Firm defends PNP computerization deal

MANILA, Philippines - A firm that entered into a deal with the Philippine National Police (PNP) to establish an online database of security guards and their agencies said yesterday this system will professionalize the industry and protect the rights of security guards.

In a statement, IDEEU Imagination and Creations Corp. corporate secretary Robert Lopez also defended the P300 fee that a security guard has to pay every three years in exchange for the red tape-free and speedy renewal of their licenses.

IDEEU signed a memorandum of agreement with the PNP Supervisory Office for Security and Investigation Agencies (SOSIA) to computerize the database of about 422,000 private security professionals attached to over 1,529 security agencies nationwide.

The implementation of the program was put on hold after some groups elevated the matter to the office of Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo, who is reviewing the agreement.