The Philippine National Police reported a significant decline in focus crimes nationwide in January 2026, citing strengthened police presence and more focused community operations.
Data from the Crime Information, Reporting and Analysis System showed that from Jan. 1 to 31, 2026, authorities recorded 2,449 focus crimes across the country. This was 787 cases lower, or a 24.32% decrease, compared with 3,236 incidents during the same period in January 2025.
The figure was also lower than the 2,594 cases recorded in December 2025, according to the report.
Police Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., chief of the Philippine National Police, said the numbers indicate improving safety in communities nationwide.
“This is not an overnight result. It is the product of the continuous work of our police officers across the country,” Nartatez said.
The report showed declines across all categories of focus crimes. Murder cases dropped by 10.13%, homicide decreased by 20.19%, and physical injury cases fell by 30.81%.
Authorities also noted a sharp reduction in rape cases, which declined by nearly 61%, according to the data.
Incidents of theft also went down, along with cases of vehicle and motorcycle carnapping. Police officials said these reductions reflected improved visibility, quicker response times, and tighter monitoring of streets and communities.
Nartatez attributed the positive results to the implementation of Enhanced Managing Police Operations under the PNP Focused Agenda.
The national police said it will continue intensified patrols, stronger coordination with communities, and strict performance monitoring as part of its commitment to public safety.
The PNP reiterated its goal of providing faster, honest, and felt public service under its current operational agenda.
