The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Wednesday reported a 12.66% decline in nationwide crime from January 1 to March 12, signaling progress in its ongoing crime prevention efforts.
PNP spokesperson Randulf Tuaño said a total of 6,377 focus crimes were recorded during the period, a decrease from 7,301 incidents logged in the same timeframe last year. Focus crimes include murder, homicide, rape, physical injury, carnapping, and theft.
“We are on the right direction as far as crime prevention is concerned,” Tuaño said during the Kapihan sa Manila Hotel forum.
Despite the improvement, Tuaño warned that crimes against property—particularly robbery and theft—may increase due to rising oil prices linked to tensions in the Middle East.
“Tinatanggap ng Philippine National Police na hindi lang ito mananatiling perception. Posible na tumaas yung ating crimes against property,” he noted.
To counter this potential surge, the PNP said it will intensify police visibility across the country to deter criminal activity and reassure the public.
“Number one natin is police visibility para maramdaman ng taumbayan na nandiyan talaga ang Philippine National Police,” he added.