• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson called on the Philippine National Police (PNP) to ensure a peaceful and successful midterm elections on May 12.
This was stressed by Lacson yesterday during the New Year’s call of the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office (NOCPPO) command staff, chiefs of police and national support units led by PCol. Rainerio de Chavez at the Capitol Social Hall in Bacolod City.
“This past year has certainly not been without its challenges, but it has also shown the strength of our resolve as public servants. We have overcome challenges together, and through collaboration and teamwork, we have continued to make strides in maintaining peace and order across our province,” the governor said.
He added: “Let us remember the importance of community policing, engaging with the people we serve, building trust, and working hand in hand with our communities to create safe spaces for everyone”.
Lacson said “it is through these meaningful connections that we strengthen our communities and their ties with the government”.
In his speech, De Chavez said “this year comes another tougher task (for the PNP), which is the midterm elections”, following the two eruptions of Mt. Kanlaon last year.
He asked for the same collaboration and stronger partnership from the public to make sure that the upcoming election process would be peaceful and successful.
Moreover, Lacson said “we will make great strides toward creating a province, where law and order are upheld, and justice is accessible for all.”
The governor also assured the NOCPPO of the provincial government’s support to all their programs and projects.
Last year, NOCPPO recorded 3,885 crime incidents, with a reduction of 13.11 percent, compared to 4.471 crime incidents reported in 2023. | GB
