FIRST 100 DAYS UNDER MENDEZ SEES CRIME REDUCTION IN CENTRAL LUZON

BY KEVIN GALANG

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga – A significant drop in crime was recorded across Central Luzon during the first 100 days of Brig. Gen. Jess Mendez as director of the Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3).

Index crimes decreased from 918 cases to 883 cases during the period, while Crime Solution Efficiency rose from 71.57 percent to 78.26 percent, reflecting enhanced investigative and operational performance among police units.

The PRO3 has reported significant accomplishments in crime prevention, law enforcement, and organizational discipline during the first 100 days of leadership of Mendez from February 24 to June 3, 2026.

PRO3 highlighted notable gains in its anti-criminality campaign across Central Luzon, in line with the focused agenda of Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr..

According to PRO3, anti-illegal drug operations remained a top priority, with police conducting 2,494 operations that resulted in the arrest of 3,407 drug suspects. 

Authorities also seized illegal drugs with an estimated value of more than P89 million.

The campaign against loose firearms also yielded positive results, with 349 violators arrested and 1,467 firearms recovered through confiscation, voluntary surrender, and deposit programs.

Meanwhile, intensified manhunt operations led to the arrest of 2,938 wanted persons, including 673 individuals listed as Most Wanted Persons. 

Police also implemented 140 search warrants that resulted in the arrest of 119 suspects involved in various criminal activities.

Under the Safer Cities Program, police units apprehended 249,910 violators of traffic laws and local ordinances, contributing to improved road safety and public order across the region.

PRO3 likewise reported improvements in the region’s peace and order situation. 

Apart from operational accomplishments, PRO3 also strengthened its internal cleansing campaign aimed at promoting professionalism and accountability within the police organization. 

Records showed that 50 personnel were suspended, 15 were dismissed from the service, and two were demoted for various administrative offenses.

Mendez credited the achievements to the dedication and teamwork of police personnel throughout Central Luzon.

“These gains are the result of the hardwork and commitment of our police officers on the ground. Guided by the PNP Focused Agenda, we will continue to intensify our operations against criminality, uphold integrity within our ranks, and strengthen our partnership with the communities we serve,” he said.

Mendez said the PRO3 remains committed to sustaining its operational gains and further enhancing people-centered policing through responsive, honest, and community-focused public service.