PRO-NIR Leads Comprehensive Relief and Dialogue Efforts in Negros Occidental Following Armed Encounter
The Police Regional Office-Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) has undertaken a series of visitation, dialogue, and assistance activities in areas impacted by a recent armed encounter in Salamanca, Toboso, Negros Occidental. These initiatives were designed to address the immediate needs of affected communities and reinforce public safety measures in the region.
Coordinated Response Across Multiple Evacuation Centers
Under the leadership of the Escalante City Police Station and Toboso Municipal Police Station, the activities were conducted in collaboration with local government units and the Philippine Army. This joint effort aimed to ensure the safety, welfare, and protection of families displaced by the incident.
Lieutenant Colonel Joem Malong, chief of the PRO-NIR Public Information Office, reported that in Escalante City, engagements were held with displaced families temporarily sheltered at Udtongan Elementary School in Barangay Udtongan. This group comprised 74 families, totaling 222 individuals, from Sitio Proper, Sitio Lawis, Sitio Dauis, and Sitio Rancho.
Additionally, visits were made to displaced families at Labi-Labi Elementary School and Salamanca Elementary School in Barangay Salamanca, Toboso. These locations housed 168 families, or 633 individuals, from the areas of Labi-Labi, Salamanca, and Toril.
Anti-Terrorism Awareness and Relief Distribution
During these engagements, police personnel conducted anti-terrorism awareness briefings. These sessions emphasized the importance of heightened vigilance, discouraged any form of support or cooperation with lawless elements, and urged evacuees to promptly report suspicious individuals or activities to authorities.
Relief assistance was a key component of the response. In Escalante City, aid was extended to provide immediate relief and comfort to affected households. In Toboso, comprehensive relief operations included the distribution of essential relief goods and the implementation of feeding programs for displaced families and residents, ensuring timely support to address their basic needs.
Strengthened Collaboration and Commitment to Public Safety
Malong highlighted that these unified efforts demonstrated strong collaboration among the Philippine National Police, local government units, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and partner agencies. This coordination facilitated the delivery of timely, compassionate, and effective support to the affected communities.
She reiterated PRO-NIR's commitment to safeguarding the public through proactive operations, strengthened partnerships, and people-centered policing. This approach aims to foster resilience, trust, and lasting peace across the Negros Island Region, especially during crises.
The PRO-NIR remains steadfast in its dedication to protecting communities and ensuring public safety, reinforcing its role in maintaining stability and security in the area.
