• GILBERT P. BAYORAN / THERESA MAE DULMAN
The Police Regional Office – Negros Island Region (PRO NIR) has intensified its security preparations to ensure a safe, peaceful, and orderly observance across the region.
PBrig. Gen. Arnold Thomas Ibay, PRO NIR regional director, has ordered the implementation of proactive security measures, particularly in identified convergence areas such as plazas, churches, major thoroughfares, transport terminals, and venues of commemorative activities.
Negrenses are scheduled to mark the 40th Edsa People Power Revolution on Wednesday, by holding a peaceful rally in Bacolod City.
No classes were declared in La Castellana by Mayor Añejo Nicor, as well as Isabela and Candoni, where work in government offices will be suspended, according to Mayors Miguel Angelo Yulo and Ray Ruiz.
Officials in some schools in Bacolod City also declared suspension of classes, in line with the People Power anniversary.
Ibay said security deployments will include 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 are likewise being continuously conducted to prevent any 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 added.
The PRO NIR also encourages the public to remain vigilant and immediately report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through established hotline numbers.
BACOLOD PREPARATIONS
The Bacolod City government hopes for peaceful and orderly local demonstrations as the country marks the 40th anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution today.
The Bacolod City Police Office is set to deploy 120 officers to implement security measures for the expected crowd of 5,000 participants.
The mobilization will begin with a Holy Mass presided by Bishop Patricio Buzon at the Provincial Capitol Lagoon, before proceeding to Gonzaga Street.
In accordance with the proclamation of Malacañang, February 25, will be observed as a special working day in the city.
Secretary to the Mayor Atty. Jose Marty Go confirmed that government offices and public schools will maintain regular operations and classes throughout the day.
While the public sector remains open, Go clarified that private and Catholic schools still have the prerogative to suspend classes at their own discretion.*
