MANILA – The Philippine National Police (PNP) reported a 13.96 percent decrease in the nationwide crime rate over the past three months, citing improvements in law enforcement operations and community coordination.

Data released over the weekend showed that index crimes dropped from 6,961 cases recorded between July and August 25 to 5,989 cases from August 26 to October 30.

Similarly, focus crimes declined by 14.01 percent, from 6,931 cases to 5,960 within the same period. These include murder, homicide, rape, physical injury, carnapping of motorcycles and motor vehicles, and theft, according to the PNP.

“All these accomplishments are part of the PNP Focus Agenda — our roadmap that ensures we manage resources wisely, take care of our people, improve operations, uphold integrity, and work closely with the community,” said PNP acting chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr.

From August 26 to October 30, police conducted 9,061 anti-illegal drug operations, resulting in the arrest of 10,434 drug personalities, the neutralization of eight others, and the seizure of ₱1.91 billion worth of illegal drugs.

The PNP’s campaign against wanted persons led to over 11,500 arrests and surrenders, while more than 5,600 loose firearms were confiscated, surrendered, or placed under safekeeping.

Meanwhile, operations targeting illegal gambling and smuggling yielded ₱2.86 million worth of gambling paraphernalia and ₱337.8 million worth of smuggled goods, the PNP said.