Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson has renewed his trust and support for the provincial police force as he expressed his appreciation for their selfless and courageous service.
“I would also like to express my confidence and trust to the Negros Occidental Police. I know that together, we can make Negros Occidental a place where crimes are prevented, where peace and order are upheld, where basic services are delivered, and most of all, where people are secure,” Lacson said.
He delivered his message during the New Year’s Call of the officials of Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office (NOCPPO) led by provincial director, Col. Romeo Baleros, at the Capitol Social Hall recently.
“As an advocate of consultative leadership, I want to assure you that the provincial government will do its best to support the programs of the Philippine National Police (PNP), to formulate together with the stakeholders more ways to progress and improve,” he added.
Moreover, Lacson cited the need for police visibility in all 31 cities and municipalities of the province, saying police presence in the community creates trust and connection to the people.
He said that for policing activities to be effective in the localities, proper coordination among the police force, the local government units (LGUs), and the citizenry is imperative.
“For more than the promotion of law, order and public safety, the PNP is also mandated to assist our LGUs in the delivery of public services,” he added.
Meanwhile, Baleros acknowledged Lacson’s concern on the need to improve police visibility operations, although he noted that this could be hampered by insufficient police personnel.
“(We have) shortage of manpower,” he said.
In Negros Occidental, which has a population of more than two million, the ideal number of police personnel should be about 4,000, compared to only 1,900 at present.
Still, Baleros said, NOCPPO is coping by engaging the assistance of non-government organizations and force multipliers, such as village watchmen and members of the Barangay Police Action Team.
“We are also coordinating with the LGUs for support to the PNP in implementing different approaches to minimize, if not totally eradicate, crimes,” he added.
In 2019, NOCPPO reported a notable decrease in index crime volume of 22.35 percent among the eight focus crimes — murder, homicide, physical injury, rape, robbery, theft, car and motorcycle theft.
(Nanette Guadalquiver pna via ndb)