Last 30 January, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) presented five Chinese nationals suspected of engaging in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations in the country.

Also presented were supposed video footage from drones and military-grade, as well as high-resolution video cameras disguised to look like civilian security closed-circuit TVs (CCTVs). This proves how effective and efficient our various intelligence units are at present.

If I may suggest to the NBI, ISAFP and PNP DI, they should hire people who are competent enough, who, under the guise of their profession and affiliations, can closely monitor and provide after-activity reports aside from data gathering on certain groups and individuals that pose a threat to national security as well as peace and order within a particular territory or area of responsibility.

As I say, the key to a better, quiet and peaceful environment is intelligence. On the other hand, as the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) continues to adhere to its mandate to maintain peace and order in the country through its law enforcement, the total number of eight Focus Crimes or Index Crimes decreased by 19.61 percent from 1-31 January 2025 compared to the same period last year.

The continuous decline in index crime occurrences is seen as a result of maximized and consistent visibility efforts anchored on the goal of having a police force that can be truly seen, heard, and felt by the community. This can also be well attributed to the aggressive and relentless conduct of police operations against criminals, especially in the fight against illegal drugs, loose firearms, illegal gambling and wanted persons.

The timely arrest of these lawless elements contributes to crime reduction as it removes perpetrators from the streets, preventing them from victimizing helpless individuals. Furthermore, the strict implementation of local ordinances is also a major factor in this consistently reducing number of crimes.

Among the most significant reductions are rape cases, which dropped by 46.49 percent, while physical injuries fell by 37.14 percent. Homicide decreased by 28.57 percent, murder declined by 17.65 percent, and theft, the most prevalent among the eight Focus Crimes, saw a 23.05 percent reduction. These figures reflect NCRPO’s proactive crime prevention measures and sustained efforts to disrupt criminal activities before they occur.

P/Brig. Gen. Ponce Rogelio Piñones Jr., the Deputy Regional Director for Operations (DRDO), NCRPO, said that crime prevention remains the top priority of the Metro Manila police force, as he reminded NCRPO personnel to continue performing their job with competence, professionalism and credibility.

Meanwhile, the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Incorporated (FFCCCII), led by its president Dr. Cecilio K. Pedro, awarded outstanding achievers like GMA7 journalist Jessica Soho and National Artist Ricky Lee, respectively the granddaughter and son of immigrants from Guangdong and Fujian provinces. They were awarded for their contributions to Philippine development and for bringing honor to the Filipino-Chinese community in the Philippines.

Other FFCCCII awardees included 96-year-old former First Lady Imelda Romualdez Marcos (cited for her role in the historic 1975 opening of Philippines-China diplomatic relations, represented by daughter Senator Imee Marcos) and international furniture industrial designer Kenneth Cobonpue. The award ceremonies coincided with the Chinese New Year reception and the kick-off celebration of the 50th anniversary of Philippines-China diplomatic relations.