Navotas requires business establishments to have surveillance cameras
MANILA,
March 13 (PNA) -- Business establishments in Navotas such as banks,
pawnshops, money exchange shops, convenience stores, major drugstores,
internet shops and cafes, gasoline stations, bills payment centers and
grocery stores have until next May to comply with a local ordinance
requiring the installation of video surveillance and monitoring systems
in the immediate vicinity of their business offices
Mayor Tobias "Toby" Tiangco said the order is in compliance
with City Ordinance No. 2009-08.
“With the use of video monitoring devices, police and
investigators will have an easier time identifying the perpetrators of
these robbery-hold ups and other illegal activities,” Tiangco said.
“Crimes of this nature could somehow be prevented and
deterred when appropriate monitoring devices are installed in the
business/commercial establishments”, the mayor added.
The ordinance also stated that by installing the said
devices it is for the advantage of the business sector, making it easy
for the police to monitor on-going events and for the recordings to
serve as an aid for investigators to know how the crime was committed
and help identify, capture and prosecute criminals.
Non-compliance with the ordinance is punishable with a fine
of P5,000 or six-month imprisonment, or both at the discretion of the
court.
If any erring business establishment refuses to pay the
imposed fines within 15 calendar days from receipt of the violation
notice or citation ticket, business permit and license to operate shall
be suspended until the penalty is settled and requirements have been
met.
The business establishment will be allowed to resume
operation after the installation of all the requirements and upon the
recommendation of the chief of police or the business permit and
licensing officer.
Tiangco asked the business firms to start installing the
monitoring devices before the deadline.
“The cost of putting up a video surveillance and monitoring
system is minimal compared to the protection it will give both the
establishment and its customers,” Tiangco said. (PNA)
FFC/PFN
|
