0.07.

Last week, Gen. Marbil presided over a high-level command conference at Camp Crame attended by members of the PNP Command Group, Directorial Staff, and Chiefs of National Support Units with all 17 Police Regional Directors o nationwide joining via zoom.

The PNP chief acknowledged the achievements of his men.

“I thank everyone for their collective effort in bringing down the crime rate. Let us not be swayed by any news that may try to discredit our work—instead, let our actions speak for themselves,” he said.

“This decline is a testament to our dedication, discipline, and commitment to public safety. By strengthening our crime prevention strategies, fostering community partnerships, and enhancing our operations, we will continue to make a meaningful impact in keeping our communities safe,” he added.

Gen. Marbil said the reduction in crime rates is in line with the President’s vision for Bagong Pilipinas which aims to ensure a much safer and more secure nation for every Filipino.

The PNP’s continued efforts in law enforcement and crime prevention reinforce the administration’s commitment to good governance, public safety, and national development, the PNP chief said.

He further emphasized the importance of professionalism and integrity within the organization, reminding all personnel to remain apolitical and non-partisan during the meeting.

“We must continue to uphold the dignity of our uniform and serve with integrity. Let us support our subordinates and guide them in their duties rather than reprimanding them publicly,” he said.

Other key topics discussed during the conference included security preparations for the upcoming 2025 National and Local Elections, crime environment assessment, and other pressing matters concerning peace and order across the country.

The PNP chief added that they remain committed to their mission of safeguarding the nation and ensuring public safety through proactive and effective law enforcement strategies.

AUTHOR PROFILE

Alfred P. Dalizon