Police authorities in MIMAROPA region have reported a drop in crime rates, with total incidents falling by nearly a quarter in January 2025 compared to the previous year.

Official figures show criminal cases decreased from 383 to 292 during the first 26 days of January, showing a 23.76% reduction.

The decline includes a sharp fall in sexual offences, with rape cases dropping by 64.52% compared to early 2024, according to regional police data.

Police Brigadier General Roger Quesada, who took command of MIMAROPA PNP Headquarter in December 2023, attributed the improvement to increased police visibility and stronger community partnerships.

“This achievement stands as a powerful testament to the unwavering dedication of PRO MIMAROPA in safeguarding our communities,” he told officials during a meeting at regional headquarters.

The results drew praise from National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) Commissioner Josephus Angan during his visit to Calapan City on Saturday.

“I commend the men and women of PRO MIMAROPA for your dedicated and professional service to the people of this region,” Commissioner Angan said.

Annual figures also show promising trends, with reported rape cases falling from 520 in 2023 to 391 in 2024 – a reduction of nearly 25%.

MIMAROPA region has implemented several new security measures since late 2023.

Police officials said they plan to maintain these enhanced security measures to ensure the downward trend in crime continues throughout 2025.

NATIONWIDE DATA
The PNP has announced a 61.87% decrease in index crimes from July 2022 to July 2024, with total incidents falling from 217,830 to 83,059.

The data shows a notable reduction in specific crime categories, including a 55.69% decrease in crimes against persons and a 66.81% decline in property crimes.

On the other hand, crime clearance efficiency has increased by 27.13%, and crime solution efficiency has improved by 10.28%.

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has also confirmed a 3.29% decrease in total crime incidents during the first half of 2024.

In the National Capital Region, the crime rate has decreased by 10.62% in December 2024, with focus crimes dropping by 11.94%, according to the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO).

Despite these improvements, Manila remains ranked 42nd globally in crime index, topping Southeast Asian cities in a recent crowd-sourced survey.