PNP: Focus crime rate down nationwide by over 25% in May 2026

The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Monday reported a 25% decline in focus crimes in May 2026 compared to the same period last year.

At a press briefing, PNP chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said a total of 2,149 focus crime incidents have been recorded nationwide from May 1 to 30.

“This represents a decrease of 746 incidents or a 25% compared to 2,895 incidents recorded during the same period last year,” Nartatez said.

Focus crimes are offenses considered as serious in nature with sufficient frequency and regularity.

These include murder, homicide, physical injury, rape, robbery, theft, carnapping of motor vehicles, and carnapping of motorcycle.

According to Nartatez, crime incidents generally showed a downward trend during the first five months of 2026. May logged the lowest number of crimes.

Nartatez said focus crime incidents declined from 3,094 in January to 2,800 in February, increased to 3,200 in March, dropped again to 2,800 in April, and again fell to 2,149 in May.

"These figures indicate the continuing effectiveness of our intensified operations, enhanced visibility, patrol, and stronger collaboration with our communities and local government units," he said.

In its campaign against wanted persons, Nartatez authorities arrested 6,621 wanted individuals, including 2,065 listed as most wanted persons and 4,706 other wanted persons.

For anti-illegal drug operations, a total of 5,818 individuals were arrested in 5,184 operations nationwide. Police also seized illegal drugs worth over P614 million.

The anti-smuggling campaign led to 499 arrests and the confiscation of approximately P3.3 billion worth of smuggled and illicit goods after 2,453 operations.

In efforts against loose firearms, Nartatez said a total of 3,323 firearms were surrendered or confiscated, 1,027 people were arrested, while 518 firearms were “deposited for safekeeping.” — RSJ, GMA News