By Glazyl Y. Masculino
BACOLOD CITY – The Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) recorded zero crime incidents during the 45th MassKara Festival and seized PHP33,097,258 worth of suspected shabu from October 1 to 27.
This was announced during the culmination of the MassKara security deployment at the BCPO headquarters.
“This year’s MassKara Festival was generally peaceful with no crime incidents reported, despite the torrential rain,” said Police Colonel Joeresty Coronica, BCPO director.
The city police arrested 55 individuals involved in drug-related activities, confiscating a total of 4,867.39 grams of suspected shabu.
“We attribute this year’s success to the unwavering support of our community and stakeholders, as well as the dedication of our police officers who worked tirelessly around the clock,” Coronica added.
Enhanced police visibility, efficient crowd management, and strict implementation of festival rules allowed thousands of residents and visitors to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere across all festival sites throughout the 17-day celebration.
Coronica expressed his gratitude to those who helped the local government unit (LGU) and the BCPO ensure a peaceful MassKara Festival. “Collectively, we have done a great job. Kudos to everyone,” he said.
Police Brig. Gen. Jack Wanky, director of Police Regional Office (PRO)-6, said that augmentation personnel will have a two-day break after maintaining peace and order during the festival.
As the MassKara Festival has been extended until October 31, the BCPO will continue to deploy its personnel to man the festival sites.
Nearly 2,000 security forces were deployed to ensure peace and order during the Sapphire edition of the festival.
