Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson stressed the need for police visibility in all towns and cities of Negros Occidental in the midst of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
“The presence of policemen in the community creates trust and connection to our people, especially in this time when our people need more reassurance,” Lacson said, in his speech during the New Year courtesy call of the Negros Occidental police officials at the Social Hall of the Capitol in Bacolod City today, January 21.
Col. Romy Palgue, Negros Occidental police director, was joined by the chiefs of police of the towns and cities of Negros Occidental during the New Year’s call.
Lacson said that while it is true that Negros Occidental is considerably peaceful compared to most provinces, “we cannot deny the fact that we are faced with problems involving criminality, illegal drugs and insurgency.”
In dealing with these concerns, the police task involves the legal use of force to implement the law, he said.
“Police work requires a great balancing act between law enforcement and the preservation of liberty. Thus, I urge all of you to be not just legal troops but to be moral troops as well,” he said.
He also called on the police to continue building a God-centered and service-oriented Philippine National Police.
“I know that together we can make Negros Occidental a place where peace and order are upheld, where public services are delivered and where people are secure and protected,” he said.
The governor also thanked the police for their selfless service as frontliners in the fight against COVID-19, which at times were rendered beyond the limits of endurance.
“When borders were closed and the imposition of community quarantines were set, the PNP took the helm of enforcing mobility restrictions and health protocols to ensure the safety of millions of Filipinos,” he pointed out.*