Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson yesterday urged law enforcement agencies to heighten vigilance, strengthen coordination, and be proactive in preventing a rise in economic-related crimes in the region, citing increased economic pressures due to the conflict in the Middle East.
Lacson delivered his message as he presided over the 1st Quarter Meeting of the Regional Peace and Order Council – Negros Island Region (RPOC-NIR), held March 27 and hosted by the municipality of Mabinay, in Negros Oriental.
Mabinay Mayor Ernie Uy welcomed the attendees of the meeting, expressing his appreciation for the presence of regional officials and law enforcement agencies in his municipality.
Lacson called on the council to remain united, alert, and committed to keeping the NIR peaceful and secure.
“Let us continue to ensure that the government remains responsive, because peace and order are closely tied to the economic well-being of the people,” he said.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Philippine Army presented their respective reports on the state of peace and order and public safety in the NIR, as well as updates on anti-insurgency efforts. Meanwhile, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) reported on the status of illegal drug use prevention and law enforcement.
Negros Occ. OIC-PPDO Benja Lucasan presented the consolidated updates of the peace and order PPAs of the province for the first quarter of this year (January 2026 to date).
DILG NIR RD Lailyn Ortiz served as the council’s secretariat.
As chairperson of the RPOC-NIR, Gov. Lacson leads the council in setting peace, security, and development strategies for the region.*
