The Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) reported zero-crime incidents during the MassKara Festival this year, which it described as generally peaceful despite the torrential rain caused by Tropical Storm Kristine.
This was attained through close coordination with the city government and Bacolod Yuhum Foundation, enhanced by police visibility, efficient crowd management and firm implementation of the rules and regulations of the festival, a press release from the BCPO said on Monday, Oct. 28.
Their anti-illegal drug operations during the festival, resulted in the arrest of 55 individuals and confiscation of illegal drugs worth P33,097,258, with a total weight of 4,867.39 grams, the press release also said.
“We attribute this year’s success to the unwavering support of our community and stakeholders, as well as the commitment of our police officers who worked tirelessly round the clock,” Col. Joeresty Coronica, Bacolod police director, said.
He thanked the police personnel for their dedication to their mandates to ensure a peaceful MassKara celebration.
At least 1,859 joint security personnel were deployed to secure the 45th MassKara Festival, with augmentations from the Western Visayas Police Regional Office.
The security forces included 1,199 policemen and 330 personnel from other law enforcement agencies, such as the Bureau of Fire Protection, the Philippine Coast Guard, and the Philippine Army.
Also part of the contingent are 230 force multipliers and 100 personnel of the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office and rescue groups.*