THE Philippine National Police (PNP) on Monday downplayed China’s security advisory for its citizens that the country’s crime situation is worsening. PNP Public Information Chief BGen. Randulf Tuaño said the number of crime incidents has actually dropped, from 26,969 for January to August 2024, to 22,519 during the same period in 2025. This represents a 16.15-percent decline, or 4,450 fewer reported criminal cases, Tuaño said. “The crime rate in the Philippines is not worsening,” he said, reassuring the public that the peace and order situation remains under control. Tuaño said recent incidents may have prompted the Chinese Embassy to issue the advisory, particularly the 21 kidnapping cases involving Chinese nationals from July to August this year. The incidents reportedly involved Chinese victimizing fellow Chinese. In its advisory issued on Sunday, the embassy said “public security in the Philippines has been worsening,” citing an increase in crimes targeting Chinese. Beijing urged Chinese in the country to remain cautious, avoid high-risk areas, and assess security risks before planning trips to the Philippines. Tuaño said PNP acting chief LtGen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has ordered the force to coordinate with the Chinese Embassy to determine the basis of Beijing’s crime alert. The Department of Foreign Affairs said China’s advisory was an unfair and inaccurate portrayal of the country’s security situation.