INTERIOR Secretary Jonvic Remulla yesterday said the PNP has made “significant progress” in making the country a safer place, noting a reduction in index crimes or crimes against persons and property.
In a message read by National Police Commission Vice Chairman Ricardo Bernabe during the celebration of the PNP’s 34th foundation anniversary at Camp Crame, Remulla commended policemen “for going above and beyond in carrying out your duties as members of the police force.”
“Today, the threats we face are more complex, with a greater array of criminal activities and harmful elements that threaten the safety and security of our citizens. This highlights the crucial role of the PNP in keeping citizens safe and free from harm,” said Remulla.
“It is reassuring to see that the PNP is making significant progress in creating a safer, crime-free environment for our country,” he added.
Through “diligent law enforcement, heightened police visibility and collaborative efforts with various sectors,” Remulla said index crime volume went down to 34,841 last year, compared to 38,404 the previous year.
“Likewise, through constant monitoring, detection, protection, and mitigation of cybersecurity issues, cybercrimes also dropped by 31.8 percent, with 14,529 reports in 2024 as compared to 21,300 in 2023,” Remulla said.
Remulla thanked all the members of the police force for their contributions, also citing the PNP’s relentless internal cleansing efforts in “resolving cases involving rogue cops to maintain our organization’s integrity and the people’s trust.”
HEAVIER TASKS
Remulla noted the PNP is facing “heavier tasks” this year, requiring the organization’s “greater commitment and stronger resolve.”
He called on the PNP to ensure the orderly conduct of the 2025 midterm elections and diligently monitor areas in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region and Muslim Mindanao or BARMM as it conducts its first autonomous elections.
Remulla said President Marcos Jr. “fully supports the whole police force in undertaking its mandate to serve and protect the people.”
“As we celebrate the foundation of the PNP, may today be a reminder of the pride and honor we bring to our country whenever we fulfill our duties with integrity, honesty, and excellence,” he added. “Together, we can contribute to the aspirations of a Bagong Pilipinas that is safe, secure, peaceful, and progressive.”
PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil said the PNP remains steadfast in its role as a “partner in fostering a government rooted in integrity, unity, and progress.”
“Together, we are committed to building trust, fostering collaboration, and creating a brighter future for every Filipino,” said Marbil. “As we celebrate PNP Day…I encourage everyone to strengthen our commitment to this shared goal.”