Negros: Policemen in Negros and Siquijor must be visible on the streets to deter criminal activities and prevent incidents before they occur.

According to Philippines News Agency, Negros Region's total crime incidents decreased by 21.02 percent in August. 'Return to the basics of policing. The fundamental duty of the police is to prevent and solve crimes, with greater emphasis on crime prevention through a visible and active police presence in communities,' Brig. Gen. Rudecindo Reales said in his first official engagement as Director of the Police Regional Office-Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) on Tuesday.

PRO-NIR supervises the police offices of Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, Siquijor, and Bacolod City. Reales stressed the importance of effectively solving crimes while upholding discipline, professionalism, and the integrity of the organization. 'Every action and decision reflects on the credibility of the Philippine National Police. Exercise sound judgment, protect the trust of the public and ensure that your conduct does not put your careers or families at risk,' he added.

The new PRO-NIR chief said a strong police organization begins with personnel who understand their responsibilities, remain accountable for their actions, and perform their duties with purpose. Reales succeeded Brig. Gen. Romano Cardi±o, who is now the director of PRO-8 (Eastern Visayas).

PRO-NIR data showed that the 21.02 percent decrease in total crime incidents last month translates to only 695 cases compared to 880 in August 2025. The eight focus crimes (murder, homicide, physical injury, rape, robbery, theft, motor vehicle theft, and motorcycle theft) declined by 10.53 percent.