Bacolod city: The Police Regional Office-Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) is maintaining its vigilant stance by continuing to monitor the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) offices. This initiative aims to ensure the safety of employees and protect the community from potential violence during ongoing investigations into anomalous flood control projects.

According to Philippines News Agency, Lt. Col. Joem Malong, spokesperson for PRO-NIR, confirmed in an interview that the monitoring of DPWH offices is part of regular patrol activities. The efforts are especially focused in Bacolod City, where the Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) has been conducting security patrols around the DPWH district engineering office in Barangay Taculing. These patrols have been ongoing since the Trillion Peso March on September 21.

Lt. Col. Malong highlighted that following the lifting of the 'no permit, no rally' policy last Sunday, securing all potential areas for protest has become a priority. This is to preempt any unrest that may arise from the investigations or public demonstrations.

In a separate discussion, BCPO director Col. Joeresty Coronica emphasized the importance of these patrols. Although no personnel are permanently stationed at the DPWH Bacolod City Engineering Office, the area is regularly checked by police. Col. Coronica stated, "We have to learn from experiences not only in the Philippines, but also in other countries. Our instruction is to be always one step ahead of any possibility."

Additionally, a memorandum issued by DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon on September 9 advised agency officials and employees to refrain from wearing the prescribed uniform. This measure aims to protect them from harassment or bullying amidst the ongoing investigations.