CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA) — The implementation of the Serbisyong CARDO has reduced crime incidents in northern Mindanao, according to Police Regional Office (PRO)-10 Director PBGen Ricardo Layug, Jr.
“Our ongoing campaign against criminality has resulted in a decrease in crime rates, focusing on addressing illegal drugs, targeting high-value individuals, seizing loose firearms, apprehending wanted persons, and tackling insurgency, illegal gambling, smuggled cigarettes, and other unlawful activities,” Layug said during the 11th episode of Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas on August 6.
As a result, this initiative has contributed to a 31.22 percent reduction in crime incidents, decreasing from 615 cases between April and June 2023 to 423 cases during the same period in 2024.
Additionally, PRO-10’s anti-insurgency operations have led to the surrender of 193 members of the communist terrorist group (CTG), the arrest of 89 individuals, and the confiscation of 85 firearms. Its manhunt operations have also successfully apprehended 8,639 wanted persons.
Layug further reported the confiscation of over P159 million worth of substances and the arrest of 5,829 drug personalities, including 566 high-value individuals. This resulted in the declaration of 175 drug-cleared barangays, contributing to a total of 82.36 percent, or 1,537 drug-cleared barangays in the region.
PRO-10 seized over P21 million worth of smuggled cigarettes as part of anti-smuggling efforts, and they also arrested 50 individuals for illegal gambling activities.
Layug explained that CARDO stands for Commitment to excellence and efficiency, Adherence to PNP policies and programs, Respect for human rights, Dedication to the rule of law, and Outstanding collaboration and partnership with the community and stakeholders. This program aligns with the five-focused agenda of Philippine National Police Chief PGen Benjamin Casuga Acorda, Jr., and the “Bagong Pilipinas” brand of governance and leadership promoted by President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos, Jr.
Layug also shared that PRO-10 continues to work with other government agencies to monitor Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) in the region.
“At present, there are no identified POGO operations in the region. However, we assure the public that we will continue their efforts against individuals involved in illegal activities,” he added.
The regional police office has likewise started its preparations to ensure a safe and peaceful electoral process. Layug said they will focus on addressing illegal firearms, drugs, and private armed groups to protect the democratic process and maintain a secure and orderly electoral environment.
Meanwhile, Layug called on the public to remain vigilant and cooperative and report any untoward incidents or illegal activities in their community.
The Presidential Communications Office and the Philippine Information Agency conduct the weekly Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas forum to enhance government transparency and promote public engagement. This initiative seeks to enhance public awareness of government programs, projects, and services, with a special emphasis on those implemented at the local level. (APB/PIA-10)
