By CESAR JOLITO III
The Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office (NOCPPO) renewed its commitment to public safety and cooperation with the provincial government during a New Year’s Call on Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson at the Provincial Capitol yesterday.
Led by NOCPPO Director Colonel Dennis Wenceslao, the delegation included chiefs of police from the cities and municipalities across the province.
During the courtesy call, the NOCPPO reaffirmed its support for the provincial government’s programs, particularly initiatives aimed at maintaining peace and order and ensuring public safety.
Lacson said the annual activity goes beyond tradition, serving as a reaffirmation of the shared responsibility of the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the provincial government in public service and community protection.
“The New Year’s Call reflects our continuing partnership and collective responsibility in safeguarding the people of Negros Occidental,” Lacson said.
The governor also acknowledged the police force’s significant role not only in crime prevention but also in the province’s response to recent calamities, noting the PNP’s involvement in rescue, relief and security operations during emergencies.
Lacson urged police officers to continue strengthening public trust and working closely with communities, stressing that lasting peace and security are achieved through cooperation rather than force.
He reiterated his confidence in the leadership of Wenceslao and assured the NOCPPO of the provincial government’s full support, including efforts that promote both effective law enforcement and the welfare of police personnel.
“Together, we will ensure that Negros Occidental remains a province where people feel secure, where the rule of law is upheld, and where progress is protected by peace,” Lacson said.
The NOCPPO, for its part, expressed its commitment to sustaining strong coordination with the provincial government as it carries out its mandate to maintain peace and order throughout Negros Occidental./CJ, WDJ