Soccsksargen crimes down but COVID-19 threat to be reckoned with: PNP

March 23, 2020

Crime incidents recorded in Soccsksargen (South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani and General Santos City) decreased by 64.29 percent amid 2019 coronavirus or COVID-19 threat, according to the regional Philippine National Police(PNP) office on Monday.

Police Brigadier General Alfred Corpus, the regional director,  said for the last 22 days, from March 1 to 22, there’s a decrease of 64.29 percent on crime incidents, especially on heinous crimes such as murder, homicide, robbery, theft, physical injury, MC ( motorcar) motornapping, MV ( motorvehicle) motornapping and rape compared to the same period of last year. 

“Region 12 grows more peaceful than ever with lesser crime incidents tallied but the threat of the pandemic is one to be reckoned with,” Corpus said.

“That is why PRO 12 personnel, to include all members of the security sector and of the taskforce against COVID-19,must remain away from home to render selfless duty to the public,” he added.

Corpus said their intensified checkpoints and anti-criminality campaign continue. 

“Checkpoints have been established at boarders and entry points of the region to prevent non-essential entry and furtherance of the virus contagion,” he said.

“Only essential travel such as travels by reason of transport of basic necessities, for work, medical emergencies and government functions; provided that in case of land travel, one driver and one helper of cargo trucks/vehicles shall be allowed and in case of cargo planes and vessels no passengers are allowed,” he added.

Corpus reiterated there will be strict implementation of lockdown in the region.

Only vehicles with basic commodities essential for daily needs will be allowed to enter the premises of Region 12 and those who will not comply, will not cooperate and abide with the police officers can be arrested and charged with Article 151 or Article 148 of the revised penal code and also they can be arrested in violation of Executive Orders related to preventing the spread of COVID-19. 

Corpus reminded  people they should not leave their homes  to save themselves and their families from the deadly virus and its possible spread. 

“The best way for the people to contribute in this global health concern is to adhere to the policies, cooperate with the government, and remain at home until further announcements are published,” Corpus said. Ella Dionisio/DMS