NIR deploys 1,500 cops for Araw ng Kagitingan observance

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — The Police Regional Office–Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) deployed nearly 1,500 personnel to ensure a peaceful and orderly observance of Araw ng Kagitingan across the region Thursday.

Police Lt. Col. Joem Malong, PRO-NIR spokesperson, said personnel were strategically positioned in key areas including major thoroughfares, transportation hubs, public places, and venues of commemorative activities.

The deployment included fixed police visibility posts, motorcycle and mobile patrol units, traffic assistance personnel, and checkpoints and border control points.

Specialized units — including Civil Disturbance Management (CDM) contingents and the Reactionary Standby Support Force (RSSF) — were placed on standby to respond to contingencies.

Drone operators provided aerial surveillance for real-time monitoring and situational awareness in support of ground operations.

The PRO-NIR encouraged the public to remain vigilant, cooperate with authorities, and promptly report suspicious activities.

The regional office also coordinated with local government units (LGUs), partner agencies, and stakeholders in Negros Occidental, Bacolod City, Negros Oriental, and Siquijor for the implementation of security plans.

Araw ng Kagitingan, or Day of Valor, is a national holiday observed every April 9, commemorating the fall of Bataan in 1942 and honoring Filipino and American soldiers who fought and died during World War II.

Meanwhile, the Land Transportation Office–Negros Island Region (LTO-NIR) recorded minimal major road incidents during the Holy Week observance.

LTO-NIR director Jeck Conlu credited law enforcement personnel, the Highway Patrol Group, the Philippine Coast Guard, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, and local government units for their unified efforts in safeguarding travelers and motorists during the Lenten season.

The agency’s Oplan Biyaheng Ayos: Semana Santa and Summer Vacation 2026 campaign employed proactive and technology-driven strategies, including mandatory vehicle inspections, rigorous terminal checks, and driver drug testing.

The LTO-NIR urged road users to stay vigilant, observe traffic laws, ensure vehicle roadworthiness, and practice responsible driving.

It also called on the public to continue supporting road safety initiatives, noting that shared responsibility is essential to sustaining safe and orderly travel across the region.