Crime down in MisOcc; PNP pushes road, drug safety


Misamis Occidental-- Amid ongoing efforts to ensure peace and public safety in Misamis Occidental, the Philippine National Police (PNP)-Misamis Occidental reported a general decline in crime and highlighted intensified efforts to improve road safety and sustain the anti-drug campaign. These updates were presented during the 2nd Quarter Joint Council Meeting on June 20, 2025, at the Asenso Misamis Occidental Sports and Cultural Center (AMOSACC), covering data from January 1 to June 15, 2025. The report underscores the province's ongoing commitment to public safety through focused crime prevention, road clearing operations, and sustained drug enforcement efforts.

Road Crash Incidents: A Call for Continued Vigilance

A total of 158 road crash incidents have been recorded in the province during the first half of 2025, involving 287 vehicles, 15 pedestrians, and 2 stray animals. Authorities also noted a disturbing trend involving underage drivers: 13 drivers were minors (below 17 years old), 87 were aged 18–30 years, 163 were adults aged 31–59 years, 29 were senior citizens aged 60 and above. Of the drivers involved, 181 had valid licenses, while 70 were found to be unlicensed.

To address this issue, Police Major James De Leon called on the Peace and Order Council to support stronger inter-agency coordination, especially in clearing national and provincial roads of obstructions. Authorities have identified 125 electric and utility posts that are obstructing public roads and are urging local government units to expedite their relocation. The PNP also recommends the strict enforcement of Provincial Ordinance No. 13-21, which mandates the removal of illegal structures along provincial roads.

Crimes and Focus Crime Trends: A General Decline in 2025

Crime statistics show a decline in total recorded crimes, with 629 incidents from January to June 2025, compared to 660 incidents during the same period in 2024.

Focus crimes also saw improvements in several categories: Murder decreased from 12 to 7, Rape fell significantly from 29 to 11, Physical injuries dropped from 22 to 10

However, some areas saw slight increases: Homicide rose from 19 to 21, Carnapping more than doubled, from 5 to 11.

PNP-MisOcc, led by Provincial Director PCol Rommel Magleo, continues to implement proactive strategies and maintain rapid police response times of 3 to 5 minutes, contributing to enhanced public safety and community trust.

Illegal Drugs Campaign: Continuous Operations, Shifting Trends

From January 1 to June 15, 2025, the PNP conducted 98 anti-drug operations, resulting in 117 arrests. Authorities confiscated: 180.026 grams of shabu valued at ₱1,224,176.80, 2 grams of marijuana valued at ₱240.

In comparison, the same period in 2024 saw 99 operations, 113 arrests, and the seizure of 198.16 grams of shabu (₱1,347,488) and 6.48 grams of marijuana (₱777.60).

The data reflects consistent efforts despite a slight decline in the volume of confiscated drugs. However, the Provincial Police Office noted a rise in drug target-listed personalities, with supplies reportedly sourced from neighboring provinces. A key challenge remains the non-functional Barangay/Municipal/City Anti-Drug Abuse Councils (B/M/CADACs), which affects the overall performance of localities in combating illegal drugs.

Maintaining Peace and Safety in Misamis Occidental

Despite ongoing challenges, the PNP affirms that Misamis Occidental remains generally peaceful and manageable. The province continues to be a desirable destination for living, investing, and doing business. Sustained police presence, effective inter-agency cooperation, and engaged communities remain crucial in maintaining law and order.

The PNP calls on all stakeholders—LGUs, civic organizations, utility providers, and the public—to remain vigilant and cooperative. With shared responsibility and continued coordination, Misamis Occidental can maintain and even strengthen its reputation as a safe and progressive province. (SN/PGMO)

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