The Police Regional Office 7 (PRO-7) on Sunday revealed that crime rates in the Central Visayas region experienced a significant drop in February, continuing a downward trend from the previous month.

PRO-7 director Brig. Gen. Redrico Maranan disclosed that 179 crimes were recorded in February, a 41.50 percent decrease from the 306 incidents reported in the same month last year.

“This significant decline reflects the effectiveness of our intensified law enforcement efforts and the unwavering commitment of our personnel to ensuring the safety and security of our communities,” Maranan said.

The February figures follow a 66 percent reduction in crime in January, when 256 incidents were recorded, down from 767 in January 2024.

The PRO-7 also reported a 41.66 percent decrease in shooting incidents, with 21 cases in February compared to 36 in January.

The data is based on the Philippine National Police’s Crime Information Reporting and Analysis System.

Maranan attributed the decline to a combination of enhanced checkpoint operations, increased police visibility, active patrolling, and intensified law enforcement activities.

“We have implemented a proactive and strategic approach to crime prevention and suppression,” Maranan said. “Our personnel have been deployed to strategic locations to deter criminal activities and respond swiftly to any incidents.”

He added that the PRO-7 has developed a comprehensive peace and order operational framework focused on maintaining peace and order.

Maranan also said that the strategic approach prioritizes effective police presence, quick response time and operational countermeasures, with robust support from local communities.

“We recognize the importance of community involvement in our efforts to maintain peace and order,” Maranan said. “We have strengthened our partnerships with local government units, barangay officials and other stakeholders to ensure a collaborative approach to crime prevention.”

The PRO-7 has also intensified its campaign against illegal drugs, which Maranan said is a major factor in the reduction of crime.

“We have made significant strides in our fight against illegal drugs,” Maranan said. “Our operations have resulted in the arrest of numerous drug personalities and the confiscation of large quantities of illegal drugs.”

He added that the PRO-7 will continue to implement its strategic approach to crime prevention and suppression to ensure the safety and security of the Central Visayas region.