Crime rate declines this year

The Philippine National Police (PNP) under the Marcos administration announced on Saturday a significant drop in crime rate this year compared to the same period last year.

In a news forum in Quezon City, PNP Chief Police Gen. Benjamin Acorda reported that the overall crime rate has significantly decreased this year. From January 1 to September 15, 2023, the PNP recorded 11,975 fewer incidents compared to the same period last year, representing a 7.874 percent drop in crime rate.

Acorda said the campaign against illegal drugs has shown remarkable progress, noting that through 34,496 operations conducted, the PNP seized over P7.2 billion worth of illegal drugs since the beginning of this year.

“In our relentless pursuit of justice, we have made a significant stride in apprehending wanted persons, and, today, through our aggressive and honest law enforcement operations we have arrested a total of 54,653 individuals including 56 wanted persons with rewards; and, additionally, our campaign against loose firearms has resulted in the recovery and surrender of 34,404 firearms,” Acorda said in a statement during the forum.

“To ensure the safety and security of the public, we have intensified police presence and visibility in crime-prone areas and other public convergence points. I want to express my deepest appreciation to the dedicated men and women of the Philippine National Police for their unwavering commitment to duty.”

Their exceptional performance during the Philippines’ successful hosting of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 earned commendations and accolades from foreign guests and delegates, the PNP chief said.

In line with the police’s commitment to integrity and transparency, Acorda said that the PNP has received a commendable 85 percent trust and approval ratings from surveys among government agencies and placing it in the top three, next to the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and Department of Education (DepEd).

The police leadership firmly believes that the majority of more than 226,000 PNP personnel are honest and upright and are committed to their duties, Acorda said.

“However, we acknowledge that there are instances of misconduct and we are taking decisive actions to address them. Our commitment to cleansing our ranks remains steadfast. From January 1, 2022 to August 30, 2023, we have resolved 4,082 cases involving our personnel resulting in appropriate penalties and disciplinary actions,” he explained.

“As part of our integrity enhancement program, we have conducted nearly 116,000 random and mandatory drug tests. Any personnel found positive for drug use are swiftly dismissed from the police service.”

PNP’s future plans include actively preparing for the upcoming Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections, said the PNP chief, noting the police force is closely monitoring 27 areas of concern and taking proactive measures to ensure a peaceful and fair electoral process.

The police also value the vital role of the media and the public as watchdogs of truth and justice, he said as he emphasized the PNP’s commitment to cooperation, transparency, and accountability.

“Your opinions and constructive feedback are invaluable as we work together towards our shared goal of a safer and stronger Philippines,” Acorda said. “Let us join hands in promoting peace and order together for we can make a difference and a better future kung tayo po ay nagkakaisa.”