Bacolod city: The Police Regional Office-Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) has activated a comprehensive security and public safety plan as a broad alliance in Negros Occidental prepares for the 'Trillion Peso March 2.0' on November 30. In a statement, PRO-NIR Director Brig. Gen. Arnold Thomas Ibay stated their commitment to ensuring the march-rally is conducted safely, peacefully, and orderly.
According to Philippines News Agency, Ibay emphasized the importance of respecting the people's right to peaceful assembly while protecting the welfare of the community. He urged participants to exercise responsibility and cooperation to maintain peace and civility throughout the event. The PRO-NIR will implement the security plan in coordination with local government units, emergency responders, and partner agencies.
Approximately 2,000 police personnel will be deployed across the region for crowd and traffic management, emergency response, and monitoring of potential security concerns. Although no major threats have been identified as of Thursday, the PRO-NIR will be on heightened alert status to ensure the safety of the public.
The Roman Catholic Diocese of Bacolod, Tama Na! Alliance against Corruption-Negros, and the One Negros Ecumenical Council will jointly lead the march-rally in Bacolod City. Assembly areas include the Provincial Capitol Lagoon and South Capitol Road for delegations from the north, and Sacred Heart Seminary on Lizares Avenue for those from the south. Participants will gather at the Bacolod City Public Plaza replica center for the rally at 2 p.m.
In a press conference at the Bishop's House, former governor Rafael Coscolluela, Bishop Patricio Buzon, and Bishop Virgilio Amihan called for thorough and impartial investigations into alleged corrupt activities in public works and government projects. They emphasized the need for systemic change and reforms, driven by collective voices demanding accountability and transparency.