The Philippine National Police (PNP) recorded more crime during former President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration than President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s term, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said on Tuesday, October 29.
Remulla refuted Duterte’s claim after the former President expressed concern about the increasing crime rates under the Marcos administration, referring to reports of rising incidents of rape, murders, and robberies.
“With utmost respect for former president Duterte’s leadership, we believe that his perception of an escalating crime rate does not reflect the reality supported by concrete data,” Remulla said.
“The peace and order situation remains a top priority for the Marcos administration and we are committed to assuring the Filipino people that our nation is on a path toward greater stability and security,” he added.
In a separate statement, the PNP said the latest data indicate a substantial decline in crime rates, underscoring the effectiveness of our ongoing strategies and proactive measures.
The PNP reported a drop in index crimes from 217,830 to 83,059, marking a 61.87 percent decrease between July 1, 2022, and July 28, 2024, compared to the same period during Duterte’s first two years from 2016 to 2018.
The PNP highlighted that incidents of murder, homicide, physical injuries, and rape fell by 55.69 percent, while cases of robbery, theft, car theft, and other property-related crimes declined by 66.81 percent, going from 124,799 to 41,420 during the same periods.
Additionally, crime clearance efficiency improved by 27.13 percent, and the crime solution efficiency rate increased by 10.28 percent.
The PNP challenged Duterte’s assessment, emphasizing that the anti-illegal drugs campaign under President Marcos has achieved significant results, including the seizure of P35.6 billion worth of illegal drugs and the arrest of 122,309 drug suspects.
“These accomplishments highlight the effectiveness of our strategies and reinforce our dedication to combating the illegal drug trade,” it said.
“The PNP stands united with the nation in building safer and more secure communities. Through collaboration with all sectors of society, we are dedicated to fulfilling our mission to serve and protect,” it said. (TCSP)
