PNP chief to cops: Solve more crimes this year

MANILA, Philippines - The leadership of the Philippine National Police on Wednesday called on its 150,000 strong members to pursue the solution of cases in 2014.

During the traditional New Year’s Call at the PNP national headquarters in Camp Crame, Quezon City, PNP chief Director General Alan Purisima cited challenges and situations that confronted the PNP in 2013 as well as the "many other victories we have made in pursuit of the PNP mission that keep us inspired as we continued to give all we can to serve and protect the nation."

"Let us vigorously pursue the investigation and solution of cases. I want to see higher conviction rates and more lawless elements behind bars. I expect all these, and more from you," Purisima told the police officials and personnel.

On top of his marching orders and strategic guidance to members of the Command Group, Directorial Staff, Regional Directors and Directors of National Support Units, Purisima  underscored the PNP's operational thrust on anti-criminality.

"With crime, insurgency and terrorism remaining as serious threats to the peace and security of communities, let us constantly review our Police Operational Procedures and further strengthen our defenses against lawless elements. At the same time, let us continue to harness more community support to the maintenance of peace and order in the streets," he said.

Purisima boasted the +50 percent Net Satisfaction Rating of the PNP in the latest Social Weather Stations Survey conducted in the 4th quarter of 2013.

He emphasized the importance of accurate crime reporting, particularly the Unit Crime Periodic Report submitted by PNP units to higher headquarters.

"I expect more reliable crime data from our police units so that we can better address criminality across the country because the success of our operations depends to a large extent on information we have," he added.