Norppo awaits formal directive on DILG public road prohibitions

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — The Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office (Norppo) has expressed support for the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) directive prohibiting public drinking in streets, alleys, and roadside areas, including the setting up of tables along public roads.

In a statement, Norppo said the directive reinforces the importance of maintaining peace, order, and public safety — values aligned with the Philippine National Police’s (PNP) commitment to uphold discipline among civilians and within its own ranks.

Police Capt. Stephen Polinar, Norppo spokesperson, said in a phone interview Wednesday that the office is awaiting an official memorandum on the directive’s implementation before taking enforcement action.

In the meantime, Polinar said they will begin warning the public about the prohibitions, which include drinking alcohol on streets and other related conduct.

The DILG directive also prohibits shirtless individuals from roaming the streets and the use of videoke machines after 10 p.m.

“Hindi pa namin alam as to what extent ang powers ng PNP. Kung ano dapat iimplement and kung hanggang saan iyong limitations,” Polinar said.

While acknowledging that liquor establishments are an economic driver — particularly along the famous Rizal Boulevard in Dumaguete City — Polinar said the office is currently acting on initial verbal instructions regarding the prohibitions.

He added that they are also reviewing whether existing local ordinances can support the DILG directive, so that officers issuing reprimands will know what sanctions to impose.

“We are waiting for the actual memorandum to determine the penalties. We cannot act without due process — if there is no law, we cannot just arrest anyone,” Polinar said.

“We want to make sure we don’t overstep, so we are also working with the local government units (LGUs) on what steps to take,” he added.

All Norppo personnel were reminded to strictly adhere to PNP Ethical Standards, which mandate high standards of morality, decency, and professionalism at all times.

As public servants, police officers are expected to serve as role models in the community and exemplify proper conduct both on and off duty.

Norppo assured the public of its continued efforts to enforce laws and local ordinances while promoting responsible behavior toward a safer and more orderly environment.