Cops: Crime in CV dropped by 16% last month

CEBU,, Philippines — Total crime incidents in Central Visayas dropped by 16.51% in September 2026, with 2,448 cases recorded compared to 2,932 cases in August, according to the Police Regional Office-7 (PRO-7).

The figure was 484 cases lower than in August, with PRO-7 attributing the decline to intensified crime prevention and suppression operations, increased police visibility, and closer coordination with local government units, partner agencies, and communities.

The eight focus crimes also recorded a 21.84% decrease, from 206 cases in August to 161 cases in September, or 45 fewer cases.

Murder cases dropped by 45%, from 20 to 11, while physical injury cases decreased by 34.09%, from 44 to 29. Robbery cases also declined by 38.10%, from 21 to 13, while rape cases decreased by 23.81%, from 21 to 16.

Theft cases dropped by 7.06%, from 85 to 79, while motorcycle carnapping cases decreased by 33.33%, from six to four.

No motor vehicle carnapping cases were recorded in September, compared to two cases in August, representing a 100% decrease.

Homicide, however, increased by 28.57%, from seven cases in August to nine in September.

PRO-7 Regional Director Police Brig. Gen. Arnold Abad attributed the overall decline in crime incidents to the continued efforts of police personnel and their partner agencies to protect communities.

Abad thanked police personnel for their continued work in protecting the public and stressed the importance of cooperation among LGUs, partner agencies and communities in maintaining peace and security in Central Visayas.

PRO-7 also recorded 1,940 arrests in September as part of its campaign against criminality. These included 725 arrests related to illegal drugs, 633 for illegal gambling, 112 involving loose firearms, and 470 involving wanted persons.

The Public Safety Indicator also decreased amid intensified traffic law enforcement and closer coordination with LGUs and partner agencies in addressing traffic-related concerns.

PRO-7 called for continued support from LGUs, partner agencies, and communities to sustain the gains in public safety and further improve security in Central Visayas.