MANILA, Philippines — Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief PGen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has ordered regional and local police commanders to step up nighttime police visibility in communities and public spaces to address lingering public safety concerns after dark.
The directive follows the release of the Gallup Law and Order Index, where the Philippines scored 84 out of 100 overall, placing the country on par with the United States and the United Kingdom.
While PNP leadership welcomed the high rating—which reflects a consistent decline in national crime rates—Nartatez pointed out a finding in the same survey showing that only 64 percent of Filipinos feel safe walking alone at home in their neighborhoods at night.
“The report is a reminder that maintaining peace and order is not measured by crime statistics alone. Our success must also be reflected in the confidence of every Filipino inside their home, in walking the streets and in moving around their communities without fear any time of the day,” Nartatez said.
To bridge the gap between strong institutional law enforcement ratings and personal security concerns, Nartatez instructed all regional directors and local chiefs of police to reassess current deployment strategies.
Commanders are required to ramp up mobile and foot patrols, specifically targeting crime-prone zones, commuter hubs, and areas heavily utilized by workers and students returning home late.
“We must bring police presence closer to the communities and ensure that no area is overlooked, particularly during hours when people are most vulnerable,” he stated.
In addition to heightened patrols, the PNP has called for active cooperation with local government units (LGUs).
Police commanders are tasked with assisting local officials in improving street lighting, expanding closed-circuit television (CCTV) coverage, resolving local security gaps, and establishing community-based crime prevention programs.
“We will continue to strengthen our presence, respond promptly to your concerns, and pursue those who threaten the peace and security of our communities,” Nartatez assured the public.