PRO NIR deploys 1,000 for Holy Week

BACOLOD CITY — The Police Regional Office Negros Island Region will deploy over 1000 police personnel across the region from March 29 to April 5, 2026, to ensure a peaceful, orderly and secure Holy Week observance.

The regional police office said the operation reflects its continuing focus on public safety and on preserving the solemnity of the Lenten season, one of the country’s most widely observed religious periods, when thousands of devotees travel, gather and join religious activities.

A coordinated, regionwide deployment has been organized using personnel from NOcPPO, NOrPPO, SPPO and BCPO to provide security coverage throughout the Holy Week period.

Police personnel will be stationed in places of worship, major thoroughfares, transportation hubs and terminals, commercial establishments and other areas of convergence to boost visibility, strengthen public safety and allow faster response to incidents.

PRO NIR said it has also intensified coordination with force multipliers, local government units and other partner agencies to reinforce security coverage and crowd management, especially in high-traffic areas and pilgrimage sites.

Assistance desks and police help stations will also be set up to provide immediate aid and information to the public.

PBGEN Arnold Thomas C. Ibay, regional director of PRO NIR, said, “As we enter this sacred season of reflection and faith, our police presence goes beyond the prevention of crime. It is our commitment to stand with our communities, to safeguard every family, and to ensure that every devotee can observe Holy Week in peace, dignity, and security. We are here not only as protectors, but as partners in preserving the solemnity and meaning of this holy occasion.”

As part of the security measures, the public has been advised to remain vigilant, follow safety protocols, secure their homes before traveling and immediately report suspicious activities to the nearest police station.