Focus crimes have dropped by 24 percent compared to the same period last year, signaling improved public safety and more effective crime prevention, Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. said Friday.

Nartatez said the decline reflects the impact of intensified police operations and community-based strategies aimed at curbing criminal activity nationwide.

He attributed the improvement to sustained operations targeting wanted persons, illegal drugs, smuggling and loose firearms, as well as closer coordination with communities.

He reiterated the PNP’s zero-tolerance policy against misconduct, stressing that accountability remains non-negotiable.

Since assuming office, Nartatez said the PNP has resolved 770 administrative cases to ensure penalties are commensurate with the gravity of violations.

Of these, 278 personnel were dismissed, 44 demoted and 163 suspended, while others faced restrictions affecting 504 personnel and withholding of privileges involving 266.