PHILIPPINE National Police (PNP) Chief General Rommel Marbil has directed all police units to enhance their engagement with communities and increase awareness on crime prevention and law enforcement efforts to counter the widespread dissemination of crime-related content on social media and other platforms.
In a statement on Sunday, March 30, 2025, Marbil underscored the influence of media and social platforms on public perceptions of crime, emphasizing the importance of accurate and balanced reporting.
Marbil recognized that despite a 26.76 percent nationwide decrease in crime since January 1, 2025, concerns over safety remain prevalent, a trend that he attributed in part to the widespread dissemination of crime-related content on social media and other platforms.
He said that while law enforcement agencies have made significant strides in crime prevention and resolution, the way incidents are reported and shared can sometimes create a heightened sense of insecurity.
“Crime data shows that incidents have declined, yet the visibility of certain cases -- especially on social media -- can give the impression that crime is worsening,” said Marbil.
“This is a reality we must acknowledge and address through proactive communication and responsible information-sharing,” he added.
Marbil raised the importance of police efforts to proactively share positive developments such as successful operations and public safety initiatives, alongside crime reports to provide a more comprehensive picture of the country’s security landscape.
The top cop acknowledged the issue as a global matter, pointing out that selective reporting often results in violent or unusual crimes receiving more attention than broader improvements in law and order.
“Social media amplification further fuels this perception, as isolated incidents quickly gain widespread attention and appear more frequent than they truly are. The continuous news cycle also plays a role, as crime stories remain in circulation for extended periods, reinforcing public anxiety,” he said.
Marbil also reiterated the need for the media to provide proper context in crime reporting to ensure that news coverage reflects not only challenges but also progress in maintaining public safety.
He also called for increased efforts in media literacy education to help citizens critically assess news content and recognize misinformation.
Marbil also stressed the value of balanced reporting, encouraging media outlets to present a fair representation of both crime incidents and law enforcement successes to provide a more accurate picture of public safety.
He underscored the need for stronger community engagement, fostering open dialogue between the police and the public to build trust and confidence in official data.
“At the end of the day, public safety is not just about statistics -- it’s about how people feel,” said Marbil.
“By working together, we can ensure that perceptions are aligned with facts, fostering a greater sense of security and trust in our communities,” he added. (TPM/SunStar Philippines)