Two Negros Occidental LGUs suspend classes for EDSA anniversary

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY – Two local government units in Negros Occidental suspended classes Wednesday to mark the 40th anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution, while police heightened security across the Negros Island Region.

In Isabela, Mayor Miguel Angelo Yulo ordered the suspension of work in all government offices and classes at all levels in public and private schools on Feb. 25. Essential offices and agencies delivering basic and emergency services remained operational.

In Hinigaran, Mayor Mary Grace Arceo issued an executive order likewise suspending work in government offices and classes at all levels in public and private schools. Essential services remained open to serve the public.

The Hinigaran local government said the day was set aside for reflection on the values of courage, unity, and democracy shown during the revolution.

“It is a chance for our community to pause, remember, and honor the sacrifices that secured our freedoms,” it said. “May this moment renew our commitment to responsible citizenship and love of country.”

Meanwhile, the University of St. La Salle in Bacolod City organized an activity dubbed “EDSA@40” coinciding with Social Awareness Month, hosting reflections and exhibits to encourage students to understand the past and act with integrity.

“At USLS, we stand for courage, unity, and the spirit of standing up for what is right,” the university said.

USLS described the People Power Revolution as a part of history that can never be forgotten. “Its spirit of courage and unity lives on, 40 years and beyond. The lessons it gave us remain close to our present. We remember it, honor it, and carry it forward,” it added.

AT La Consolacion College-Bacolod, classes were held only in the morning to give way to commemorative activities, including a prayer service, with dismissal at noon.

The school said it continues to uphold the values of courage, unity, faith, and peaceful solidarity that defined EDSA and shape students’ responsibilities as active and discerning citizens.

HEIGHTENED SECURITY

The Police Regional Office-Negros Island Region intensified security preparations for a safe, peaceful, and orderly observance of the People Power Revolution across the region.

Police Brig. Gen. Arnold Thomas Ibay, PRO-NIR director, directed all provincial directors, police chiefs, and force commanders to implement proactive security measures, particularly in identified convergence areas such as plazas, churches, major thoroughfares, transport terminals, and venues of commemorative activities.

Security deployments included increased police visibility, foot and mobile patrols, establishment of Police Assistance Desks, and close coordination with local government units, event organizers, and other partner agencies.

Intelligence monitoring and threat assessments were also continuously conducted to prevent potential security threats.

“We honor the spirit of EDSA by ensuring that the rights of our people to peacefully assemble and commemorate this historic event are protected, while maintaining public safety and order,” Ibay said.

The PRO-NIR also encouraged the public to remain vigilant and immediately report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through established hotline numbers.