The country's crime rate has dropped to 8% within the past 10 months, the Philippine National Police (PNP) proudly announced on Thursday, November 9.
Citing the Crime Information Reporting and Analysis System (CIRAS), the PNP said that the country's index crime volume between January 1 and October 31, 2023, has declined to 8.24 percent, totaling 2,877 cases compared to the same period last year.
Focus crimes such as murder, robbery, theft, rape, physical injury, and carnapping shown an 8.18 percent drop, with 2,838 incidents in 2023.
"These promising outcomes stand as a clear testament to the tireless and coordinated efforts of the Philippine National Police. Contrary to popular narratives, the statistics undeniably demonstrate a noteworthy decline in the overall crime rate during the 10 months of 2023," PNP Chief PGen Benjamin Acorda Jr., said.
"This success reflects the PNP's commitment to 'Serbisyong Nagkakaisa' and our unwavering vow to decisively suppress criminal activities, ensuring the safety and security of our communities," he added.
PNP exemplified its campaign against carnapping, which involves a total of 482,963 operations, leading to the recovery of 973 vehicles, including 245 motor vehicles and 728 motorcycles, boasting an impressive recovery efficiency of 71.76%. Moreover, 972 suspects were arrested, and 542 cases have been filed in court.
Meanwhile, wanted persons who voluntary surrendered numbers to 341 individuals with 63,486 arrests.
PNP's campaign against loose firearms showed that 7,914 individuals were arrested, while 25,174 firearms were recovered, surrendered, or confiscated due to violations of Republic Act 10591.
Also, 15,191 firearms were voluntarily turned in for safekeeping, and 5,049 cases were filed in court.
Regarding the rising threat of cybercrime, the PNP's Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) has implemented various strategies such as 12 search warrant operations, 23 implementations of warrants to search, seize, and examine computer data, 238 servings of warrants of arrest, and 170 entrapment operations, which resulted in the arrest of 732 individuals and the rescue of 4,096 victims.
"Celebrating these accomplishments underscores the unwavering dedication of our gallant police officers to upholding peace and order, extending well before the 2023 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE). Our relentless efforts have created a safer environment for the Filipino community," the PNP Chief said.
“This consistent commitment to public safety remains unswayed by political shifts, reflecting the enduring role of the PNP in safeguarding our citizens. These achievements not only represent statistics but also symbolize the tangible benefits our work brings—enhanced security and greater peace of mind for all," he added.
