PNP: PH crime rate from Jan. 1-Feb. 14 down by 26%

The crime rate across the country dropped by 26.76% from January 1 to February 14, 2025 compared to the same period last year, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said on Wednesday. 

In a statement, the PNP said the cases of focus crimes—including theft, robbery, rape, murder, homicide, physical injury, and carnapping of motorcycles and motor vehicles—declined from 4,817 to 3,528.

Focus crimes are offenses considered as serious in nature with sufficient frequency and regularity. 

“Among these, rape recorded the most significant decline, plummeting by 50.6%—from 1,261 cases in early 2024 to 623 cases this year,” the PNP said.

“Year-on-year data also reflects a 7.31% decrease in focus crimes, with 41,717 incidents recorded in 2023 compared to 38,667 in 2024,” it added.

Meanwhile, the crime rate in Metro Manila went down by 21.71% from January 1 to February 15, 2025 compared to the same period last year, according to the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO).

“For the first 46 days of 2025, cases of 8 focus crimes—murder, homicide, physical injuries, rape, robbery, theft, and carnapping—dropped from 852 in 2024 to 667 in 2025, a reduction of 185 cases,” the NCRPO said in a statement on Tuesday.

PNP chief Police General Rommel Marbil attributed the decrease in crime rate to the heightened police visibility in high-crime areas, intelligence and investigative operations against criminal groups, as well as the use of digital platforms and surveillance technologies for crime detection and response.

“We are not just responding to crime—we are working proactively to prevent it. The PNP continues to evolve, using data-driven strategies and modern technology to stay ahead of criminals," he said.

“Crimes may seem more visible because they go viral on social media, but what’s crucial is that the same platforms help speed up investigations and bring criminals to justice. We encourage responsible reporting—use social media as a tool for safety, not panic," he added.

According to Marbil, the PNP is fully committed to supporting the Marcos administration’s push for improving public safety through proactive law enforcement and community engagement.

He encouraged the public to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities, and support law enforcement efforts to keep the peace and order.—Joviland Rita/AOL, GMA Integrated News