Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla reported a significant drop in focus crimes, including rape, physical injuries, and robbery, from January 1 to June 6 this year, compared to the same period last year.

Focus crimes are considered serious offenses that occur frequently and directly impact public safety.

During the 1st Joint National Peace and Order Council and Regional Peace and Order Council (NPOC-RPOC) Meeting, Remulla said rape incidents went down by 31.85%, physical injuries by 30.21%, and robbery by 26.47%.

Remulla, who is also the NPOC Chairperson, highlighted that the campaign against loose firearms resulted in the confiscation of 12,891 illegal firearms and the arrest of 5,314 individuals, 4,096 of whom are now facing charges in court.

“Rest assured, this Council shall continue to explore new ways to protect our communities against crime and disorder. through our collective actions, we can fortify public safety and ensure that the rule of law prevails,” he said.

A total of 22,649 anti-illegal drug operations were also carried out, resulting in the arrest of 24,148 persons and the seizure of over 200,000 grams of illegal drugs worth 2.17 billion pesos. This massive drug haul disrupted the supply chain significantly.

Meanwhile, Remulla urged newly designated regional and local peace and order council chairpersons to strengthen good governance in the formulation and implementation of POC initiatives.

The NPOC also adopted a resolution commending the outgoing RPOC Chairpersons who served from 2022 to 2025 for their leadership and dedication.

Among those who will receive commendations are the late governors Roel Degamo of Negros Oriental and Carlos Padilla of Nueva Vizcaya, who served as RPOC Chairpersons.

Also present during the meeting were National Security Adviser Eduardo M. Ano, Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief Gen. Romeo S. Brawner Jr., PNP PLTGEN Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity Secretary Carlito G. Galvez Jr., and National Intelligence Coordinating Agency Director General Ricardo F. De Leon, among others. Department of Interior and Local Government