The Police Regional Office in Central Luzon (PRO-3) announced a significant decline in criminal activity across the region for the year 2025. Officials attribute this positive trend to a marked improvement in the police force's ability to solve cases.
Crime Statistics Show Encouraging Decline
According to data released on Sunday, January 5, 2026, the total number of crimes recorded in Central Luzon fell to 35,706 in 2025 from 36,444 in the previous year. A closer look at the eight focus crimes, which include serious offenses like murder, robbery, rape, and theft, reveals an even steeper decline. These incidents dropped to 3,228 from 3,713.
Enhanced Police Operations Drive Results
The regional police linked the drop in crime directly to improved operational performance. The crime solution efficiency rate for focus crimes increased to 70.42 percent, up from 67.01 percent in 2024. PRO-3 stated that intensified campaigns against several key criminal areas were responsible for this success.
Notable operational achievements for 2025 include:
- 10,725 anti-illegal drugs operations leading to the arrest of 788 high-value individuals and 9,937 street-level suspects.
- Confiscation of illegal drugs with a total estimated value of P1.13 billion, including over 164 kilograms of shabu and 48 kilograms of dried marijuana.
- Arrests of 47 organized crime group members, with eight others surrendering.
- Successful manhunts resulting in the capture of 19 regional most wanted persons and numerous other wanted suspects.
- Confiscation of 1,470 loose firearms, with another 2,589 surrendered or placed under police custody.
A Safer Region Through Sustained Efforts
The PRO-3 report underscores a comprehensive approach to law enforcement, targeting the roots of criminal activity such as illegal drugs, gangs, and loose weapons. The tangible results in lower crime statistics and higher solution rates suggest that these sustained efforts are making Central Luzon safer for its residents. The police force indicates that these strategies will continue to be a priority in maintaining public security.
