By CESAR JOLITO III
The Police Regional Office in the Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) is set to deploy nearly 900 security personnel for the 30th Panaad sa Negros Festival, with a formal send-off ceremony scheduled at the Panaad Park and Stadium in Bacolod City’s Barangay Mansilingan on Saturday, April 11.
The ceremony, marking the official start of security operations, will be led by PRO-NIR Regional Director Arnold Thomas Ibay, alongside Police Colonel Dennis Wenceslao, director of the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office (NOCPPO).
Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson is expected to attend as guest of honor, underscoring the provincial government’s support for a safe and orderly festival.
Authorities said the deployment forms part of a comprehensive security plan anchored on intelligence-driven operations, increased police visibility, and close coordination with local government units and partner agencies.
Personnel from NOCPPO, Bacolod City Police Office, and other support units will be augmented by members of the Bureau of Fire Protection and health response teams to ensure full coverage of key areas.
More than 100 logistical assets, including patrol vehicles, motorcycles, radios, and transport trucks, will also be mobilized to boost operational efficiency and response capability.
The send-off will include a presentation of forces and equipment, as well as a ceremonial blessing of troops, signifying full readiness for the weeklong festivities.
Ibay assured the public that PRO-NIR remains prepared to address any security concerns, while urging festivalgoers to stay vigilant and cooperate with authorities by observing established safety protocols.
A temporary suspension of permits to carry firearms outside residences will be enforced in Bacolod City from April 13 to 19 as authorities tighten security for the festivities.
The directive covers the entire duration of the week-long event, which is expected to draw thousands of visitors.
Police authorities said the gun ban is a preventive measure to ensure public safety amid the large crowds anticipated during the celebration.
The weeklong “festival of all festivals,” to be participated in by all the province’s cities and municipalities, including highly urbanized Bacolod City, will kick off on Monday, April 13./CJ, WDJ