The Police Regional Office Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR), in coordination with the Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO), has activated comprehensive security preparations for a transport strike, caravan, and protest rally scheduled for March 23, 2026, in Bacolod City. Heightened police visibility is now in effect across major routes, identified convergence areas, transport terminals, and key establishments along the planned caravan route.
Enhanced Police Deployment and Monitoring
Lieutenant Colonel Joem Malong, chief of the PRO-NIR Public Information Office, stated that police personnel have been strategically deployed to ensure public safety, manage traffic flow, and maintain peace and order throughout the event. PRO-NIR has intensified its intelligence monitoring efforts to track developments and preempt potential security concerns. Continuous coordination between intelligence units and ground commanders ensures a proactive and calibrated response to any incidents.
Standby Forces and Support Initiatives
All security personnel are in place, including Civil Disturbance Management (CDM) units placed on standby for possible augmentation. These forces are prepared for immediate deployment to address any incidents and ensure the activity remains peaceful. Additionally, patrol vehicles are ready to support the Philippine National Police's (PNP) "Libreng Sakay" initiative, which aims to assist affected commuters during the transport strike.
Coordination with Stakeholders
Malong emphasized that PRO-NIR and BCPO have maintained close coordination with organizers and transport groups to promote a lawful assembly while respecting the rights of all parties involved. Brigadier General Arnold Thomas Ibay, PRO-NIR director, affirmed their readiness to ensure public safety and the orderly conduct of the activity. He stated, "Our personnel are on the ground, our systems are in place, and our coordination with stakeholders remains strong. We call on everyone to cooperate and uphold peace and discipline throughout the event."
City Government Support and Dialogue
In a parallel effort, the City Government of Bacolod has deployed vehicles to accommodate affected commuters across various barangays. Mayor Greg Gasataya announced the implementation of the "Libre Sakay Program," which will operate from 6 a.m. until 7:30 p.m. to provide free transportation services. Furthermore, the mayor plans to hold a dialogue with public utility jeepney drivers at the Bacolod City Government Center (BCGC) to address underlying issues related to the transport strike.
PRO-NIR has assured the public of its readiness to respond to any situation and its unwavering commitment to safeguarding community welfare during this period of heightened activity.
