By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

More than 1,800 police officers are set to be deployed in Negros Occidental as “Misa de Gallo,” or the nine-day pre-dawn novena Mass observed until Christmas Eve, begins today.

Police Major Rhojn Darrel Nigos, Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office (NOCPPO) spokesperson, said personnel from law enforcement agencies, such as the Philippine Coast Guard, the Philippine Army and the Bureau of Fire Protection will augment for the holidays.

Nigos said they have initiated the “Mata sa Kalsada” program, wherein local police commanders were ordered to strengthen police visibility on the highways, in response to the increase in road accidents recently.

He also advised motorists to check their vehicles first for their safety.

Those traveling onboard motorcycles were reminded to always wear helmets.

Police also advised them not to drive while under the influence of alcohol to avoid accidents.

On alert

Meanwhile, the Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) has also begun deployments on the streets.

BCPO director, Colonel Noel Aliño, said he had ordered police commanders to concentrate their personnel in the various churches in the city.

Aliño also denied reports that worshipers will be checked prior to being allowed inside the church.

The BCPO will also rely on the help of barangay tanods and other force multipliers in ensuring public safety and to regulate traffic amid the holiday rush.

Aliño has also directed police commanders to crack down on individuals who are using illegal firecrackers, as they cause an inconvenience for the residents, especially during the night.

He also asked the barangay captains in the city to help them in the crackdown by confiscating illegal firecrackers, including “boga.”

Aliño has already forwarded a proposal to the Sangguniang Panlungsod to pass an ordinance that would effectively ban the use of “boga” in Bacolod, as well as imposing harsh penalties on those who are caught using it.

He also called on parents to be responsible and intervene if they see their children using firecrackers./DGB, WDJ