• RICHARD T. CABALLERO JR.
High-ranking officials and the 31 chiefs of police (COPs) of the Negros Occidental Provincial Police Office (NOcPPO) convened at the Capitol Social Hall alongside Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson for the New Year’s Call 2026, a ceremonial reaffirmation of law enforcement’s commitment.
In his remarks, Lacson emphasized that the event was more than a customary courtesy, it was a renewed pledge of the police force and the provincial government’s dedication to public service, partnership, and the collective responsibility of safeguarding the people of Negros Occidental.
“Rest assured that the provincial government remains a steadfast partner in advancing not only the rule of law but also the welfare of our police force,” Lacson assured.
This gathering marked Provincial Director PCol. Dennis Wenceslao’s first New Year’s Call as head of the NOcPPO.
Lacson had appointed Wenceslao to lead the Negros Occidental Police following the relief of former Director PCol. Rainero de Chavez, who was reassigned to the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) at the national level.
Lacson expressed unwavering confidence in law enforcement under Wenceslao’s leadership, stating, “I am confident that with your continued dedication and our sustained collaboration, we can face the year ahead with resolve and optimism.”
UNWAVERING TRUST IN PNP
Lacson reiterated his full trust and confidence in the law enforcement agencies despite ongoing challenges faced by the Philippine National Police (PNP), including the killings of 3 policemen and a civilian by PSSg. Bonifacio Saycon Jr. on January 9.
“That incident also serves as a stark reminder to all Provincial Directors across the country to take decisive action and ensure their officers adhere strictly to police ethics, even when in civilian attire,” he stressed.
Meanwhile, Wenceslao acknowledged that the shooting incident in Sibulan cast a shadow over the accomplishments achieved by law enforcement throughout 2025. However, he assured the public that all uniformed personnel in Negros Occidental are expected to uphold the highest standards of conduct.
“We will continue to remind our personnel to behave properly, whether in uniform or civilian attire. I assure the public and all our COPs that we will be vigilant and prepared for any situation,” the director vowed. He also noted that his administration has been providing spiritual guidance to personnel to foster discipline and prevent such incidents.*
