Focus crimes drop 38% in Western Visayas

By Jennifer P. Rendon

Western Visayas opened 2026 with improved public safety, as police recorded a significant decline in focus crimes across the region.

Data from the Police Regional Office (PRO)-6 showed a reduction in incidents involving 10 focus crimes in January 2026.

Police recorded 106 cases in January 2026, down from 171 incidents in January 2025, marking a decrease of 65 cases or 38.01 percent.

The 10 focus crimes include murder, homicide, physical injury, rape, robbery, theft, carnapping of motor vehicles, carnapping of motorcycles, cybercrime, and kidnapping.

Authorities said the sustained decline continues the region’s downward crime trend, signaling improved law enforcement effectiveness and stronger public safety at the start of the year.

PBrig. Gen. Josefino Ligan, regional police director, attributed the reduction to sustained police visibility, intensified anti-criminality operations, and stronger coordination with local government units and community stakeholders.

“This significant decrease reflects the dedication of our police personnel and the strong support of our communities,” Ligan said, adding that the police remain focused on sustaining these gains and further improving service delivery.

He said PRO-6 continues to implement intelligence-driven and community-centered policing strategies while ensuring discipline, professionalism, and respect for human rights among police personnel.

Ligan also assured the public that crime-prevention efforts will be further intensified to maintain peace and order and ensure safer communities across Western Visayas.