By CESAR JOLITO III
Security forces and local government units have intensified humanitarian and security operations in communities affected by a recent armed encounter in Barangay Salamanca in Negros Occidental’s Toboso town, as hundreds of families continue to receive assistance and psychosocial support in evacuation centers.
The Police Regional Office in the Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR), in coordination with the Philippine National Police, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and concerned local government units, conducted a series of visitation, dialogue sessions and relief distribution activities in both Escalante City and Toboso following the incident.
According to PRO-NIR Public Information Office chief Lt. Colonel Joem Malong, police personnel together with partner agencies visited displaced residents currently sheltered in evacuation centers, ensuring their immediate needs and security concerns are addressed.
In Escalante City, authorities engaged with 74 families composed of 222 individuals from Sitios Proper, Lawis, Dauis, and Rancho who are temporarily staying at Udtongan Elementary School in Barangay Udtongan.
Meanwhile, in Toboso, assistance was extended to 168 families or 633 individuals from Labi-Labi, Salamanca and Toril who are currently sheltered at Labi-Labi Elementary School and Salamanca Elementary School in Barangay Salamanca.
During the engagements, police units also conducted anti-terrorism awareness briefings, urging evacuees to remain vigilant, avoid engagement or support for lawless elements, and immediately report suspicious activities to authorities.
Relief operations were likewise stepped up, with food packs and essential supplies distributed to affected families.
Feeding programs were also implemented to help address the immediate needs of displaced residents.
Malong said the coordinated response underscores the strong collaboration among security forces and local government units in delivering timely and compassionate assistance to communities affected by the conflict.
He added that PRO-NIR remains committed to a people-centered approach to policing, emphasizing both public safety and humanitarian support, especially in crisis situations.
Authorities assured residents that security operations in the area continue, alongside sustained relief efforts aimed at helping affected families recover and return to normalcy./CJ, WDJ