900 personnel deployed for Undas security in Negros

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — The Police Regional Office–Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) will mobilize around 900 security personnel to ensure peace and order during the observance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day on Nov. 1 and 2, respectively.

These personnel include members of the Philippine National Police, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippine Coast Guard, and volunteer groups.

Police Brig. Gen. Arnold Thomas Ibay, PRO-NIR director, said they have activated comprehensive security and public safety operations to ensure a safe Undas this year.

Security measures include the establishment of police assistance desks, deployment of road safety marshals, conduct of checkpoints and visibility patrols, and activation of assistance hubs along highways and public areas to provide aid to the elderly, persons with disabilities, and travelers.

Ibay said the personnel will be deployed in 186 cemeteries, memorial parks, and columbaria; 23 bus stations; three airports; and 20 seaports from Oct. 29 to Nov. 3.

A total of 226 police assistance desks will be stationed, and 56 motorist assistance centers will be established.

Ibay reminded personnel to exercise maximum tolerance, uphold respect for human rights in all engagements, and strictly adhere to Philippine National Police operational procedures.

He also emphasized heightened public awareness during this occasion, urging the public to cooperate with law enforcement, observe security protocols, and report suspicious activities or unattended items to the nearest police station.

“I want to assure everyone that your police are always on duty — ready, responsive, and committed to your safety,” Ibay said, stressing that peace and order is not just the responsibility of the police but of every citizen who chooses to do what is right.