By Michelle Ducut
The Police Regional Office (PRO) 3 reported a significant 66.36% decrease in crimes across Central Luzon for November, citing enhanced police operations and preventive measures as key factors.
According to PRO-3 Director Brig. Gen. Redrico Maranan, the region recorded 213 focus crimes last month, a drop from 321 incidents reported in October. Focus crimes include murder, homicide, physical injury, rape, theft, robbery, vehicle theft, and motorcycle theft.
Maranan attributed the decline to the implementation of an improved peace and order framework, which emphasizes increased police visibility, swift response times, and targeted actions against drug groups, criminal gangs, and private armed groups. He highlighted the importance of 24/7 checkpoints and strategically placed police outposts in deterring criminal activities.
Meanwhile, the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) reported a 17.52% week-on-week reduction in crimes. The NCRPO logged 1,991 incidents from November 24 to 30, down from 2,414 the previous week.
The NCRPO also conducted intensified operations against wanted individuals, leading to the arrest of 337 persons, including 137 most wanted individuals and 200 others. Anti-illegal drug operations during the same period resulted in the confiscation of 4.7 kilograms of shabu, 167.65 grams of marijuana, and 11.87 grams of kush, with a combined street value of PHP32.3 million. A total of 287 suspects were apprehended in 181 drug-related operations.
Additionally, NCRPO officers conducted 187 anti-illegal gambling operations, arresting 449 offenders and seizing PHP114,000 worth of gambling paraphernalia and proceeds. The NCRPO also confiscated 25 unlicensed firearms as part of security preparations for the 2025 midterm elections.
Authorities emphasized that these operations are part of ongoing efforts to improve public safety and maintain peace and order in the region.