The Philippine National Police (PNP) has reported an all-time low in the number of crimes in the Philippines with the implementation of the community quarantine.
The PNP has cited the low incidence of eight focus crimes in the country such as rape that has dropped by 49 percent, and murder and homicide that have dropped by 30 percent. 7,000 crimes have been reported in the country since March 17.
The figure is lower by 57 percent compared to the 13,000 reported crimes before the declaration of the community quarantine.
“The quarantine did not deter the PNP from pursuing criminals as we conducted numerous operations all over the country. This sends a clear message to the public that there is no let-up in our campaign against lawless elements. Then and now, we will go after them.” PNP Chief Archie Gamboa has stated.
PNP Spokesperson Bernard Banac has ensured that despite several crimes reported under the General Community Quarantine, the PNP is still in control of the situation.
Meanwhile, the PNP Chief has given a directive that all women and children protection help desks must always be open after the incidence of violence against women and children has risen.
PNP Spokesperson Banac has raised the possibility of the police visiting victims’ houses to provide help and protection. The PNP will also coordinate with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) on the matter.
The PNP has assessed that the frequent causes of the abuse are problems at home and in the family. Coordination is being made with the religious sector to lead in the counseling of the families during this time of pandemic. – Report from Bea Bernardo
