Labella backs CCTV ordinance

CEBU, Philippines - The Cebu City Council’s committee on laws has recommended the approval of the proposed ordinance that requires business establishments and residential subdivisions in the city to install closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras within their premises.

Councilor Edgardo Labella, who chairs the committee, found the proposed ordinance helpful in the fight against criminal elements in the city. He however recommended that a public hearing should be conducted.

Councilor Sisinio Andales earlier proposed to require business establishments and developers of residential subdivisions to install CCTV cameras to help the police in the fight against criminalities.

Andales said the CCTV has been found to be effective in documenting evidence in crime incidents. Labella agreed that the installation of CCTV cameras in establishments and subdivisions could be a deterrent against the commission of crimes.

According to Andales, his proposed ordinance, if approved, will require business establishments such as banks, money changers, lending institutions, pawnshops, gas stations, internet shops, private schools, factories, hospitals, privately –owned wet and dry markets, retail and service establishments, shopping malls, privately-owned paid parking lots, entrance and exits of subdivisions to install CCTV.

Labella said the proposed resolution is within the authority of the City Council to approve. Some establishments in the city however already have CCTV cameras. —(FREEMAN)