CAMIGUIN (PIA) — In response to a 29.17% increase in crime incidents during the first two months of 2025, compared with the same period in 2024, the Camiguin Police Provincial Office (Cam PPO) is stepping up its law enforcement efforts. This was announced at the 1st Quarter 2025 joint meeting of key councils held at the New Capitol Building in Mambajao on March 5.
“The previous period had a total of 24 crimes, broken down into seven index crimes, nine non-index crimes and eight public safety indicators, or traffic accidents. The current period has a total of 32 crimes, broken down into six index crimes, 13 non-index crimes and 13 public safety indicators, or traffic accidents. It increased by eight incidents, or 33.33%,” said Police Col. Benbo Jumalon, Cam PPO director.
Highlighting the rising crime rates, Jumalon emphasized the intensified efforts to enhance law enforcement, improve crime prevention strategies and increase police presence throughout the province.
The Cam PPO also reported a 62.5% increase in public safety incidents, including traffic-related accidents and reckless imprudence cases. In response, police conducted 12,336 foot patrols and 8,771 mobile patrols.
“PNP personnel performing administrative functions rendered daily patrols in schools, markets and other places of emergencies. A total of 360 ‘Higalang Pulis’ and 250 recoridas were conducted,” Jumalon added.
In addition to regular patrols, several operations led to the arrest of wanted criminals, including the capture of a top 7 provincial most-wanted individual for car theft and multiple arrests for theft, violations of the anti-smoking ordinance and domestic violence-related offenses.
Nine individuals were arrested from January to February 2025, with law enforcement officials seizing 6.95 grams of illegal drugs worth more than ₱49,260. The Cam PPO continues to encourage the voluntary surrender of unlicensed firearms through the “Revitalized Katok” program, with eight house visitations conducted to collect loose firearms.
In parallel with enforcement efforts, the Cam PPO has bolstered community-based initiatives, including the “Higalang Pulis” program, 303 community engagement activities and 47 free transportation services under the “Libreng Sakay” initiative.
Furthermore, police officers have been distributing hotline keychains, visiting barangays and participating in public awareness campaigns to engage the community and raise awareness of safety measures.
Looking ahead, Jumalon revealed that the Cam PPO is preparing for key events such as Panaad 2025 and the 2025 National and Local Elections. Plans are in place to increase visibility, enhance intelligence operations and strengthen coordination with local authorities to ensure the safety and security of the public. (RTP/PIA-10/Camiguin)
