Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. on Monday reminded police officers not to become complacent despite the continued decline in the country's focus crime rate.

Speaking during the flag-raising ceremony at Camp Crame, Nartatez said the reduction in crime should instead motivate the police force to further strengthen law enforcement efforts and improve public safety, as reported by RH Edniel Parrosa.

According to PNP data, the country's focus crime rate dropped by 20.6% following the implementation of the Safer Cities Initiative, a program being promoted by the Marcos administration.

Despite the positive trend, Nartatez acknowledged that ensuring justice for victims of criminal incidents remains a significant challenge for the police.

"These gains should never make us complacent. Every crime that occurs is one too many. Every victim deserves justice and every police officer must remain ready to respond with urgency, professionalism and compassion," Nartatez said.

He added that the PNP's goal is not only to sustain the decline in crime but also to further improve public safety across the country.

"Our challenge is not simply to sustain these gains, but to build on them," he said.

Meanwhile, Acting PNP spokesperson Police Colonel Allen Rae Co earlier said public perception of crime is often influenced by highly publicized incidents of violence, including the killings of motorcycle taxi riders and the continued reporting of violence-related incidents involving schools.

Co said these cases receive extensive media attention, but stressed that the PNP remains committed to addressing all crimes while maintaining professionalism and readiness in responding to incidents.