LEGAZPI CITY, April 8 -- The Police Regional Office in Bicol (PRO-5) reported on Tuesday a 9.71-percent decrease in the crime rate in the region during the first three months of the year, compared to the same period last year.

PRO-5 Director Brig. Gen. Andre Dizon said 5,020 crimes were recorded from January to March, 540 cases lower than the 5,560 incidents in the first quarter of 2024.

"The decline is the result of enhanced police visibility, intensified law enforcement efforts, and proactive community engagement," Dizon said.

Dizon said the total crime volume, consisting of both index and non-index crimes, went down this quarter.

In the first quarter of 2025, a total of 508 index crimes were recorded, compared to 646 cases last yea...