By CESAR JOLITO III

More than 1,000 personnel of the Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO), along with members of the Bureau of Fire Protection and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, will begin receiving a P2,000 monthly allowance following the approval of a new incentive program by the city government.

Mayor Greg Gasataya announced that the additional allowance will take effect this year as part of the local government’s continued effort to strengthen public safety services and recognize the work of uniformed personnel tasked with maintaining peace and order in the city.

“You all carry the weight of our safety, for which we are deeply thankful,” Gasataya said, emphasizing the city’s commitment to supporting frontliners in law enforcement and emergency response.

The new benefit comes on top of Bacolod City’s annual P20.5 million allocation for BCPO peace and order programs.

The funding supports a range of initiatives, including police mobility improvement, anti-criminality operations and enhanced crime prevention and crime-solving efforts.

BCPO Director Police Colonel Joeresty Coronica welcomed the move, describing the allowance as a significant morale booster for police personnel.

“This is a big boost that could raise the morale and welfare of our policemen,” Coronica said, noting that the city’s assistance has consistently helped sustain police operations, particularly in repair, maintenance and logistical requirements./CJ, WDJ