PNP: More crimes during Duterte administration

MANILA, Philippines — Contrary to former president Rodrigo Duterte’s claim that crimes in the Marcos administration are on the rise, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said yesterday it was during his term that lawlessness was rampant.

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla also refuted Duterte’s claim.

“With utmost respect for former president Duterte’s leadership, we believe that his perception of an escalating crime rate does not reflect the reality supported by concrete data,” he said.

“The peace and order situation remains a top priority for the Marcos administration and we are committed to assuring the Filipino people that our nation is on a path toward greater stability and security,” he added.

In a statement, the Department of Justice said Duterte’s statement was “anecdotal and lacking empirical support.”

Citing its latest data, the PNP said index crimes from July 1, 2022 to July 28, 2024 dropped to 83,059 from 217,830 during the same period in the first two years of Duterte’s term from 2016 to 2018, or a decrease of 61.87 percent.

The PNP said cases of murder, homicide, physical injuries and rape decreased by 55.69 percent.

Similarly, cases of robbery, theft, car theft and other crimes against property registered a 66.81 percent decline, from 124,799 to 41,420 during the same comparative periods.

Crime clearance efficiency increased by 27.13 percent while the crime solution efficiency rate rose by 10.28 percent.

“Our latest data indicate a substantial decline in crime rates, underscoring the effectiveness of our ongoing strategies and proactive measures,” the PNP said in a statement.

During a Senate inquiry on Monday, Duterte lamented that crimes are on the rise under the Marcos administration. He cited reports of rape, people getting killed and robbed.

Duterte said a drug den was also discovered at the Malacañang complex.

The PNP disputed Duterte’s assessment, stressing the anti-illegal drugs campaign under President Maros has yielded remarkable results, such as the seizure of P35.6 billion worth of illegal drugs and arrest of 122,309 drug suspects.

“These accomplishments highlight the effectiveness of our strategies and reinforce our dedication to combating the illegal drug trade,” it said.

The PNP said police officers attained the accomplishments while upholding justice, accountability and respect for human life.

It vowed to continue a balanced approach to law enforcement that combines effective crime prevention with a strong commitment to protecting human rights, ensuring public safety and the dignity of every person is respected and upheld.

“The PNP stands united with the nation in building safer and more secure communities. Through collaboration with all sectors of society, we are dedicated to fulfilling our mission to serve and protect,” it said.

Benhur Abalos, who supervised the PNP as Marcos’ interior secretary for over two years, also disputed Duterte’s remarks, stressing the number of crimes has dropped under the current administration.

‘’I can say that our crime situation has significantly decreased under the Marcos administration. We have data to prove that,’’ Abalos said in a statement.

He pointed out the Marcos administration is focused on the rehabilitation aspect of the anti-drug campaign which has reduced the number of casualties in shootouts.

“We’ve focused on the rehabilitation of drug dependents that’s why we’re seeing fewer deaths in our campaign against illegal drugs,” he added. — Daphne Galvez