Western Visayas, NIR police ready for Trillion Peso March

By Jennifer P. Rendon and Glazyl M. Jopson

The Police Regional Offices (PRO) in Western Visayas and the Negros Island Region have expressed readiness for security preparations ahead of the “Trillion Peso March,” a nationwide protest scheduled for Sunday, Nov. 30, that is expected to draw hundreds of thousands of participants.

PRO–Western Visayas director Police Brig. Gen. Josefino Ligan said field commanders have been instructed to deploy personnel along rally routes, assembly points, public plazas, transport hubs, and government facilities.

Ligan did not provide the exact number of police personnel to be deployed.

He said all police units are prepared to ensure the peaceful, safe, and orderly conduct of the rallies.

Authorities have monitored at least three groups — one in Iloilo City and two in Roxas City, Capiz — expected to lead the activity organized amid rising public outcry over alleged government corruption.

Ligan said civil disturbance management units are in place in every city and provincial police office, as well as at the regional headquarters.

“Our focus is to maintain peace and order while respecting the public’s right to assemble and express their views,” Ligan said.

A comprehensive security plan has been activated regionwide with CDM units, mobile forces, intelligence teams, anti-crime operatives, and traffic enforcement groups.

Coordination with local government units, rally organizers, volunteers, and other law enforcement agencies has also been intensified to prevent disruptions and ensure orderly crowd movement.

Ligan urged rally participants to remain disciplined and avoid bringing prohibited items.

In Bacolod City, PRO–NIR spokesperson Police Lt. Joem Malong said they will deploy about 2,000 personnel.

Malong said security and public safety plans have been activated in coordination with LGUs, emergency responders, and partner agencies in anticipation of large crowds from various sectors, advocacy groups, and youth organizations.

She said the number of personnel will be sufficient to carry out measures for crowd management, traffic flow, emergency response, and the monitoring of potential security concerns.

PRO–NIR director Police Brig. Gen. Arnold Thomas Ibay said the police remain committed to ensuring that the activity is conducted safely, peacefully, and orderly.

“We respect the people’s right to peaceful assembly, and our duty is to protect that right while safeguarding the welfare of the entire community,” Ibay said.

He called on participants to exercise responsibility and cooperate to help maintain peace and civility during the event.

The Trillion Peso March is an offshoot of the anti-corruption protest held on Sept. 21, which also marked the 53rd anniversary of the declaration of martial law.