PRO3 REPORTS DROP IN CENTRAL LUZON CRIME RATE IN FIRST 100 DAYS UNDER PEÑONES

BY KEVIN GALANG

CAMP OLIVAS, City of San Fernando, Pampanga — The Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3) has reported that crime rate in Central Luzon dropped in the first 100 days under the leadership of Regional Director Brig. Gen. Ponce Rogelio Peñones Jr..

PRO3 record shows that from June 19 to Sept. 27, some 4,426 index crime cases were  down by 48 compared to 4,474 cases during the same period last year while focus crimes also decreased by 100 cases, from 1,021 to 921.

Police officials said the drop, though modest, reflects the region’s intensified efforts to curb criminality and safeguard communities.

During the same period, PRO3 arrested 1,596 wanted persons, including 370 classified as most wanted. 

Notably, within just one week this September, police successfully captured the Top 10 regional most wanted persons, sending what officials described as “a strong message that justice will always catch up with fugitives.”

The regional police office also reported progress in its campaign against loose firearms, with 635 illegal firearms confiscated and 330 violators arrested. 

Authorities likewise secured peace and order during the 53rd Martial Law anniversary demonstrations on September 21.

While some personnel deployed in Mendiola, Manila sustained injuries, no casualties were recorded among both demonstrators and police, which officials said underscored their adherence to maximum tolerance and respect for human rights.

Meanwhile, anti-illegal drug operations yielded more than P906.5 million worth of confiscated narcotics in the first 100 days. 

These included 132,058 grams of shabu valued at P898 million, 34,326.48 grams of marijuana worth P2.7 million, and other substances such as cocaine, ecstasy, and kush valued at P3 million.

Police said the operations disrupted drug networks and demonstrated PRO3’s commitment to shielding the youth from the dangers of narcotics.

“Our first 100 days stand as proof of what unity, discipline, and dedication can achieve,” Peñones Jr. said. 

“Guided by the orders of acting chief PNP Lt. Gen Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., we reaffirm our commitment to protect the people, pursue peace and order, and promote professionalism within the ranks,” the Central Luzon top cop said.

“This is only the beginning. Our fight against crime and our mission to serve with excellence will continue stronger than ever,” he added.