BACOLOD City — The Police Regional Office–Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) reported that a protest rally linked to the ongoing global fuel crisis remained peaceful in this locality on March 19, as transport groups staged actions opposing rising oil prices.
In a press statement, PRO-NIR confirmed that no major security incidents were recorded during the transport strike.
A small protest was held at the Northbound Terminal in Barangay Bata, Bacolod City, where around 35 individuals gathered to express opposition to continued fuel price hikes and the oil deregulation law, police said.
The rally lasted for less than 30 minutes—from 10:12 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.—and proceeded without disruption, according to police monitoring.
To maintain order, PRO-NIR deployed 1,278 personnel across Negros Island, including civil disturbance teams, patrol units, traffic officers, and checkpoint personnel. Additional support included drone monitoring and increased police visibility in key areas.
Authorities also rolled out “Libreng Sakay” services, deploying dozens of vehicles to assist commuters affected by the transport strike.
Despite concerns over possible unrest tied to the fuel crisis, police said the situation remained under control throughout the day.
PRO-NIR Regional Director Brig. Gen. Arnold Thomas C. Ibay attributed the peaceful outcome to both police preparedness and public cooperation.
While the protest turnout was relatively small, it reflects growing concerns over fuel costs in Negros Island. Police said they will maintain heightened alertness as similar actions may arise in the coming days./PN
