Undas in Negros Occidental Peaceful, Crime Rate Drops

By Glazyl Y. Masculino

BACOLOD CITY – The Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office (NOCPPO) and the Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) reported a generally peaceful observance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, locally known as “Undas,” on Nov. 1 and 2, respectively.

According to crime statistics, NOCPPO recorded a 12% reduction in crimes from Oct. 31 to Nov. 2, with 22 incidents logged this year compared to 25 incidents during the same period last year.

The provincial police attributed this reduction to heightened security measures, including Police Assistance Desks (PADs), beat patrollers, road safety marshals, traffic personnel, and covert police personnel.

Police Col. Rainerio De Chavez, NOCPPO director, commended city and municipal police stations for maintaining peace and order throughout the province, with only minor incidents reported. He also expressed gratitude to the public for their cooperation, which contributed to the generally peaceful outcome over the long weekend.

BCPO director, Police Col. Joeresty Coronica, noted that deploying 250 personnel during the weekend helped ensure a safe and orderly environment.

BCPO implemented a comprehensive security plan, which included strategic deployments, 24-hour monitoring, and assistance hubs in 14 cemeteries for easy access to police services.

The BCPO also thanked the community for positively responding to safety and security advisories.

Meanwhile, soldiers and police officers in the province paid tribute to their colleagues who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty. Army units, along with city and municipal police stations, held solemn ceremonies, lighting candles and offering prayers to honor their fallen comrades on All Souls’ Day.

In a statement, Lt. Col. Arnel Calaoagan, commander of the Army’s 79th Infantry Battalion, affirmed that the sacrifices of fallen soldiers would always inspire their commitment to peace and stability in the Negros Island Region (NIR) and the entire country.

“We honor the legacy of our fallen comrades, whose courage and dedication inspire us daily,” Calaoagan said.

Calaoagan urged military personnel to continue working with courage, inspired by the sacrifices of their colleagues. “Let us not put their sacrifices in vain,” he added.

Police Col. De Chavez also honored the fallen police officers, describing their selfless service as a testament to their commitment to public welfare.

“Their courage, integrity, and dedication to their work—prioritizing public safety over their own welfare—continue to be remembered and honored even after their passing,” De Chavez said.

The provincial police also held a candle-lighting ceremony and offered prayers for their fallen colleagues on Nov. 1, which NOCPPO said exemplified community unity and support for the police, motivating the Philippine National Police (PNP) to further their commitment to peace and order.