PNP: Rape, carjacking, robbery incidents down as PH crime volume drops

The Philippine National Police (PNP) reported Thursday significant decreases in rape, carjacking, and robbery incidents as the country's overall crime volume eased over a 12-month period.

"The impact of these [law enforcement] initiatives is evident in the reduction of overall crime volume by 14,666 from July 2023 to June 2024," PNP chief Police General Rommel Marbil said in a speech during the 123rd Police Service Anniversary ceremony at Camp Crame, Quezon City.

"Significant decreases in rape, carnapping, robbery, along with a 21.09% reduction in cybercrime incidents, highlight the effectiveness of our upgraded capabilities and efforts," he added.

Aside from these, Marbil said a total of P36.5 billion worth of illegal drugs have been seized from July 1, 2022 to July 31, 2024 including the P9.68-billion shabu haul in Alitagtag, Batangas, which authorities had said was "the largest haul in history and the highest recorded seized illegal drugs."

"As we look to the future, our commitment to the safety and well-being of our communities remains unfaltering," Marbil said.

"We will continue to strengthen our partnerships with the public, collaborate with other law enforcement agencies, and maintain the highest standards of transparency and accountability," he added.

According to Marbil, the PNP has provided frontline services to the community with the deployment of 85% of its personnel to active field duties and 15% to administrative functions.

He said this setup ensures a robust police visibility through both foot and mobile patrols, as well as prompt responses to calls for help.

"To do this, the National Headquarters personnel, PNP Police Security and Protection Group, and other units including mobile groups have been strategically downloaded to the National Capital Region Office," Marbil said.

"This rightsizing approach enhances police visibility and strengthens crime prevention by concentrating resources in high-priority areas," he added.

Also at the PNP anniversary rites on Thursday, President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. said police operations under his administration are bloodless and humane. — VDV, GMA Integrated News