Editorial: Stay vigilant

Bacolod City Mayor Evelio Leonardia has directed the Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) to closely monitor the alleged presence of the armed group in the five barangays of the city.

These are Barangays Bata, Estefania, Granada, Banago, and Mansilingan.

In the previous years, the mayor noted, no reported sightings of an armed group in the city.

The mayor pointed out that election here remained to be peaceful compared to other areas.

While it is not yet time to panic, it helps to stay alert, observant and vigilant.

For sure, the local authorities are verifying the reported sightings in the city.

The police and the army will not ignore these reports to ensure peace and order especially now that the communist rebels had been aggressive in the past weeks in other parts of the province.

Apart from the police visibility and checkpoints across the city to prevent possible attacks, the public should also do their part as well, like remain vigilant.

We have to be observant of our environment and be cooperative with the authorities by sharing vital information.

If we see suspicious activities or persons, we have to report it immediately to the authorities.

The cooperation of the public is always a deterrent and will significantly enhance the security measure of the authorities.

We have to remain alert, as always.