BACOLOD City – Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson of Negros Occidental lauded the cooperation between local government units (LGUs), the police and residents in the province’s ongoing fight against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
“If we are to overcome COVID-19, there has to be synergy between the LGU, Philippine National Police and the community,” Lacson said during the awarding ceremony of the 1st Shoot for Peace at Camp Alfredo M. Montelibano Sr. here.
The event was organized by the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office (NOCPPO) headed by Colonel Romy Palgue to raise funds for police personnel infected with COVID-19.
In the middle of October, the NOCPPO recorded 26 confirmed cases, including two police station chiefs. Fourteen initially recovered.
“I hope this event, aside from being an avenue to showcase your expertise, was able to refresh and further develop your proficiency in gun handling and accuracy. More than that, please accept my gratitude for this activity was an instrument for a worthy undertaking,” the governor said.
He added that a lot of things were achieved by the activity; it helped Negrense policemen who contracted the virus and commemorated the province’s Peace Month at the same time.
Lacson also thanked civilian gun enthusiasts who supported the government’s efforts to address the adverse effects of the health crisis.
Moreover, the governor cited the Negrense police personnel for their selfless and courageous service as they “carry the critical role of being the central element in preserving law and order, and in ensuring public safety.”
He said that as the pandemic requires the need for police visibility in all towns and cities, he earnestly hopes that their presence in the community will create heightened trust and connection to the people.
“I am confident that together, we can make Negros Occidental a place where peace and order are upheld, and a place safe from all sorts of threat, may it be an unseen enemy like the virus or otherwise,” Lacson said./PN
