SPEAKER Martin Romualdez on Tuesday praised the Philippine National Police (PNP) for its stronger, smarter policing as it recorded a sharp decline in focus crimes nationwide and the swift arrest of the suspect in the recent Antipolo road rage shooting.
Romualdez lauded PNP Chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil for leading reforms that enhanced crime prevention strategies and improved response times.
He said the PNP’s quick action in the Antipolo incident, where the suspect was caught within an hour, demonstrates that the rule of law is alive and working.
The Speaker also praised the police officers involved, who were awarded the Medalya ng Kagalingan for their exemplary service.
The commendation included Lt. Orlando Santos Jalmasco and seven other officers.
Romualdez highlighted that high-profile arrests send a strong message: criminals have no safe havens.
He pointed out that PNP data showed a 26.76 percent drop in focus crimes in early 2025, with rape cases seeing the steepest decline.
He reaffirmed the House of Representatives’ support for legislation that strengthens the PNP’s capacity, ensuring Filipino communities remain safe under the Marcos administration.
“We cannot afford to lose this momentum. Let this be a wake-up call to would-be offenders and a reassurance to every law-abiding Filipino—peace and order is non-negotiable, and the government under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. will act swiftly and decisively,” the House leader said.