Stronger Support of Bacolod Gov’t To Local Police Operations in 2026 Lauded

The Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) credited the continued support of the Bacolod City Government as a key factor in strengthening police operations, personnel welfare, and public safety efforts as the city enters 2026.

During the BCPO New Year’s Call Wednesday, police officials highlighted the logistical, financial, and operational assistance provided by the city government under the leadership of Mayor Greg Gasataya, describing it as a major boost to the force’s capacity to respond to crime and maintain peace and order, particularly in the intensified campaign against illegal drugs.

Police Captain Rosalino Pugoy Jr. of the BCPO SWAT Team said the city’s support has directly improved both mission readiness and personnel safety.

“The support we received from the City of Bacolod includes two SWAT vans. This is a big help because these are armored vehicles. During operations, we no longer need to request armored units from elsewhere — the SWAT team can now accomplish missions more efficiently and safely,” Pugoy said.

He added that the turnover of 40,800 rounds of training ammunition has allowed SWAT personnel to train without personal expense, strengthening their preparedness for high-risk operations.

“Before, our personnel had to pay for training materials themselves. Now, we have extra ammunition for continuous training,” he said.

Pugoy also cited other logistical support provided by the city, including an LED wall for activities that require high visibility, computers for BCPO offices to improve administrative efficiency, and tires for patrol cars.

“The support of the mayor for the needs of the Bacolod City Police Office is truly felt,” he added.

According to BCPO personnel, the city’s investment in equipment has gone hand in hand with support for police welfare. The monthly allowance of uniformed personnel was increased from ₱1,500 to ₱2,000, a move welcomed by officers as meaningful assistance for their families.

“The ₱2,000 monthly allowance is already a big help. It can now cover a family’s daily needs, even a sack of rice. This is a meaningful additional support for our families,” Pugoy said.

Patrolwoman Rosanie Bulacja said the level of assistance from the city government is unprecedented in her years of service and reflects the city’s commitment to modernizing police work.

“We were also given an LED wall, which is a big help because our generation is becoming more modern, and the BCPO also needs to modernize. The hand-held radios we received are essential for communication among patrollers in our stations,” Bulacja said.

“In my three years of service, this is the first time I have experienced this level of support from our LGU. We hope the mayor’s help for us will continue, and we will return this by giving quality service to the people and communities of Bacolod,” she added.

The BCPO also welcomed the upcoming turnover of 10 electric patrol vehicles, which will be deployed to police stations across the city as part of the city government’s modernization program for law enforcement mobility.

Mayor Gasataya earlier assured police personnel of the city’s continued backing, saying the sacrifices and risks taken by police officers inspire the local government to further strengthen its support for peace and order initiatives.

With stronger logistical support, improved welfare, and modernized equipment, the BCPO said it remains committed to serving and protecting the people of Bacolod with professionalism and dedication in 2026.* (Bacolod City Communications Office text & photos)