To ensure heightened security throughout the holidays, the Philippine National Police (PNP) in Negros Occidental has been placed on full alert.
The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) in Bacolod City will also go on full alert beginning December 22.
The PNP shifted to heightened security under “Ligtas Paskuhan 2025” to manage the anticipated surge of activities, travel, and gatherings during the holidays, PCapt. Judesses Catalogo, spokesperson for the Negros Occidental Provincial Police Office (NOCPPO), said at a press conference on Thursday, December 11.
Catalogo said the full alert status means all leaves for police personnel were cancelled effective December 1 until January 6, so all security forces can be deployed. NOCPPO has 2,300 personnel, he said.
Bacolod Fire Marshal Jenny May Masip said the BFP personnel will also go on full alert, which means the cancellation of all leaves starting December 22 until January 2.
Catalogo added that the PNP will focus on securing all sea ports, terminal hubs, church grounds, resorts, plazas, and public places where a significant upsurge of people is expected during the holidays.
The PNP will also increase police visibility at Catholic churches and plazas for the traditional Simbang Gabi dawn masses, which are set to begin on December 16.
Increased police visibility will be maintained across the province to prevent crimes, he said.*