PRO-NIR distributes new vehicles, firearms to boost readiness

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — The Police Regional Office–Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) has turned over vehicles, motorcycles, firearms, and equipment to various police offices to boost operational readiness and response capabilities.

Police Brig. Gen. Arnold Thomas Ibay, PRO-NIR director, led the blessing and turnover ceremony held Monday at the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office (NOCPPO) headquarters in Barangay Estefania.

The mobility assets included 24 personnel carrier 4×4 units, eight light transport vehicles, two patrol motorcycles, 220 combat helmets, and seven “Mertsav” light machine guns from the Philippine National Police (PNP) national headquarters in Camp Crame.

Police Lt. Col. Joem Malong, PRO-NIR spokesperson, said the new equipment is intended to enhance police mobility, improve tactical response, and support internal security operations across the region.

The NOCPPO, led by Police Col. Dennis Wenceslao, received 13 personnel carrier 4×4 units, six light transport vehicles, one patrol motorcycle, and two machine guns.

The Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office, headed by Police Col. Criscente Tiguelo, received five personnel carrier 4×4 units, two light transport vehicles, one patrol motorcycle, three light machine guns, and 104 combat helmets.

The Siquijor Provincial Police Office, under Police Col. Emelie Santos, received six personnel carrier 4×4 units and six combat helmets.

The Bacolod City Police Office, led by Police Col. Joeresty Coronica, was given 40 combat helmets.

The Regional Mobile Force Battalion–NIR received two light machine guns and 30 combat helmets.

In his message, Ibay emphasized that the turnover marks a significant milestone in strengthening the operational capability of the newly created PRO-NIR, underscoring the PNP’s continued commitment to equipping, protecting, and preparing its personnel.

Ibay said the assets will enable police to respond decisively to threats, maintain peace and order, and deliver prompt, reliable public service to communities.

He reminded recipients that the proper use, care, and accountability of the equipment are non-negotiable, and strict compliance with existing protocols is imperative.

“As we continue to confront evolving security challenges, may these assets serve as instruments of protection not only for our personnel, but more importantly, for the communities we serve,” Ibay said.

“Let them strengthen our resolve to perform our mandate with integrity, professionalism, and compassion,” he added.