Bacolod ready for Duterte’s arrival

(Photo Courtesy of GettyImages)

By: Dolly Yasa

BACOLOD City – Mayor Evelio Leonardia on Oct 21, 2019 said that the city is prepared for the arrival of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte this week.

The president will tentatively arrive Friday, Oct 25, Leonardia said in a press conference after the Send-Off Ceremony of more than 2,000 peacekeeping forces.

He said that with the MassKara celebration entering its peak this week, more crowds are expected in the city to witness the highlights.

With Leonardia in the presscon were Vice Mayor El Cid Familiaran, PNP regional director Brig. Gen. Rene Pamuspusan, PNP-Negros head Col. Romeo Baleros, Bacolod City Police director Col. Henry Binas and newly- designated BCPO deputy director Lt. Col. Jovie Espenido.

Leonardia also said that his office is in constant communication with Malacañang for the President’s arrival.

Leonardia recalled that no less that President Duterte has confirmed with him that he will be coming to Bacolod for the MassKara celebration.

It will be the fourth time that the President is joining the MassKara celebration since he became President.

Leonardia also thanked the Bacolod City Police Office for maintaining peace and order during the MassKara festivities that started last October 7, 2019.

So far no major incident marred the celebration, he added.

Leonardia said he hopes that the MassKara celebration will continue to be peaceful during the final week with the more 2,000 peacekeepers in the city.

On his part, Pamuspusan said that the police already have a contingency security plan for the arrival of the President.

Leonardia also called on the general public for their cooperation and support to ensure peace and order during the final week of the MassKara celebration.