By CESAR JOLITO III
Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson emphasized the need for proactive measures to prevent potential increases in crime incidents, citing economic pressures influenced by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Lacson stressed that maintaining peace and order remains critical to sustaining regional economic stability.
“Let us continue to ensure that the government remains responsive, because peace and order are closely tied to the economic well-being of the people,” Lacson said as he presided over the 1st Quarter Negros Island Region (NIR) Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) meeting in Negros Oriental’s Mabinay town, where officials in the region convened.
Lacson called on law enforcement agencies to heighten vigilance and strengthen coordination amid emerging economic-related security risks linked to global tensions.
He urged council members to remain united, alert and committed to safeguarding the region.
As RPOC-NIR chairperson, Lacson reaffirmed the council’s commitment to sustained collaboration among local governments and security forces to ensure a peaceful, secure and development-oriented NIR.
Mabinay Mayor Ernie Uy welcomed regional officials and law enforcement agencies, expressing appreciation for the conduct of the meeting in the municipality and underscoring local support for peace and security initiatives.
Security and law enforcement agencies presented their quarterly assessments during the session.
The Philippine National Police and the Philippine Army reported on the current state of peace and order in NIR, including updates on ongoing anti-insurgency operations and public safety efforts.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency provided an update on anti-illegal drug operations and prevention programs across the region, highlighting continuing enforcement and community-based initiatives.
Negros Occidental Provincial Planning and Development Office officer-in-charge Benja Lucasan also presented consolidated updates on peace and order programs and projects covering January 2026 to the present, reflecting ongoing provincial efforts to support regional stability.
The Department of the Interior and Local Government in NIR, led by Regional Director Lailyn Ortiz, served as the council secretariat and facilitated the coordination of the meeting./CJ, WDJ