The overall crime rate in the Bicol region dropped by 9.71 percent during the 1st quarter of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024 amid the all-out anti-criminality drive by the Police Regional Office (PRO)-5, the Journal Group learned.

According to PRO-5 director Brigadier General Andre P. Dizon, the massive reduction in crime rate from January 1 to March 31 is proof that a stronger and safer Bicol region is emerging, signaling a positive shift in public safety.

The official said that during the period, they recorded 5,020 crimes which is actually 540 cases lower compared to the 5,560 incidents documented in the 1st quarter of 2024.

He explained that the total crime volume consisting of both index and non-index crimes both saw a decrease this quarter.

Index crimes—those directly affecting personal security and property—dropped significantly, the official said.

During the 1st quarter of 2025, Brig. Gen. Dizon said that a total of 508 index crimes were recorded, compared to 646 cases last year, reflecting a 21.36 percent decline.

The breakdown of index crimes includes 39 cases of murder, 9 cases of homicide, 65 cases of physical injury, 111 cases of rape, 63 cases of robbery, 195 cases of theft, 1 case of carnapping of a motor vehicle, 25 cases of carnapping of motorcycles.

Additionally, 4 cases of special complex crimes were noted.

Non-index crimes, which include violations of special laws and other criminal offenses, were recorded at 1,377 cases.

This number marks a notable decline from the same period of the previous year, demonstrating the effectiveness of law enforcement initiatives in deterring crime.

Moreover, public safety incidents, particularly vehicular accidents, also saw a slight decline. A total of 3,118 vehicular incidents were recorded, compared to 3,120 last year.

These include 78 cases of reckless imprudence resulting in homicide, 1,033 cases of reckless imprudence resulting in physical injury and 2,007 cases of reckless imprudence resulting in damage to property.

Additionally, 13 cases of other quasi-offenses were documented, a reduction from 17 cases in the same period last year.

Brig. Gen. Dizon said that of the total crimes recorded, 4,632 cases or 92.27 percent were cleared, while 4,137 cases or 82.41 percent were solved.

This high percentage of crime clearance and solution reflects the PNP’s strengthened investigative capabilities and swift action in bringing perpetrators to justice.

Brig. Gen. Dizon said that moving forward, they are further intensifying their crime prevention strategies, increasing police visibility, and strengthening community relations to ensure a safer and more secure region.

This, he said, embraces bolstering intelligence-gathering efforts, conducting more frequent patrols and enhancing coordination with local government units and community organizations.

The official said that the implementation of technology-driven crime prevention measures, such as surveillance systems and crime mapping, will also play a crucial role in sustaining the declining trend in crime rates.

The Bicol police director reassured the public that the PRO-5 remains committed to its mandate of maintaining peace and order while upholding justice for all.

He also encouraged the citizenry to cooperate with law enforcement agencies by reporting suspicious activities and participating in community-based crime prevention programs.

“As another quarter begins, PNP Bicol remains steadfast in its mission to uphold the rule of law, ensuring the safety and security of the people in the region.

With the upcoming election season, law enforcement will be on high alert to prevent election-related violence and maintain order.

The PNP calls for vigilance and responsible civic engagement from the public, emphasizing that security is a shared responsibility.

By working together, authorities and citizens can build a community that is not only safe but also resilient against crime and disorder,” Brig. Gen. Dizon said.

AUTHOR PROFILE

Alfred P. Dalizon