A total of 74 police vehicles will provide free rides today to commuters, who might be affected by the transport strike scheduled today, March 19, the Police Regional Office-Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) said.
In Bacolod, four patrol vehicles will be deployed by the city police, Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office (PPO), 32 vehicles; Negros Oriental PPO, 28; Siquijor PPO, six patrol vehicles; and four vehicles from the Regional Mobile Force Battalion.
“We are fully prepared to assist our commuters during this transport strike,” P/Brig. General Arnold Thomas Ibay, PRO-NIR director, said in a statement. “Our libreng sakay initiative, supported by 74 police vehicles, reflects our commitment to public service. We assure everyone that our personnel remain on full alert to ensure safety, security, and order throughout the region.”
He added that regular police duties and functions will also continue as normal, with heightened visibility and deployment to maintain peace, order, and public safety across NIR.
The Philippine National Police said it is also coordinating with concerned government agencies and local government units to support “libreng sakay” initiatives to help stranded passengers reach their destinations.
It assured the public of its full preparedness for the scheduled transport strike. “We respect the right to peaceful assembly, but we will not allow any disruption that will endanger public safety.”
Commuters are advised to plan their travel ahead, and avail of government-supported transport options, where available, the PNP said. ||
