BACOLOD City — More than 1,600 police personnel have been deployed across the Negros Island Region (NIR) to ensure a safe, orderly, and peaceful opening of classes on June 8, the Police Regional Office-Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) announced.
A total of 1,612 police officers have been assigned to schools, major roads, transportation hubs, and other strategic locations as part of the police force’s comprehensive security and public safety operations under the annual “Balik Eskwela” program.
The deployment aims to safeguard students, teachers, school personnel, parents, and commuters as learners return to classrooms for School Year 2026-2027.
Police personnel will man Police Assistance Desks, conduct foot and mobile patrols, and provide security coverage in both public and private schools throughout the region. They will also assist in traffic management, monitor areas with high student activity, and provide immediate assistance in emergencies.
PRO-NIR Acting Regional Director Brig. Gen. Romano V. Cardiño said the heightened police presence reflects the organization’s commitment to creating a safe and secure environment for learners and educators.
“As we welcome another school year, PRO-NIR stands united with our educators, parents, and communities in ensuring that every learner can pursue education in a safe, secure, and peaceful environment,” Cardiño said.
“The deployment of 1,612 police personnel reflects our unwavering commitment to protect our students, support our teachers, and maintain public safety. We want every child to enter the classroom with confidence, every parent to have peace of mind, and every school to remain a safe space where learning and opportunity can thrive,” he added.
Aside from school security operations, police officers have been directed to coordinate closely with school administrators, local government units, and partner agencies to address security concerns and respond swiftly to any untoward incidents.
PRO-NIR also urged the public to remain vigilant and immediately report suspicious activities or safety concerns to police officers stationed in schools or to the nearest police station.
With classes now officially underway, authorities said all deployed personnel remain on standby to ensure a smooth and incident-free return to school across Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, and Siquijor.
The regional police force reiterated that maintaining a safe learning environment remains a top priority as students begin another academic year under the Balik Eskwela 2026 program./PN
