NIR Opens School Year with Peaceful, Orderly Start

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — The Police Regional Office–Negros Island Region reported a smooth and incident-free school opening on Monday.

Police Brig. Gen. Arnold Thomas Ibay, PRO–NIR director, said there were no untoward incidents in Negros Occidental, including Bacolod City, as well as in Negros Oriental and Siquijor.

Ibay noted that 85% of police personnel were deployed across the region to ensure student safety and assist with traffic flow.

“This is in accordance with the directive of PNP chief Maj. Gen. Nicolas Torre III to intensify police visibility,” Ibay said, adding that the first day proceeded without major issues.

Some areas experienced heavier traffic, particularly in Bacolod City, but the Bacolod Traffic Management Division deployed enforcers to manage congestion.

The Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office stationed personnel in strategic locations, including schools, roads and transport terminals.

Police Capt. Judesses Catalogo, Nocppo public information officer, said security coverage for this year’s Balik Eskwela was successful.

The Bacolod City Police Office credited the peaceful class opening to proactive personnel deployment and public vigilance.

Officers were posted in key school areas to manage traffic, assist students and parents, and maintain order.

Police visibility patrols were intensified in identified convergence points such as public and private schools and universities.

BCPO assured the public that security and traffic management operations will continue in the following days.

The Department of Education–Negros Island Region officially launched the 2025–2026 school year, with thousands of learners returning to school in both coastal and upland areas.

RJ Paglomutan, Education Program Specialist II and spokesperson for DepEd-Bacolod, said 102,000 learners have enrolled so far.

He reported no significant incidents on the first day, noting that schools managed minor challenges internally.

Enrollment remains ongoing, and the division is targeting to match or surpass last year’s total of 120,000 students.

DepEd–NIR Regional Director Dr. Ramir Uytico commended school leaders and field officials for their readiness and commitment.

“We are once again called to nurture minds, inspire hearts, and fulfill our mission of delivering quality education to every Filipino learner,” Uytico said.

He urged teachers to start strong with engaging and meaningful lessons.

“This is how we demonstrate our resolve – not only through presence, but through purposeful action,” he said.

“As one DepEd Negros Island Region, we must continue to build schools that are safe, inclusive and learner-centered.”

“Let us be steadfast in our service, grounded in our values, and driven by the goal of uplifting every child entrusted to our care,” Uytico added.