By JEN BAYLON

The Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office (NOCPPO) is preparing for the ceremonial activation of the Police Regional Office in Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) at its headquarters in Camp Alfredo Montelibano Sr. in Bacolod City’s Barangay Villamonte this month.

“We are excited about this development as it will enhance our capacity to serve the community better,” NOCPPO spokesperson Police Captain Judesses Catalogo said in an interview.

Catalogo added that while PRO-NIR will temporarily operate from a building within the NOCPPO, plans are underway for a permanent headquarters to be constructed in Kabankalan City.

The ceremonial activation is expected to attract notable attendees from the national government, including Philippine National Police chief General Rommel Marbil and Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla.

Recruitment efforts will be launched to bring in additional police officials from Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental and Siquijor, aiming to strengthen the regional police force and ensure that they are well-equipped to address local security concerns effectively.

Based on Republic Act 12000, also known as the Negros Island Region Act, signed in June 2024, PRO-NIR will be strategically located between the three provinces of Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental and Siquijor.

This arrangement aims to ensure that police services are more accessible and efficient for residents.

The establishment of PRO-NIR is expected to streamline operations and improve public safety across the islands./JB, WDJ