Crime rate in the country from Jan. 1 to Sept. 15, this year has declined by 11,975 incidents compared to the same period last year, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said.
PNP chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda, Jr. said the figure represents a 7.874 percent drop in the crime rate, which he attributed to strategic police deployment, aggressive police operations and anti-crime measures.
“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,” said Acorda.
He said the aggressive police operations also reflected in the anti-illegal drugs gains with over P7.2 billion confiscated illegal drugs and the arrest of suspected illegal drugs personalities who are included in the list of 54,653 individuals.
The security preparations for major events since January this year, including the FIBA World Cup and opening of classes across the country have also contributed to the decline of crime rate.
Currently, the PNP has been intensifying security measures for the barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections on Oct. 30. Part of that measures are the implementation of the gun ban which started on Aug 28 and has so far arrested more than 200 violators.
“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,” said Acorda.