BACOLOD City — To ensure a solemn, meaningful, and safe observance of Holy Week, the Police Regional Office–Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) will deploy more than 1,000 personnel across Negros Island from March 29 to April 5.
In a statement, PRO-NIR said the deployment aims to maintain peace and order during the Lenten period, when thousands of devotees are expected to travel, gather, and participate in religious activities.
Police personnel will be assigned to high-traffic and convergence areas, including churches, major thoroughfares, transportation hubs, terminals, and commercial establishments, to enhance visibility and ensure prompt response to any incidents.
Augmenting forces will come from the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office, Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office, Siquijor Police Provincial Office, and the Bacolod City Police Office.
The regional police also strengthened coordination with local government units, partner agencies, and force multipliers to bolster security operations and manage crowds, particularly in pilgrimage sites and other high-density areas.
Assistance desks and police help stations will be set up in strategic locations to provide immediate aid and information to the public.
Arnold Thomas C. Ibay, regional director of PRO-NIR, emphasized that the deployment goes beyond crime prevention.
“Our police presence is a commitment to stand with our communities, safeguard every family, and ensure that every devotee can observe Holy Week in peace, dignity, and security,” he said.
Authorities advised the public to remain vigilant, follow safety protocols, secure their homes before traveling, and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station./PN
