CEBU CITY – The Police Regional Office-Central Visayas (PRO-7) recorded a significant drop in the crime rate in Region 7.
Police Brig. Gen. Anthony Aberin, chief of PRO-7, said the notable reduction in eight focus crimes highlighted the effectiveness of crime prevention strategies in the region.
ABERIN (FB)
“This trend reflects a significant positive shift in crime patterns within our region. The observed reduction is a direct result of our collaborative efforts among law enforcement agencies to address crime comprehensively. Under my leadership, PRO-7 will continue these initiatives,” Aberin said.
The PRO-7 reported that from January to October this year, crime incidents decreased by 11.32 percent or 382 fewer compared to the same period last year.
Aberin said that focus crimes decreased from 3,376 in 2023 to 2,994 in 2024.
Monthly data showed that incidents started at 317 in January, peaked at 347 in March, and dropped to a low of 241 in October.
This trend indicates a decline in focus crimes – murder, homicide, physical injury (PI), rape, robbery, theft, and the carnapping of motor vehicles (MV) and motorcycles (MC).
Aberin stressed the importance of a proactive approach to securing public spaces.
He encouraged the community to remain alert and engaged, emphasizing that their involvement is essential for ensuring safety.
Aberin advocated for stronger collaboration among law enforcement agencies, pointing out that a unified effort will enhance crime prevention initiatives and create a safer environment for everyone.
Police Lt. Col. Gerard Ace Pelare, spokesperson of Aberin, added that increased police visibility has significantly contributed to the decrease of the eight focus crimes.
Aberin has directed city and provincial police directors to deploy more personnel on the streets to helper deter crimes.
Pelare said the PRO-7’s campaign against illegal drugs has been unrelenting.
Pelare disclosed that from January to Nov. 10, the PRO-7 seized P1.1-billion worth of illegal drugs and arrested at least 7,000 drug suspects.
“We can also attribute this continuous decline in the occurrence of crime to our aggressive anti-criminality campaign,” said Pelare.