Caraga: Strategies focused on preparedness, prevention, and swift response have significantly contributed to the decline of index crimes in the Caraga Region, a police official said on Thursday.

According to Philippines News Agency, this comprehensive strategy is fully incorporated into the core program thrust of the Police Regional Office in Caraga (PRO-13), as stated by Maj. Jennifer Omiter, the unit's information chief, in a phone interview.

Data from PRO-13 indicated a notable 21.4 percent decrease in index crimes when comparing the period of May 19-25 with the preceding week of May 12-18. Only 11 incidents were recorded in the region during the May 19-25 period, down from 14 incidents in the previous week.

Among the index crimes, murder and theft showed the most significant reductions, with only one case recorded for each during the May 19-25 period, down from five incidents each in the previous week.

Omiter noted that consistent foot patrols and other police visibility operations have greatly strengthened the preparedness of police units and stations across the region, enabling them to effectively prevent crimes. She added that police response capabilities have also been substantially enhanced with the introduction of a new mobile application called AGAP Caraga, launched earlier this month.