BACOLOD City – The Police Regional Office–Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) reported zero major untoward incidents across the region during the fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on July 27, attributing the peaceful observance to effective security operations and strong public cooperation.
Nearly 600 police personnel were deployed across Negros Island as part of heightened security measures before, during, and after the President’s annual address.
Police were strategically stationed in key areas, while all units remained on full alert and closely coordinated with local government units, partner agencies, and force multipliers to maintain peace and public order.
Despite several SONA-related public activities in Bacolod City, the region remained peaceful throughout the day, according to PRO-NIR.
Among the activities monitored by authorities was a dialogue held at around 10:45 a.m. at the Baldevia Building on the corner of San Juan and San Sebastian streets in Barangay 13, Bacolod City, attended by about 70 participants.
At around 12:43 p.m., an estimated 300 protesters marched from South Capitol Road near the Lagoon to the BCGC Replica at the Bacolod City Public Plaza.
The demonstrators expressed various political and social concerns through placards and slogans before peacefully concluding the rally at around 3:40 p.m.
Police secured the entire activity, ensuring that participants were able to exercise their constitutional right to peaceful assembly while maintaining public order.
PRO-NIR said the peaceful conduct of SONA-related activities reflected the professionalism, vigilance, and operational readiness of its personnel, bolstered by the support of local government units, partner agencies, force multipliers, and the cooperation of the public.
“The peaceful and orderly conduct of the Fifth State of the Nation Address in the Negros Island Region reflects the commitment, discipline, and professionalism of our police personnel, as well as the invaluable support of our partner agencies, local government units, and every law-abiding Negrense,” said Police Brig. Gen. Romano Cardiño, PRO-NIR regional director.
“We extend our sincere appreciation to the public for their discipline, cooperation, and trust, which were instrumental in the successful implementation of our security operations. This collective effort demonstrates that through unity, mutual respect, and shared responsibility, we can effectively uphold public safety while safeguarding the constitutional rights of every Filipino,” he added.
Anchored on its SAFE NIR Program, PRO-NIR reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining peace and security across the region through proactive policing, strengthened partnerships, and respect for constitutional rights./PN
