Oro to strictly implement CCTV ordinance

THE Cagayan de Oro City Council is set to strictly implement the ordinance requiring establishments to install their own closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras.

Councilor Ian Mark Nacaya, chair of the committee on police, fire and public safety, said business permits will no longer be renewed to establishments that will not comply with the ordinance.

The ordinance calls for the installation of CCTV cameras in private establishments and major public areas in the city.

Last year, Councilor Ramon Tabor proposed an ordinance requiring the installation of CCTV cameras before an establishment is given a business permit.

Nacaya said a “no CCTV, no permit” policy will strengthen the city’s peace and order campaign.

He added that this would also make easier for local enforcers to immediately solve crimes.

The ordinance mandates the installation of CCTVs or video surveillance system in the premises of private establishments and public places that are considered “high-risk” such as gasoline stations, banks, and department stores.

Under the ordinance, the city police director shall issue a notice of violation to establishments not complying with the law and is authorized to investigate all alleged violations of the ordinance.

Nacaya said the CCTV cameras can help solve crimes.

He said the CCTV camera at Maxandrea Hotel that captured the three suspects on Thursday dawn’s bombing incident in the city would greatly help in the investigation.

“The CCTV will be a big factor to help identify the suspects and speed up the investigation. Let us not wait for another incident like this to happen. Let us be vigilant and help ourselves in providing protective measures for our own safety and not just completely rely on other people. Our police officials may be our watchdogs and help keep peace and order but their duties are limited so let us also do our part,” Nacaya said.

He said having a CCTV camera and hiring security guards are measures that establishments should consider for their safety.

Nacaya added his committee would also look into other measures such as the installation of alarm system within establishments that connects to a communication center of law enforcers. (Nicole J. Managbanag)