THE Philippine National Police (PNP) recorded a 22.53 percent decrease in the country’s crime rate during the first half of 2025.
In a statement, the PNP said the number of recorded focus crimes dropped from 18,280 between January and June 13, 2024, to 14,162 during the same period in 2025.
Focus crimes include murder, homicide, rape, physical injury, and theft of vehicles and other items.
Among the marching orders given by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. to newly appointed PNP chief General Nicolas Torre III was to prevent crime and ensure that the public feels safe.
Shortly after assuming leadership, Torre launched the “Cops on the Beat” program, which intensified foot patrols in communities nationwide. The initiative aims to revive the image of the approachable yet dependable neighborhood police officer—present, alert, and ready to respond.
In the second episode of the BBM Podcast, Marcos said Torre was his personal choice, motivated by the need for a police leader who ensures both safety and a sense of security among Filipinos.
“It’s not enough that people are safe. They must feel safe. Even with good statistics, if people don’t feel the presence of the police, it’s not enough. Nic Torre is effective at that. Naramdaman mo kaagad (You feel it immediately),” the President said.
“That’s the only way to regain trust, ‘yung alam ng tao na kahit anong mangyari, may pulis na nandiyan. Isang tawag lang, tatakbo na agad,” he added.
(That people know that no matter what happens, the police are there. One call and they’ll immediately respond.)
In the ongoing campaign against illegal drugs, Marcos directed the PNP to focus efforts on intercepting high-value drug shipments, dismantling major syndicates, and preventing the re-entry of illegal drugs into the streets. (TPM/SunStar Philippines)