Quezon city: The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) called on all sectors to strengthen collective efforts in peace and order as the country’s crime rate continues to decline. In support of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to adopt a whole-of-society approach in crime prevention, DILG Undersecretary for Public Affairs and Communications Rolando Puno emphasized the necessity of unity among local government units (LGUs), communities, and the citizenry.

According to Philippines News Agency, the collaboration between LGUs, law enforcers, and citizens forms a robust defense against crime. Puno highlighted this during the culmination of the 31st National Crime Prevention Week at the National Police Commission (Napolcom) headquarters in Quezon City. A recent news release revealed a 15.77 percent reduction in crime volume from July 2022 to May 2025 compared to July 2019 to May 2022. Additionally, there was an 8.38 percent decrease from January to August this year compared to the same period in 2024.

Puno stressed that these statistics are more than mere numbers, as they signify lives protected, families secured, and communities given the opportunity to flourish. He urged local leaders to maintain cooperative efforts with police forces and the communities they serve, expressing gratitude to Metro Manila LGUs for their contributions to crime prevention and maintaining peace and order.

Napolcom Vice Chairperson and Executive Officer Rafael Vicente Calinisan reiterated that LGUs are a vital connection between national policy and grassroots action. The National Crime Prevention Week, observed every first week of September, is led by Napolcom with the support of DILG, the Philippine National Police, and other relevant stakeholders.