THE Philippine National Police (PNP) has recorded a 26.76 percent decline in the country's overall crime rate, attributed to the strengthened law enforcement operations and community engagement by the police, PNP chief General Rommel Marbil said on Wednesday, February 19, 2025.
In a statement, Marbil said from January 1 to February 14, 2025, recorded focus crimes went down to 3,528 cases from 4,817 during the same period in 2024.
He said that while some crimes have gained more visibility on social media, official records from all 17 police regional offices indicate a notable decline in the country’s overall crime rate.
Classified as focus crimes are murder, homicide, physical injury, rape, theft, robbery, vehicle theft, and motorcycle theft.
Marbil said rape cases drastically decreased by 50.6 percent, from 1,261 cases in early 2024 to 623 cases this year.
Year-on-year data also reflected a 7.31 percent decrease in focus crimes, with 41,717 incidents recorded in 2023 compared to 38,667 in 2024.
“These figures reflect our firm commitment to ensuring safer communities. The data speaks for itself—crime is going down. Our strategic efforts, public cooperation, and the use of technology are making a real impact,” said Marbil.
The top cop attributed these gains to sustained law enforcement efforts, including heightened police visibility in high-crime areas, intensified intelligence and investigative operations to dismantle criminal networks, and the expanded use of digital platforms and surveillance technologies to enhance crime detection and response.
He also recognized the vital role played by communities, as well as social media, in increasing public awareness of crime while serving as an essential tool for detection, prevention, and resolution.
“We are not just responding to crime—we are working proactively to prevent it. The PNP continues to evolve, using data-driven strategies and modern technology to stay ahead of criminals,” said Marbil.
“Crimes may seem more visible because they go viral on social media, but what’s crucial is that the same platforms help speed up investigations and bring criminals to justice. We encourage responsible reporting—use social media as a tool for safety, not panic,” he added.
Marbil reiterated the PNP’s commitment to President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.'s vision and goal for a safer and more secure Philippines, through proactive law enforcement and community engagement.
He urged citizens to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities, and support law enforcement efforts to maintain peace and order. (TPM/SunStar Philippines)