Bankers not keen on using alarm system

Top officials of the Cebu Bankers Club are adamant towards adopting a hi-tech alarm system based on an ordinance authored by Cebu City Councilor Augustus Pe, Jr. The system is meant to inform the police about robbery or theft in just three seconds.

The officials of the club explained that since banks do have current security measures, adopting a high-tech alarm system is already redundant.

Harry Uy, CBC vice president, said that each bank has already its own security measures and that the club members see no reason to add another one.

However, during the public hearing on the said ordinance, Uy said that although the board of directors have already expressed its opposition to the adoption of a high-tech alarm system, they would still have to consult other members and will hold a general meeting.

Under the said ordinance, a high-tech mobile alarm remote system, with the use of a cellular phone, will be set as a means to detect crimes like robbery and theft in the city.

Last April 26, the city government purchased from Uni-Ventures Magnetics Corporation this alarm system that allows the transmission of information to police officials by just pressing a button or sending a text message.

The message will be transmitted into the main computer located at the City Hall and will set off the alarm and inform authorities of an ongoing robbery or theft.

This will allow the City Traffic Operations Management to block roads that are possible getaway points. After which police officials will advance and contain the area.

However, every establishment or an individual who wishes to avail of this service shall pay the required subscription fee of P3,600 for high-risk business establishments like banks and P1,000 for small establishments as well as for individuals. - Mitchelle P. Calipayan