PNP vows to step up law enforcement drive in 2026 to sustain crime drop
Acting Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief, Police Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. (File photo: PNP)
Police Lt. Gen. General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr., acting chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP) ordered police commanders to continue the strategic deployment and other crime prevention measures as the police push to sustain the downward trend in crime incidents observed last year.
On Saturday, Jan. 3, the PNP reported a 12.4 percent decline on focus crimes from Jan. 1 to Dec. 31 last year, compared to the same period in 2024, or from 40,771 cases in 2024 to 35,717 in 2025.
Major reductions were seen in rape which went down by 22.68 percent, carnapping by 20.18 percent, murder by 17.80 percent, homicide by 14.98 percent, physical injury by 13.98 percent, robbery by 11.87 percent, and theft by 4.31 percent.
“The crime reduction is the result of a sustained and whole-of-government effort. We focused on intelligence-driven operations, intensified police visibility, and stronger coordination with local government units and communities,” said.
“In 2026, we will continue to strengthen our measures to ensure the safety of every Filipino,” he added.
He also highlighted the role of the public in the decline of crime incidents nationwide, “The cooperation of communities played a crucial part in achieving this decline.”
Nartatez said the PNP will continue to strengthen data-driven policing, preventive patrols, and faster response times as he emphasized that strict internal cleansing and enforcement of discipline will remain central to maintaining public trust.
“We will remain vigilant, proactive, and responsive. Public safety is not just a number but a lived reality for every Filipino,” Nartatez said.