Manila, Dec. 11 -- The nationwide crime rate went down by 12.86 percent in November, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said Thursday.

Data released on Thursday showed index crimes dropped to 2,615 last month from 3,001 in October, reflecting a decrease of 386 cases.

Focus crimes are murder, homicide, rape, physical injury, carnapping of motorcycles and motor vehicles, and theft.

In a statement, PNP acting chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. attributed the decline in crime rate to enhanced police visibility, better intelligence operations and stringent law enforcement.

"This is proof that our strategies are working. Our men and women in uniform are committed to keeping our communities safe," he added.

Among the focus crimes, ...