Manila crime rate drops by 50% this month

MANILA, Philippines - The crime rate in Manila in June has reportedly gone down by more than 50 percent from the same period last year, according to a study done by the Manila Police District (MPD) strategy and operations review unit.

The study was presented last week to MPD director Chief Superintendent Rolando Asuncion, the district’s command group and directorial staff.

According to the study, 611 crimes were reported this month compared to 1,546 cases in June 2013.

Officials considered the decrease significant because crime rates usually go up when classes open in June.

Asuncion’s 11 station commanders were also present during Thursday’s presentation at the MPD’s Rizal Hall.

According to the study, the total number of crimes reported for the first five months of the year reached 7,987 cases compared to 8,101 during the same period last year.

The review unit attributed the decrease to police visibility, especially foot patrol teams deployed near schools and places of convergence.