Recorded crimes in the country from January to November 13 of this year dropped by 2.66 percent, the Philippine National Police (PNP) reported.
Citing the latest data, PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo said Camp Crame has so far recorded 34,050 index crimes, which are crimes against persons like murder, homicide, physical injury and rape; and crimes against property such as robbery, theft, carjacking, and cattle rustling.
“During the same period last year, January to November 13, we recorded 34,982 [index crimes]. So for this year, there is a decrease of 932 [cases], which translates to a 2.66 percent decrease,” Fajardo told reporters in an interview.
She attributed the decrease to intensified police operations and enhanced police presence, including in areas where people usually converge and also acknowledged the cooperation of the public.
“They are already aware of their personal security. This is a big factor why there is a decrease in [crime] incidents this year,” said Fajardo.
Fajardo added they are aiming to sustain the gains during the Christmas season. Crime incidence during the period usually rises largely due to pickpocketing and snatching.
“The only way we can sustain this good crime trend is for our communities to help us. They themselves will take care of their personal safety and security but on the part of the PNP, the stand of Chief PNP Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr. is to sustain the police visibility, particularly in the areas where crimes will likely happen,” Fajardo said in Filipino.
The PNP, she added expects increased economic activity, movement of people and even travel during the Christmas season.
“Our policemen will be out in the streets, including our personnel rendering administrative duty who will be required to also perform patrol duties, to make sure we will sustain this decrease in crime trend at least up to the end of the year,” she added.