TARLAKENYO (December 2, 2024) — Central Luzon saw a significant reduction in crime, with incidents dropping by 66.36% in November, according to the Police Regional Office 3 (PRO-3).
PRO-3 Director Brig. Gen. Redrico Maranan reported that only 213 cases of eight focus crimes were recorded last month, compared to 321 in October. Focus crimes include murder, homicide, physical injury, rape, theft, robbery, and vehicle and motorcycle theft.
Maranan credited the decline to the region’s enhanced peace and order initiatives. These include increased police visibility, faster response times, and intensified campaigns against drug syndicates, criminal groups, and private armed organizations.
The implementation of 24/7 checkpoints and strategically placed police outposts across the region further curtailed criminal activity, depriving offenders of opportunities to act, Maranan said.
Meanwhile, the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) also reported a 17.52% drop in weekly crime incidents. From November 24 to 30, Metro Manila logged 1,991 crimes, down from 2,414 the previous week.
During the same period, the NCRPO arrested 337 wanted individuals, including 137 most-wanted suspects. In its intensified anti-illegal drug campaign, the NCRPO conducted 181 operations, resulting in the confiscation of PHP32.3 million worth of drugs, including 4.7 kg of shabu, 167.65 grams of marijuana, and 11.87 grams of kush.
The NCRPO also arrested 287 drug suspects, seized 25 unlicensed firearms, and apprehended 449 individuals in anti-illegal gambling operations, all part of preparations for the 2025 midterm elections.
