Bacolod City – The conduct of numerous security checkpoints in Negros is not good for tourism, especially among foreigners, admitted Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson.
More than 300 Army soldiers are now beefing up police in conducting checkpoints in 21 areas of the 2nd and 3rd districts of Negros Oriental, as well as in the pursuit of the remaining suspects behind the assassination of Negros Oriental Gov. Roel Degamo.
Lacson said it is the judgement call of Defense Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. to bring in more troops, to carry out the order of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., in order to suppress violence in Negros Oriental.
“Hopefully, they can resolve the issue on the suspects, that have not been arrested yet,” he pointed out.
“The earlier government authorities apprehend the suspects, the better for Negros Island,” Lacson, who was designated chairperson of the Western Visayas Regional Peace and Order Council, stressed.
Lacson further said that Negros Occidental is open for tourists. “We just have to be prepared, especially resort owners, to accept more visitors,” he added.
The remains of Gov. Degamo was brought yesterday to his hometown in Siaton, Negros Oriental, and is scheduled to be buried on March 16 at their family’s private mausoleum.
His town mates, who lined the streets to pay their last respects, displayed streamers and placards calling for immediate justice for his death. (Gilbert Bayoran via TVDS)