(File photo)
MANILA – The Philippine National Police (PNP) reported a 10.59 percent drop in index crimes in the first five months of 2023.
In a statement Monday, Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr said 13,469 index crime incidents were recorded from January 1 to May 13, lower than the 15,064 committed during the same period last year.
The report said the monthly index crime rate decreased by 8.51 percent – from 13.87 in 2022 to 12.69 this year.
Focus crimes, which include murder, homicide, physical injury, robbery, theft, rape, and carnapping of motor vehicles, likewise decreased by 10.66 percent, from 14,990 cases in 2022 to 13,392 cases in 2023; while incidents of physical injury recorded the highest decrease of 25.68 percent, from 2,142 incidents in 2022 to 1,592 cases in 2023.
“This continuing decrease of incidents is attributed to the consistent implementation of numerous policies, such as intensified police visibility, intelligence-driven operations, community-based programs, strengthened partnerships with other agencies, and improved crime reporting and monitoring systems,” Acorda said.
Acorda said a similar trend was also noted in the anti-illegal drugs campaign, resulting in the confiscation of illegal drugs with an estimated worth of PHP5.68 billion and the arrest of 22,826 drug offenders in 17,202 operations.
Meanwhile, Acorda was honored at the "Pammadayaw" in Bacarra, Ilocos Norte also on Monday, hosted by the League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP).
In his message, the PNP chief called for "serbisyong nagkakaisa" (service with unity), or public service that is united in its commitment to provide equal access to justice and protection to all, regardless of social status or economic standing.
Acorda also expressed his commitment to lead the PNP with honor, integrity, and dedication, and to work towards a safer, more prosperous, and more united Philippines.
He highlighted the PNP's five-focused agenda towards aggressive and honest law enforcement operations, boosting personnel morale and welfare, integrity enhancement, strengthening capabilities in information and communication technology, and expanding engagement and interaction with citizens.
He called on the LMP to join the PNP in implementing crucial programs, stating that their efforts are essential to achieving the goal of a safer and more secure Philippines.
Acorda expressed his gratitude to Bacarra Mayor Nicomedes Dela Cruz Jr. and those who supported him throughout his career, including the Ilocos Norte Police Provincial Office personnel, local government units and non-government organizations.
Acorda was born in Ilocos Norte, where he finished his elementary and secondary studies. (PNA)
