LGUS urged to install CCTV to deter crimes
MANILA — Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo yesterday called on all local chief executives to install closedcircuit television (CCTV) cameras to improve peace and order situation in their respective localities.
Robredo encouraged local executives to enact, if none exists, or to amend, when necessary, an ordinance requiring the installation of CCTV cameras in business establishments.
He said the setting up of CCTV cameras would support the peace and order initiatives particularly of cities and municipalities with huge populations and robust economic activities.
“As local authorities are mandated under the Local Government Code to ensure peace and order as well as public safety in their localities, they should employ strategies and means to keep their communities crime- free and ward off would- be criminals,” he said.
Through CCTV cameras, police will be able to see the actual crime, helping them go after criminal elements.
In his directive, Robredo said local governments should install such surveillance equipment in strategic places and at heights free from human intervention.
“It has to be manned 24/7 by at least five trained local government personnel,” he said.
A number of LGUS have already passed ordinances requiring business establishments to install CCTV cameras, including the cities of Iloilo, Pasig, Mandaue, Muntinlupa, Iligan, and Quezon.