MANILA: Crime incidents in Metro Manila have decreased by 10.62 percent in December, according to a report from the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO). The report, presented by Acting Director Brig. Gen. Anthony Aberin, highlights a reduction in crime incidents from 10,323 in November to 9,227 in December, alongside a significant decline in eight focus crimes by 11.94 percent.

According to Philippines News Agency, the eight focus crimes include murder, homicide, physical injury, rape, theft, robbery, vehicle theft, and motorcycle theft. Aberin attributed these improvements to the effective implementation of crime prevention strategies and proactive measures by the NCRPO to address public safety concerns. Despite a slight drop in crime clearance efficiency from 99.56 percent in November to 98.86 percent in December, and a minor decrease in crime solution efficiency from 96.36 percent to 96.03 percent, the NCRPO maintained high efficiency in addressing crimes.

Aberin emphasized that the results underscore the NCRPO’s swift and effective approach to resolving cases and delivering justice, thereby solidifying public trust and confidence. In addition to the overall decrease in crime, the NCRPO intensified operations against wanted individuals, leading to 1,248 arrests, including 548 most wanted persons and 613 other wanted individuals.

The NCRPO also ramped up anti-illegal drug operations, seizing 9.12 kilograms of shabu and 5.86 kilograms of marijuana, with a total estimated street value of PHP63.84 million. A total of 761 anti-drug operations resulted in the arrest of 1,120 suspects. Additionally, police officers conducted 900 anti-illegal gambling operations, resulting in the arrest of 2,272 offenders and the seizure of PHP554,874 worth of gambling paraphernalia and proceeds.

As part of security measures ahead of the 2025 midterm elections, the NCRPO confiscated 212 unlicensed firearms and arrested 202 individuals in 198 operations. These efforts are part of broader initiatives to enhance public safety and maintain order in the region.