By Jennifer P. Rendon
The downward trend in crime volume in Iloilo province continues.
For the past nine months, the Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO) recorded 3,450 crime incidents, 30.06 percent lower compared to last year’s 4,933 crime incidents.
Colonel Gilbert Gorero, Iloilo police chief, said that the quarantine imposed to prevent the spread of COVID-19 helped in the police’s crime prevention efforts.
Focus crimes consequently dropped from 646 cases in 2019 to only 462 this year, or a reduction of around 17 percent.
Gorero, however, noted the numbers of homicide and murder cases in focus crime increased by almost 10 and 16 percent, respectively.
“We have observed these cases (homicide and murder) transpired in far flung areas. Of these cases, 61 were committed with the use of firearms which ensued after a heated argument between the parties,” he said.
Gorero surmised that while the community quarantine caused the over-all decline of crime volume, it could have some effects on an individual’s temper.
“Many people are getting bored at home, and a great many are probably getting anxious because of the uncertainties brought by this pandemic. Their temperament is getting shorter, and become emotional,” he said.
To address the predicament, Gorero enjoined all station chiefs to reach out the local officials in the far-flung barangays for the mobilization of tanods in monitoring their areas of responsibility.
He also appealed to the public to get themselves busy in more productive activities while the quarantine measures are in effect during this pandemic.
“Instead of drinking session, busy yourselves by planting vegetables and ornamentals. This will keep you preoccupied of positive thoughts while turning your idle time more productive,” he said.
