PNP Chief: PRO NIR to Strengthen Security and Governance in Negros Island
The formal establishment of the Police Regional Office Negros Island Region (PRO NIR) marks a significant milestone in enhancing security and governance in Negros Island. By consolidating police forces from Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, and Siquijor, the initiative aims to improve coordination, streamline operations, and bring law enforcement services closer to the public.
The historic occasion was attended by Honorable Nestor B. Sanares, Undersecretary for Peace and Order at the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and Police Lieutenant General Robert T. Rodriguez, Deputy Chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP) for Operations. During the event, Police Brigadier General Jack Limpayos Wanky, currently the Regional Director of Police Regional Office 6, was sworn in as the Officer-in-Charge of PRO NIR.
In his address, Brigadier General Wanky expressed his commitment to the new role and his confidence in the dedication of PNP personnel and the support of local officials. “I humbly accept the additional responsibility as OIC of PRO NIR, alongside my duties as Regional Director of PRO 6. However, I know I am not alone in this mission. I see the dedication of our police officers and the strong support of our stakeholders, especially our Local Chief Executives. With your trust and cooperation, we can ensure that PRO NIR fulfills its mandate,” Wanky stated.
Under the new structure, PRO NIR comprises police units from both PRO 6 and PRO 7. From PRO 6, it includes the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office, Bacolod City Police Office, and all component city and municipal police stations. From PRO 7, the Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office and Siquijor Police Provincial Office, along with their city and municipal police stations, are now part of PRO NIR. To enhance operational efficiency, PRO NIR will have its own Regional Mobile Force Battalion consisting of 684 personnel—47 of whom are Police Commissioned Officers, while 637 are Police Non-Commissioned Officers.
Lieutenant General Rodriguez emphasized the significance of PRO NIR in fortifying security and ensuring a more efficient police response to public needs. “The creation of the Negros Island Region is a strategic move to better address the unique challenges in security and governance on the island. Under a unified regional command, we can improve coordination, enhance the capabilities of our police force, and ensure a more efficient and community-driven approach to law enforcement,” he stated.
Representing DILG Secretary Juanito Victor C. Remulla, Undersecretary Sanares reiterated the DILG’s full support for PRO NIR and underscored its broader role in maintaining peace and order nationwide. He recalled President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s remarks upon signing Republic Act No. 12000, highlighting that the creation of the Negros Island Region serves as a foundation for more effective public service and accelerated regional development. Sanares also noted a 2.67% decrease in the national crime rate in 2024, attributing it to the continuous improvements in law enforcement. He urged PRO NIR to intensify security measures, particularly in preparation for the 2025 midterm elections.
PNP Chief Police General Rommel Francisco Marbil expressed full support for PRO NIR, describing it as a crucial step toward a safer and more peaceful Negros Island. “The establishment of PRO NIR is not merely an administrative change—it is a firm commitment to every Negrense that their safety and well-being are our top priorities. This region holds immense potential, and with a strengthened and more focused police force, we are not only improving operations but also deepening our engagement with the community,” Marbil said.
As PRO NIR embarks on its new mission, it carries the promise of a more unified, effective, and community-centered law enforcement service. Under the leadership of Brigadier General Wanky, supported by dedicated police officers and engaged local governments, PRO NIR is poised to uphold its duty to protect and serve Negros Island with the highest standards of integrity and professionalism.
