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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider Visayas devider PRO-NIR taps drones to boost 5-minute response time for MassKara Festival

PRO-NIR taps drones to boost 5-minute response time for MassKara Festival

Published Aug 24, 2025 09:37 pm
BACOLOD CITY – To strengthen real-time situational awareness and ensure swift law enforcement response during the upcoming MassKara Festival, the Police Regional Office–Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) is maximizing the use of drone technology to support its five-minute response time (5MRT) policy.
This initiative was a key point during a recent emergency meeting led by Police Brig. Gen. Arnold Thomas Ibay, PRO-NIR director, which gathered top police officers, to finalize security preparations for the festival running from Sept. 30 to Oct. 19.
THE Police Regional Office-Negros Island Region conducts a drone training at the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office headquarters in Bacolod City to orient police personnel with drone operations from takeoff and navigation to hands-on supervised flight practice. (Photo courtesy of PRO-NIR)
THE Police Regional Office-Negros Island Region conducts a drone training at the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office headquarters in Bacolod City to orient police personnel with drone operations from takeoff and navigation to hands-on supervised flight practice. (Photo courtesy of PRO-NIR)
Police Lt. Col. Joem Malong, PRO-NIR spokesperson, said that real-time aerial surveillance via drones will enable quicker deployment of ground units to address incidents promptly.
Earlier this month, the regional office conducted a drone training seminar at the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office headquarters here, familiarizing 20 personnel with drone operations, from takeoff and navigation to hands-on supervised flight practice.
Acting Deputy Regional Director for Operations Police Col. Lito Patay emphasized the importance of drone integration in enhancing the region’s emergency response capability, particularly in achieving the 5MRT to time sensitive situations and police response.
The regional police office noted that drones offer critical situational awareness, helping law enforcement efficiently assess scenarios and direct resources swiftly, aligning with the directive of PNP chief Police Gen. Nicolas Torre III to implement the 5MRT standard.
PRO-NIR is committed to continuous training and tech-driven innovation to maintain a responsive and adaptive police force, capable of meeting evolving public safety demands.
PRO-NIR has outlined a comprehensive MassKara security plan involving the deployment of Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) teams, Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) teams, K9 units, and traffic enforcers in high-density and critical areas such as parade routes, concert venues, transport terminals, and tourist spots.
Ibay stressed the dual importance of police visibility and community engagement, noting that proactive policing helps build public trust and deter crime.
He highlighted the need for a multi-agency approach, especially with the anticipated influx of local and international visitors.
The festival’s security strategy includes collaboration with various government agencies for emergency response, medical support, traffic management, intelligence coordination, and logistical backing.
Joint simulation exercises and real-time communication channels will also be established to ensure seamless coordination throughout the celebration.

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