PNP sees lower crime incidence to continue amid quarantine

The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Wednesday said it sees that the lower crime incidence rate in the country will be sustained while community quarantines due to COVID-19 are in place.

Police Brigadier General Bernard Banac, spokesman of the PNP, said the crime incidence rate dropped by 55% during the community quarantine period compared to pre-quarantine days.

"Ang ating assessment ay patuloy na ganito ang trend habang nasa community quarantine tayo, dahil 'yung mga tao ay nasa kani-kanilang mga bahay tapos limited ang movement, 'yung opportunities to commit crime para sa mga criminal elements ay significantly reduced," he said at a virtual news forum.

However, he said criminal activities still occur and that the police cannot be complacent.

Asked about incidents of domestic violence and incestuous rape amid home confinement measures, Banac acknowledged that there may be unreported cases because of the quarantine.

He encouraged victims to come forward and file complaints, saying all police stations have women and children protection desks.

The National Capital Region, Bulacan, Laguna, Cavite, and Rizal are under a modified enhanced community quarantine until August 18. — Nicole-Anne C. Lagrimas/RSJ, GMA News