Manila: The index crimes dropped by 60.18 percent in Metro Manila during the Holy Week from April 14 to 20, compared to the same period in 2024, according to the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) on Monday.
According to Philippines News Agency, NCRPO chief, Maj. Gen. Anthony Aberin, announced that 45 focus crimes were recorded, a significant decrease from the 113 incidents logged in the same period last year. Data from NCRPO highlighted that the most significant decline was observed in murder cases, with only one incident reported, a reduction from eight cases in 2024.
The statistics further revealed a sharp decline in other crimes: rape incidents fell by 77.78 percent, dropping from 18 cases to 4; physical injuries decreased by 66.67 percent, from 12 cases to 4; theft saw a reduction of 56.36 percent, with cases decreasing from 55 to 24; and carnapping incidents declined by 75 percent, from 4 cases to just 1.
The NCRPO also reported a marked improvement in case resolution, achieving an efficiency rate of 88.89 percent, up from last year's 73.45 percent. Maj. Gen. Aberin emphasized, "NCRPO is just fulfilling our mandate of peace and security. We owe this to the public and we are duty-bound to serve and protect, with competence and integrity."
The Philippine National Police (PNP) noted that the observance of Semana Santa 2025 across the nation was largely peaceful, with no major incidents disrupting the religious tradition. PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil attributed this success to the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies, local government units, and public cooperation, all in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directives to ensure a safe Holy Week.
During the same period, the PNP recorded various incidents nationwide, including 64 cases of drowning, 15 fire incidents, 14 vehicular accidents, three cases of acts of lasciviousness, two cases of alarm and scandal, one theft, and one robbery. However, there was a notable 55.56 percent reduction in focus crimes nationwide during Holy Week.
Gen. Marbil extended his gratitude to the police personnel who remained on duty during the Holy Week, stating, "While the rest of the nation was on break, you were on duty. Because of your vigilance and presence, the entire observance of Holy Week was generally peaceful, with no major incidents recorded. That is a true testament to your commitment, professionalism, and sense of duty."
