The Philippine National Police (PNP) has announced a significant nationwide decrease in criminal activity for the year 2025. According to official data released on January 3, 2026, the country saw a 12.40 percent reduction in crime incidents compared to the previous year.
Major Crime Categories Show Significant Drops
In a statement, the PNP revealed that a total of 35,717 crime incidents were recorded throughout 2025. This figure is notably lower than the 40,771 incidents tallied in 2024. The most substantial declines were observed in several major crime categories.
Rape cases saw the most dramatic decrease, falling by 22.68 percent. The number dropped from 9,910 cases in 2024 to 7,662 in 2025. Carnapping followed with a 20.18 percent reduction, declining from 332 to 265 incidents.
Murder cases decreased by 17.80 percent (from 4,151 to 3,412), while homicide incidents fell by 14.98 percent (from 1,268 to 1,078). Other notable declines included physical injury, down 13.98 percent (5,593 to 4,811), and robbery, down 11.87 percent (4,136 to 3,645). Theft recorded a 4.31 percent decrease, from 13,232 to 12,662 cases.
PNP Leadership Credits Sustained Government Effort
PNP acting chief, Police Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., expressed confidence that this downward trend in the crime rate would continue into 2026. He emphasized that public safety remains the agency's top priority.
"The crime reduction is the result of a sustained and whole-of-government effort," stated Nartatez. "We focused on intelligence-driven operations, intensified police visibility, and stronger coordination with local government units and communities."
Nartatez attributed the success to enhanced discipline, accountability, and professionalism within the police force. He also highlighted the critical role played by the public in crime prevention, noting that cooperation between citizens and law enforcement is key to effective results.
Future Focus: Data-Driven Policing and Community Trust
Looking ahead to 2026, Nartatez outlined the PNP's continued strategy. The force plans to strengthen data-driven policing, patrol operations, and faster response times to alarms. Maintaining strict internal cleansing and discipline will be central to upholding public trust.
"The true measure of safety is when people feel security in their daily lives -- on the streets, at work, and in their community," Nartatez explained. "We will remain vigilant, proactive, and responsive. Public safety is not just a number but a lived reality for every Filipino."
The PNP's report indicates a positive shift in the country's law enforcement landscape, achieved through combined efforts of the police, government, and an engaged citizenry.
