NCR crimes down 23%

MANILA, Philippines — The number of index crimes in Metro Manila decreased by 23 percent in the first quarter of 2025, according to the National Capital Region Police Office.

The NCRPO attributed the drop in crime volume to collaboration with stakeholders such as local government units and private organizations.

“This cooperative synergy remains crucial in maintaining and building upon the progress made in both crime prevention and resolution,” the NCRPO said in a statement on Monday.

Index crimes refer to the eight most frequently committed offenses: theft, murder, homicide, physical injury, rape, robbery, car theft and motorcycle theft.

From Jan. 1 to April 4, the NCRPO recorded 1,305 index crimes, down from 1,710 cases logged in the same period last year.

Crime solution efficiency, based on the NCRPO data, stood at over 95 percent, which means nearly all of the index crimes recorded were considered solved.

The NCRPO also touted the apprehension of 3,683 drug suspects during the same period in over 2,000 operations.

Police seized over 21,000 grams of shabu worth P144 million and nearly 8,000 grams of marijuana valued at P957,000.

SPD gets new chief

Meanwhile, Brig. Gen. Joseph Arguelles took the helm of the Southern Police District (SPD) on Monday.

Arguelles replaced Brig. Gen. Manuel Abrugena, who was named deputy regional director for operations at the NCRPO.

The SPD has jurisdiction over Las Piñas, Makati, Muntinlupa, Parañaque, Pasay, Pateros and Taguig.

Prior to his appointment, Arguelles served as chief of the Peace Process and Development Center, which is tasked with promoting peace in conflict-ridden areas.

Arguelles has served as police chief of Imus, Cavite, and provincial director of Rizal and Quezon.