Manila: The Philippine National Police (PNP) has instructed regional and local units to maintain aggressive anti-criminality operations following a reduction in focus crimes by nearly 16% under the government's "Safer Cities" initiative.

According to Philippines News Agency, PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. emphasized that the 16% decline is a result of institutionalized reforms, data-driven deployments, and strict resource accountability. "This 16 percent drop is not a temporary dip but the direct result of institutionalized reforms, data-driven deployments, and strict resource accountability," Nartatez stated.

He further elaborated on the sustainability efforts by highlighting the maximization of logistics to ensure that funding directly supports police operations, thus maintaining a strong police presence where it's most needed. This approach aligns with directives from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla to enhance police visibility in communities.

The data indicates a fall in focus crime incidents from over 4,400 cases between February 22 and April 5, to less than 3,800 cases from April 6 to May 18. All eight focus crimes, including murder, homicide, physical injury, rape, robbery, theft, car theft, and motorcycle theft, have shown reductions during this period.

Significant decreases were observed in specific crime categories, with rape cases dropping by 40%, car theft by 28%, and physical injuries by 26%. Nartatez noted the continued coordination between police units, villages, and local government units under the "Safer Cities" initiative, which emphasizes faster response operations, increased patrol presence, and stronger community engagement to prevent street crimes and other public safety threats.