PRO-NIR urges vigilance during summer travel

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — The Police Regional Office-Negros Island Region is urging residents and visitors to remain vigilant as it rolls out summer security operations and deploys more than 1,000 personnel across the region from March 29 to May 31.

The operation will be reinforced by teams from the Bureau of Fire Protection, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine Coast Guard, airport police, other uniformed services, and community advocacy groups.

“Ensuring the safety and security of our communities and visitors is our foremost priority,” said Police Brig. Gen. Arnold Thomas Ibay, PRO-NIR director.

Police Lt. Col. Joem Malong, PRO-NIR spokesperson, said personnel will be strategically deployed in high-priority areas, including places of worship, major roads, transport terminals, malls, public markets, beaches, resorts, and other convergence points across Negros Occidental, including Bacolod City, Negros Oriental, and Siquijor.

Malong said the deployment will focus not only on crime prevention but also on emergency response, crowd management, and public awareness of safety protocols.

Through the Ligtas Summer Vacation, or SUMVAC, 2026 initiative, PRO-NIR aims to maintain peace and order, safeguard lives and property, and ensure a secure, orderly, and enjoyable summer for all.

Authorities advised residents and visitors to stay alert as police assured the public they are prepared to respond to any situation.