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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider Visayas devider New Year in Negros Island peaceful

New Year in Negros Island peaceful

Published Jan 1, 2026 04:18 pm
THE Police Regional Office-Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) reported a generally peaceful celebration of the New Year. (PRO-NIR)
THE Police Regional Office-Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) reported a generally peaceful celebration of the New Year. (PRO-NIR)
BACOLOD CITY – Police said the New Year in Negros Island was generally peaceful, orderly, and secure, with no stray bullet incidents, and only one indiscriminate firing incident involving a retired Marine officer.
Police Lt. Col. Joem Malong, Police Regional Office-Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) spokesperson, said that a 43-year-old retired Marine officer was arrested in Barangay Balingasag, Bago City, Negros Occidental on Christmas Eve, Dec. 24, for alleged illegal discharge of firearm.
Investigation showed that the suspect was reportedly intoxicated when successive gunshots were heard from a compound before midnight.
Police recovered one case of .45 caliber scattered beside the house and 34 fired cartridges. Seized from the suspect's sling bag was an Armscor .45 caliber pistol loaded with 14 live ammunition, an empty magazine, and a .45 caliber magazine loaded with six live ammunition.
Crime incidents during the Yuletide season remained generally manageable from Dec. 16, 2025 to Jan. 1, 2026 in Negros Occidental, including this highly-urbanized city, Negros Oriental, and Siquijor.
Police attributed the peaceful celebration to heightened police visibility, strategic deployment, and strong coordination with local government units and partner agencies.
Over 1,900 personnel were mobilized daily, supported by augmentation units and advocacy groups, and strategically deployed in transport hubs, tourist destinations, places of worship, and major convergence areas.
The PRO-NIR’s anti-criminality operations yielded significant gains – the arrest of 91 drug suspects, 101 wanted persons, and 34 individuals involved in illegal gambling, and the seizure of 37 loose firearms.
Police Brig. Gen. Arnold Thomas Ibay, PRO-NIR, commended police and the public for their cooperation and discipline during the holiday season.
“The generally peaceful New Year celebration in the region is a clear manifestation of our police officers’ dedication and the strong cooperation of our communities," Ibay said. This positive outcome reflects our collective commitment to safety, discipline, and responsible celebration, he added.
He thanked the public for partnering with the police in maintaining peace and order in welcoming the new year.

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