Consistent decline in focus crimes and high trust and satisfaction ratings marked the first year of Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr. as chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP).

Nartatez was named as the country’s top cop in August last year and immediately emphasized the need for strategic and efficient management of the deployment of policemen on the ground.

He also emphasized the need to make the PNP’s presence felt in cyberspace as he vowed to invest more on modern technology and boost the operational capability of cybercops.

“I am grateful for the progress we have made, particularly in reducing crime, strengthening discipline, and improving public trust. But we will not be complacent. There is still much work to be done to earn the confidence of every Filipino,” Nartatez said.

Focus crimes fell by 36.12 percent in July 2026 compared with the same month last year. The PNP also reported intensified anti-drug and anti-firearms operations, along with thousands of arrests of wanted persons.

Public confidence likewise improved as an OCTA Research survey showed that 65 percent of Filipinos trusted the PNP while 63 percent were satisfied with its performance. Both figures were higher than those recorded in the previous survey.

“Our biggest accomplishment is strengthening police service through accountability, capability, and focused operations. Our unfinished task is to make these gains sustainable and ensure that every community feels safe and trusts its police,” Nartatez said.

Internal discipline was also a major part of his first year as more than 1,300 police personnel were dismissed for grave offenses while thousands of administrative cases were resolved.

More than 3,500 personnel were cleared or exonerated, underscoring the PNP leadership’s emphasis on accountability alongside due process.

The PNP marked Nartatez’ anniversary with a Thanksgiving Mass on Aug. 26 at St. Joseph Chapel in Camp Crame, Quezon City.

Police and non-uniformed personnel gathered to give thanks for the past year and reflect on the organization’s accomplishments, challenges, and milestones under Nartatez.

“I thank every police officer and non-uniformed personnel who remain committed to our mission. Let us continue to serve with integrity, professionalism, and compassion because public trust is earned through our actions every day,” Nartatez said.

He noted that the leadership’s next test will include sustaining the reduction in crime while addressing public concerns over police conduct and accountability.

Nartatez added that the PNP is expected to strengthen community engagement, particularly in areas where satisfaction with police services remains low.

Regional and local units must also sustain crime-reduction gains while ensuring that crime reporting remains accurate and transparent.