Rape still tops Apayao crime incidents in Jan.-Jul. 2024

Apayao, Philippines – Despite a slight decrease of 4.46 % in crime rate in Apayao from January to July 2024 compared to same period last year, data show rape still tops the crime incidents logged in the province.

In January to June 2023, 22 crimes were recorded in which rape was also one of the top crimes documented with 13 cases. Compared to the record in the same period this year, there are 21 crimes reported and 9 were rape cases.

Other crime incidents were car napping (3), murder (2), physical injuries (2), robbery (2), and theft (2). There was one homicide.

Rape became a hot topic in Apayao when some local officials have been implicated in alleged sexual abuses against minors, prompting Governor Elias C. Bulut Jr. to direct chief executives and concerned agencies like the Philippine National Police and the Department of Education in Apayao to do something about it.

In response, the Apayao police have implemented interventions like Barangay visitation and police presence. They also launched the project “JEPOY” or Joint Effort to Protect the Offspring of Apayao.

Bulut Jr., in previous speeches, reminded the public of the importance of the youth and their protection as the next generations of yApayaos. And thus, the governor would always emphasize prioritizing the well-being of the people, by maintaining peace, safety and order province-wide, aiming for a zero-crime rate.

Bulut lauded the Police for being able to decrease crime incidents through their efforts, and earnestly asked for their continuous and strong campaign against crime threats.

In an interview, Apayao PPO PLTCOL Oliver Panabang said although crime incidents are not that high, they will focus on rape prevention, considering it is the most committed crime across the province.