Metro crime rate dips in second quarter

The peace and order situation in Metro Manila has significantly improved from April to June with a 2.17 percent reduction in crimes compared to the same period last year, the National Capital Regional Police Office (NCRPO) reported.

Metro police chief Deputy Director General Reynaldo Varilla attributed the reduction in incidents of crime to the alertness of the NCRPO, especially in going after criminals such as cell phone and bag snatchers, armed robbers, pickpockets and members of “salisi” gangs.

Varilla lauded the 15,000-strong NCRPO for sustaining its anti-crime programs and projects such as the Nightwatch and the Motorized Anti-Street Crime Operatives (MASCO), checkpoints and Oplan Sita.

“The continuous implementation of the Nightwatch operations in the five police districts in Metro Manila is our strategic deterrent to street crime that are prevalent during night time,” Varilla said, adding that “the deployment of MASCO as our countermeasure against criminal elements on board motorcycles and vehicles are all part of the NCRPO’s plan of action.”

He said their Metro Manila policemen are under continuous training in civil disturbance management (CDM) and the shooting competition among Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) units should improve their skills and ensure their readiness. – Non Alquitran