The Philippine National Police (PNP) recorded a 27.76 percent decrease in crime rate nationwide since January 1 this year but its chief, Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil, is not happy. 

Well, not exactly because he wants a higher crime reduction rate but because the efforts of his men on the ground are overshadowed by what he described as a disinformation drive that projects a breakdown of peace and order.

“Despite a 26.76% nationwide decrease in crime since January 1, 2025, concerns over safety remain prevalent, a trend that he attributed in part to the widespread dissemination of crime-related content on social media and other platforms,” said Marbil in a statement.

“While law enforcement agencies have made significant strides in crime prevention and resolution, he noted that the way incidents are reported and shared can sometimes create a heightened sense of insecurity,” he added. 

Such disinformation drives, according to Marbil, gives the impression that crime is worsening.

But he admitted that the disinformation drive is not unique to the Philippines but is a global issue: “Selective reporting often results in violent or unusual crimes receiving more attention than broader improvements in law and order.”

“Social media amplification further fuels this perception, as isolated incidents quickly gain widespread attention and appear more frequent than they truly are. The continuous news cycle also plays a role, as crime stories remain in circulation for extended periods, reinforcing public anxiety,” he stressed.

In order to address the issue, Marbil directed all police units to enhance their engagement with communities and increase awareness of their crime prevention and law enforcement efforts. 

He also encouraged police officers to proactively share positive developments—such as successful operations and public safety initiatives—alongside crime reports to provide a more comprehensive picture of the country’s security landscape.

“This is a reality we must acknowledge and address through proactive communication and responsible information-sharing.”

Marbil emphasized the need for stronger community engagement, fostering open dialogue between the police and the public to build trust and confidence in official data. 

“At the end of the day, public safety is not just about statistics—it’s about how people feel. By working together, we can ensure that perceptions are aligned with facts, fostering a greater sense of security and trust in our communities,” he said.