Negros Occidental Capitol suspends work over shooting threat

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson ordered the suspension of work at Provincial Capitol offices Wednesday afternoon after an individual allegedly threatened to shoot employees around noon.

Provincial Legal Officer Alberto Nellas Jr. said his office received reports from the Provincial Administrator’s Office and Capitol security that the individual made the threat after he was unable to retrieve requested documents because he did not have a receiving copy.

Nellas said the individual reportedly became angry and used profanities before making the alleged threat.

Capitol security personnel then escorted the individual from the building.

Nellas said officials were gathering information about the documents as part of their investigation.

“It’s a security threat, and we need to secure the premises and protect the employees. We will act accordingly,” Nellas said.

In a memorandum order issued Sept. 9, Lacson acknowledged the possible and immediate danger posed to the employees involved and other employees, officials and visitors inside the Provincial Capitol building.

Lacson said the safety, security and well-being of all provincial personnel must receive paramount consideration.

He said the individual’s actions disrupted normal operations and the delivery of public services at the Capitol.

Capitol personnel were directed to remain vigilant and strictly follow all security protocols and instructions from the proper authorities.

The Provincial Human Resource Management Office was directed to provide psychological counseling, support and assessment to employees affected by the alleged threat.

In a Facebook post, Provincial Administrator Rayfrando Diaz said he was not in his office to attend to the individual’s request at the time of the incident.

Diaz said he had been attending regular meetings from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. when the incident occurred.

He said officials were reviewing standard security procedures to prevent similar incidents.

“Taken in the light of recent mass shootings happening even in the schools, we cannot take anything for granted,” he added.

The incident followed separate shooting threats reported at schools in Negros Occidental and Bacolod City in recent months, prompting some institutions to suspend in-person classes or strengthen security measures.

Police Maj. Rondyl Tapang, commander of Police Station 2, said police were investigating the incident but declined to provide further details.

Tapang said police were waiting for the person involved to file a formal complaint.