By Liezelle Soriano

MANILA — General Benjamin Acorda Jr., the chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), underscored the importance of addressing cybercrimes despite the overall improvement in the country’s crime statistics.

“While it may seem that our crime statistics have improved—showing a decrease of 10 percent—further examination reveals the necessity for us to concentrate on cybercrimes,” he stated.

Presenting the National Peace and Order Situation report to the President, General Acorda noted a 10.66 percent reduction in reported crimes between July 1, 2022, and January 31, 2024, compared to the period from December 1, 2020, to June 30, 2022.

In response to this, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. directed the enhancement and fortification of the Philippine National Police’s cybersecurity systems.

“We observed a slight increase, as reported during the last quarter. In line with this, as per the President’s directive, we are bolstering and equipping our police personnel on the ground. Previously, our cybercrime units were only operational up to the regional level,” General Acorda remarked.

He further elaborated, “This time, we are conducting training for our personnel, to reach down to the police station and municipal levels. We will have police officers trained to address cybercrimes or online offenses.”

General Acorda revealed that the majority of cybercrimes reported to the PNP were committed locally, with swindling or estafa being the most commonly reported cybercrime.

(el Amigo/MNM)

By Liezelle Soriano

MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has extended the term of Philippine National Police Chief General Benjamin Acorda Jr. until March 31, 2024, Malacañang announced on Monday (04 Dec 2023).

“I wish to inform you that, according to the provisions of existing laws, your service as Chief (Police General), Philippine National Police, is hereby extended until March 31, 2024,” read a letter sent by Marcos to Acorda.

Acorda celebrated his 56th birthday on Sunday, December 3, reaching the mandatory retirement age for PNP personnel. Marcos appointed him as PNP chief on April 24, 2023.

The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benjamin Abajos Jr. was also notified in a transmittal letter dated December 1, 2023, and signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, regarding Acorda’s extension of service.

The PNP operates as an attached agency of the DILG.

Acorda, a member of the Philippine Military Academy Sambisig Class of 1991, has dedicated nearly 37 years of service to the PNP. He previously served as the director of the PNP Directorate for Intelligence before assuming the role of PNP Chief.

(ai/mnm)