Iloilo city: The Police Regional Office in Western Visayas (PRO-6) has urged the public to remain vigilant during the holiday season despite a decline in crime incidents in the region from January 1 to December 15 this year.

According to Philippines News Agency, data from PRO-6 indicated a reduction in total crime incidents, with cases decreasing to 7,560 from 8,186 in 2024, marking a 7.65 percent decline, equivalent to 626 fewer cases. Index crimes, which include serious offenses such as murder, homicide, physical injury, carnapping, robbery, theft, and rape, fell by 16.18 percent, dropping to 1,678 cases from 2,002 in the previous year.

Furthermore, focus crimes, which encompass index crimes along with cybercrime and kidnapping, decreased by 324 cases, from 1,994 in 2024 to 1,670 cases. Brig. Gen. Josefino Ligan, the PRO-6 director, attributed the reduced crime rate to the effectiveness of heightened police visibility, intelligence-driven operations, and strong coordination with local government units and community partners.

Ligan emphasized the importance of public cooperation, stating, "Public safety is a shared responsibility. We call on everyone to stay vigilant, follow the law, and work with the police so that we can all enjoy a peaceful, safe, and meaningful holiday season."

To ensure public safety, police presence has been intensified at transport terminals, commercial centers, churches, and other areas with high foot traffic as families celebrate Christmas and prepare for the New Year. Ligan assured that security operations would remain robust throughout the holidays to protect lives, maintain order, and ensure a peaceful celebration across Western Visayas.