By CESAR JOLITO III
The Police Regional Office in the Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) reported a generally peaceful and orderly New Year celebration across the region, citing the effective implementation of Ligtas Paskuhan.
According to PRO-NIR, heightened police visibility and strategic deployment played a key role in maintaining public safety during the holiday season.
More than 1,900 police personnel were deployed daily, augmented by partner agencies and advocacy groups, and positioned in transport terminals, tourist destinations, places of worship, and major convergence areas.
Firecracker-related incidents were notably minimal, as police closely monitored 36 designated firecracker zones in each local government unit and 32 community fireworks display areas.
PRO-NIR reported zero deaths and no fire incidents attributed to fireworks and pyrotechnics during the period.
Authorities also confiscated 23,415 prohibited firecracker items, underscoring the intensified enforcement of safety regulations.
Road safety measures were likewise strengthened through the establishment of motorist assistance hubs and increased patrols.
While 58 road crash incidents were recorded, police said timely intervention and visibility helped prevent more serious outcomes.
No stray bullets
In terms of peace and order, PRO-NIR noted that crime incidents remained manageable, with no stray bullet incidents recorded during the New Year revelry — an outcome attributed to the sustained campaign against indiscriminate firing.
Law enforcement operations conducted alongside holiday security efforts resulted in the arrest of 91 illegal drug suspects, 101 wanted persons and 34 individuals involved in illegal gambling, as well as the seizure of 37 loose firearms.
PRO-NIR director Brigadier General Arnold Thomas Ibay commended police personnel and the public for their cooperation, saying the peaceful celebration reflected both effective policing and responsible public behavior.
“The generally peaceful New Year celebration in the Negros Island Region is a clear manifestation of our police officers’ dedication and the strong cooperation of our communities,” Ibay said.
“This outcome reflects our shared commitment to safety and discipline as we welcome the New Year,” he added.
PRO-NIR said it remains committed to sustaining peace and order in 2026, reiterating that public safety is a shared responsibility between law enforcers and the community.
PRO-NIR spokesperson Lt. Colonel Joem Malong said public safety was ensured through heightened visibility, strategic deployment, and inter-agency coordination.
She noted that crime incidents were manageable, and no stray bullet cases were recorded — evidence of the effectiveness of the anti-indiscriminate firing campaign./CJ, WDJ