The crime rate in Metro Manila in February this year went down by 37 percent compared to the same period last year, the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) said on Sunday, March 2.

From 545 criminal incidents categorized under Eight Focus Crimes in February 2024, the cases of murder, frustrated murder, rape, physical injuries, robbery, theft and carnapping of cars and motorcycles went down to 343 last month, according to NCRPO director Brig. Gen. Anthony A. Aberin.

He attributed the reduction in crime to what he described as effectiveness of intelligence-driven operations, heightened police presence, and strengthened collaboration with communities.

“Despite this overall decline, the NCRPO remains vigilant in addressing emerging crime trends, including the enforcement of targeted strategies to further curb vehicle-related crimes,” said Aberin.

“By maintaining intensified police presence and intelligence-driven operations, the NCRPO ensures that Metro Manila remains on a steady path toward safety and security,” he added.

Among the most notable reductions, murder cases dropped by 41.94 percent, or from 31 to 18; and homicide by 25 percent, from 12 to nine cases.

Reports of physical injuries and rape cases both saw nearly 50 percent decreases, with physical injuries dropping from 57 to 29 cases and rape cases falling from 91 to 46 cases.

Meanwhile, robbery cases declined by 33.73 percent, from from 83 to 55, and theft cases fell by 33.62 percent, from 229 to 152.

On the other hand, carnapping cases in February also showed improvements, with motor vehicle carnapping dropping by 57.14 percent, or from seven to three cases, and motorcycle carnapping decreasing by 11.43 percent, or from 35 to 31 cases.

Aberin also disclosed that the crime solution efficiency rose by 8.68 percentage points, from 67.71 percent in February 2024 to 76.38 percent in February 2025.

The crime figures were based on verified records from the Crime Information, Reporting, and Analysis System (CIRAS) and acknowledged concerns about public perception, and Aberin said they are aware that this could clash with public perception.

"We understand that some may not immediately feel the impact of these improvements, but the numbers speak for themselves. This decline is a result of strengthened police visibility, intelligence-driven operations, and deepened community engagement," said Aberin.

"While challenges remain, the NCRPO remains committed to ensuring that every resident not only sees these improvements in data but also experiences them in their daily lives,” he added.