Manila: The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Wednesday expressed confidence in the success of the 'Safer Cities' initiative, citing stronger cooperation among police units, barangay officials, and local communities. 'The success of this program is anchored on efficient operations and effective cooperation and coordination with local government units down to the barangay level,' PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said in a statement. 'We are fully confident in the success of Safer Cities based on our experience and crime analysis,' he added.

According to Philippines News Agency, the 'Safer Cities' initiative was launched by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) on April 6. The campaign enforces local ordinances such as a 10 p.m. curfew for minors, a ban on public drinking, and restrictions on shirtless roaming and late-night videoke sessions. Police data showed that the number of violators dropped to 6,514 on April 19 from 13,139 on April 7. The PNP also recorded more than 119,000 violators in the first two weeks of implementation, reflecting intensified enforcement during the initial rollout.

DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla, during the inauguration of fire facilities and meetings with local officials in Catanduanes on Tuesday, said crime nationwide has declined by 50 percent under the 'Safer Cities' initiative. Although he did not provide detailed figures, Remulla noted that the improvement is evident not only in major cities but also in provinces and towns across the country.