Authorities from the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office (NOCPPO) and the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) – Bacolod City urged the public to prioritize safety against fire hazards and scammers, which are prevalent especially during this holiday season.

NOCPPO Public Information Office (PIO) chief Police Captain Judesses Catalogo emphasized that they are maintaining safety and order in the province to ensure harmonious year-end celebrations.

“Nagapati kami na by the end of 2025, we can achieve our goal na wala major incident na mag-disrupt sa ating celebration for Christmas and New Year,” Catalogo said.

Catalogo presented safety tips against text scams, impersonation, risk-prone online banking practices, and bomb threats, noting that their agency would deploy security personnel in ports, terminal hubs and public places given the expected influx of travelers.

Meanwhile, BFP-Bacolod City Fire Marshal Supt. Jenny Mae Masip, likewise, underscored their commitment to public safety against fire-related incidents.

“BFP personnel will be on heightened alert status and on December 22 full alert status to ensure readiness and immediate response,” Masip said, sharing their “Oplan Paalala Iwas Paputok” campaign for public awareness and to promote safe practices against firecracker-related incidents.

Masip also stressed that selling firecrackers outside designated areas, including Bredco (Bacolod Real Estate Development Corporation) port, is illegal and added that they have scheduled lectures and a fire drill for firecracker retailers.

For police assistance or fire-related reports, the public can contact the national emergency hotline 911. (PIA Negros Occidental)