DILG hails drop in crimes, billions worth of drugs seized

Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic C. Remulla on Friday reported a significant decline in focus crimes—rape, physical injuries, and robbery — from 1 January to 6 June this year compared to the same period in 2024.

Focus crimes are serious offenses that occur frequently and pose direct threats to public safety.

During the 1st Joint National Peace and Order Council and Regional Peace and Order Council (NPOC-RPOC) Meeting, Remulla said rape incidents dropped by 31.85 percent, physical injuries by 30.21 percent, and robbery by 26.47 percent.

Remulla, who chairs the NPOC, credited the improvement to intensified law enforcement, especially against illegal firearms and narcotics.

He said the government’s campaign against loose firearms has led to the confiscation of 12,891 illegal firearms and the arrest of 5,314 individuals, 4,096 of whom are now facing charges in court.

“Rest assured, this Council shall continue to explore new ways to protect our communities against crime and disorder. Through our collective actions, we can fortify public safety and ensure that the rule of law prevails,” he said.

In the same period, 22,649 anti-drug operations were conducted, resulting in the arrest of 24,148 individuals and the seizure of over 200,000 grams of illegal drugs valued at P2.17 billion. The massive haul has disrupted the illegal drug supply chain significantly.

Remulla also called on newly designated regional and local peace and order council chairpersons to promote good governance in developing and implementing peace and order initiatives.

During the meeting, the NPOC adopted a resolution commending outgoing RPOC chairpersons who served from 2022 to 2025 for their leadership and commitment. Among those posthumously honored were the late governors Roel Degamo of Negros Oriental and Carlos Padilla of Nueva Vizcaya.