BACOLOD City – The Police Regional Office–Negros Island Region (PRO NIR) marked another milestone in strengthening public safety and police infrastructure with the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of Police Station 9 (PS9) of the Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) on January 23, at Barangay Cabug here.
The activity underscores PRO NIR’s continued commitment to accessible, responsive, and people-centered policing, particularly in fast-growing urban communities.
The ceremony was led by Brigadier General Arnold Thomas C. Ibay, regional director of PRO NIR, represented by Colonel Gilbert T. Gorero, chief of the Regional Comptrollership Service, and was graced by Mayor Greg G. Gasataya.
The standard-type police station is set to be completed within 240 days with an allocated budget of approximately P10.5 million.
Once completed, the facility is expected to improve police response time and bring essential law enforcement services closer to residents, especially in densely populated and developing areas of Bacolod City.
In his message, Ibay said the groundbreaking went beyond a ceremonial activity as it translated into concrete action the vision of “PRO NIR ALPHA: Leading the first, building the future.”
He stressed that the project lays the foundation for a police service defined by strength, responsiveness, and compassion across Bacolod City and the Negros Island Region.
Ibay further emphasized that effective policing begins with a system that supports its personnel, noting that a police station is not merely a physical structure but a place where duty, service, and public trust are built.
The PRO NIR chief also expressed gratitude to the local government, led by Mayor Gasataya, and other partners for their continued support, adding that the new station is envisioned to stand as a symbol of dedication, courage, and honorable service.
PS9 will enhance BCPO’s operational capability by providing adequate office spaces, custodial facilities, and areas dedicated to community engagement and frontline services.
The facility is also expected to increase police visibility and patrol coverage, further contributing to the sustained peace and order situation in the city.
PRO NIR reaffirmed its commitment to advancing modern policing through infrastructure development, strategic partnerships, and community-focused programs to ensure that every citizen is protected and served with integrity and professionalism.
Currently, PS9 is located in Barangay Sum-ag, Bacolod City, and will be relocated to Barangay Cabug upon completion of the new station.
Also present during the ceremony were Colonels Sandy S. Vales, chief of the Regional Logistics and Resource Development Division; Joeresty P. Coronica, BCPO city director; Police Captain Andy Ofalia, chief of Police Station 9; other police officers; and key stakeholders./PN
