PNP ready against possible crime spike

The Philippine National Police on Friday assured the public it is fully prepared to keep peace and order amid concerns that rising fuel prices could trigger more theft and robbery.

PNP chief Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the current economic climate is unlikely to spark a surge in crime, but emphasized that the police force is ready for any scenario.

“The PNP’s security plan and personnel training are always geared toward worst-case scenarios,” Nartatez said.

To strengthen its presence on the ground, the PNP has ramped up foot and mobile patrols, particularly in high-risk areas such as markets, transport hubs, and commercial centers. More uniformed personnel have also been deployed in public markets, terminals, and shopping districts to deter criminal activity.

Random checkpoints have been set up in key locations, while mobile patrol units are operating during peak hours to boost visibility and response.

“Hindi lang reactive ang PNP (The PNP is not only reactive), we are preventive. Gumagamit tayo ng (We use) data analytics to identify hotspots at doon natin dinadagdagan ang deployment ng kapulisan (where we deploy additional police personnel),” Nartatez said.

The PNP noted that authorities are closely watching trends in property crimes, which tend to rise during periods of higher costs, especially in densely populated urban areas.