QCPD to install 50 CCTV cameras

MANILA, Philippines - The Quezon City Police District (QCPD) is set to install at least 50 closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras along major thoroughfares and crime-prone areas in the city this year.

QCPD director Chief Superintendent Magtanggol Gatdula, in a report to Mayor Feliciano Belmonte Jr., said 15 out of the 50 CCTV cameras have been installed and are ready for operation.

Gatdula said the 15 CCTV cameras are located in identified crime-prone areas where many commercial banks and business establishments are located, such as Cubao, Timog Avenue and Tomas Morato.

He said the owners of some business establishments in Libis have signified their desire to install their own CCTV camera to prevent their area from being a target of high-powered and well-funded criminal groups.

City Business Permit and Licensing Office (BPLO) head Pacifico Maghacot reported that two out of 95 banks registered in the city have complied with an ordinance requiring them to put up CCTV cameras within and outside their bank to dissuade robbers.

Police also use CCTV camera footage to help identify perpetrators of crimes. – Perseus Echeminada