Makati crime rate down 25%

The Makati Police Department (MPD) announced yesterday a 25 percent drop in the city’s crime rate for the first half of the year 2005.

Crime activity, a report to Mayor Jejomar Binay showed, went down to 235 incidents compared to 313 during the same period in 2004.

The MPD likewise announced an increase in crime solution efficiency to 94 percent compared to last year’s 92 percent.

In detail, indexed or high priority crimes, which include murder, homicide, physical injuries, robbery, theft and rape dropped from 193 to 163.

MPD chief Superintendent Jovito Gutierrez said cases of theft are particularly lower this year, going down to 68 this from 96 in 2004.

On the other hand, non-indexed crimes, or minor misdemeanors and offenses, decreased to 72 from last year’s 120.

Binay commended the MPD for their exceptional performance in crime prevention and peacekeeping in the city.

He said the city government will continue extending assistance to the MPD to enhance its capabilities in maintaining law and order.

This year alone, the city government allotted P27.85 million for MPD’s operating expenses as well as maintenance and purchase of supplies, which include arms and ammunition, bomb suits and two-way radios.

The city also provides other incentives like P2,500 to 3,000 monthly allowances for personnel, free oral care, and free access to English proficiency classes in the University of Makati.

The new Makati Police Headquarters being built near the Central Business District (CBD) will soon be operational, and is envisioned to increase the MPD’s effectiveness in protecting the city and its people against criminal and terrorist threats.

"The city government will continuously support the Makati police force in order to keep Makati’s public safe and secure," Binay said. – Michael Punongbayan