PRO-NIR reports zero incidents at Trillion Peso March

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY – The Police Regional Office–Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) reported zero crime incidents during a protest against corruption held on Sunday, Sept. 21, marking the 53rd anniversary of the declaration of Martial Law.

The event drew 3,350 participants in Negros Occidental, including Bacolod City, and Negros Oriental, and was noted for its peaceful conduct.

Police Brig. Gen. Arnold Thomas Ibay, PRO-NIR director, lauded the discipline and cooperation of the rallyists, crediting them as key to maintaining order and safety throughout the region.

According to PRO-NIR, no untoward incidents were recorded during the assemblies, which they described as calm and incident-free.

The regional police emphasized that the peaceful outcome reflected the non-violent character of the people of Negros and Siquijor.

They attributed this success to effective security planning, strong human rights advocacy, proactive coordination with local government units (LGUs), and the cooperation of community stakeholders.

Ibay also expressed gratitude to the 1,879 police personnel deployed across the region.

Officers were strategically assigned to rally sites, key roads, and high-traffic areas to maximize visibility and ensure a quick response when needed.

He also acknowledged the vital support of LGUs, church groups, and partner agencies in the overall success of the event.

The regional office said the core objectives of the security operations—preserving peace and order, ensuring public safety, and protecting the constitutional rights of citizens—were fully achieved.

The agency emphasized that close coordination, strong intelligence monitoring, and the public’s compliance with safety protocols were critical in maintaining calm throughout the day.

“This outcome reflects the effectiveness of the security measures in place,” Ibay stated, highlighting the importance of public cooperation and respect for authority in ensuring peaceful demonstrations.

They reaffirmed their commitment to uphold peace, public safety, the rule of law, and the rights of all citizens in Negros Island and Siquijor.

Bacolod City Mayor Greg Gasataya said he was thankful the protests were peaceful on Sunday, which were attended by different sectors.

Gasataya acknowledged the call of everyone for an investigation and for justice amid the flooding controversy in the country.

“Ever since my stand about flood control, all projects implemented by the national government are part of the comprehensive drainage masterplan, which means these all underwent a process and are being implemented by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH),” he said.