Tacloban City — Crime incidents across the province of Leyte declined by 20 percent in 2025 compared to the previous year, according to the Leyte Police Provincial Office (LPPO).

LPPO provincial director Dionisio Apas Jr. attributed the significant drop in crime to the dedication and sustained efforts of all LPPO units.

“This achievement reflects our focused operations, proactive policing, and strong partnership with the community,” Apas said.

Data from the Crime Incident Reporting and Analysis System (CIRAS) showed that total crime incidents fell from 475 cases in 2024 to 378 cases in 2025, a reduction of 96 cases provincewide.

Among the eight focus crimes, robbery recorded the steepest decline, dropping from 50 to 27 cases, or a 46 percent decrease. Homicide cases decreased from 34 to 24, while murder incidents fell from 62 to 45, marking a 27 percent reduction.

Incidents of physical injury also declined from 68 to 50 cases, while rape cases dropped from 134 to 116. Theft likewise posted a downward trend, decreasing from 113 to 101 cases.

Apas said the reduction in crime was the result of effective collaboration among police units, local government units, and communities, supported by increased police visibility, targeted law enforcement operations, timely intelligence gathering, and sustained community engagement across Leyte’s cities and municipalities.

The LPPO urged the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities as police continue proactive law enforcement efforts throughout the province.