The crime rate in the Philippines from December 1 to 20 has dropped to 14.42%, considered to be lower than the record last year, Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr. said on Thursday, Dec. 22.

In a statement, Azurin said that from 10,643 cases in December 2021, crime reports decreased to 9,108 cases this year.

According to the PNP chief, there was a 29.79% decrease in eight focus crimes such as murder, homicide, physical injury, robbery, theft, vehicle theft, motorcycle theft, and rape — from 2,330 cases in 2021 to 1,636 cases in 2022.

Three most prevalent crimes were also mentioned: theft, rape, and physical injury.

“Among these eight focus crimes, the top three most prevalent crimes from December 1 to 20, 2022, were theft, rape, and physical injury with recorded cases of 609, 262, and 211 which is lower than the previous year, with 710, 567, and 331 cases respectively,” he added.

The decrease in numbers was due to maximum deployment of police officers, Azurin said.

He then assured the public of a safer and more peaceful country.

“Amid the great odds and overwhelming challenges, we assure the public that we will sustain the momentum and further improve our deliverables for the benefit of our main clientele, the Filipino people.”