Saturday, September 15, 2007 ‘Ban mobiles in banks’
BANKS forbid the use of cellular phones in their premises. But they can’t really compel those who don’t take heed.
That, however, could change if Cebu City Councilor Edgardo Labella’s proposed measure imposing a P1,000 fine on violators gets approved by the City Council.
The councilor said “a huge number of bank managers in Cebu City admit that there now exists an imperative need for an appropriate and preventive legislation to protect banks.”
Authorities have advised security guards to keep an eye on those supposedly transacting business inside banks and using their cellular phones because they might be robbers doing surveillance for a future “hit.”
And with the advent of camera-equipped cellular phones, it is now easier for lawless elements to shoot video of a bank’s interior, which is vital information for them when planning robberies.
A robber inside a bank can, using a cell phone, also signal his companions waiting outside to pounce on the establishment.
Labella acknowledged that cell phones are “cutting-edge tools of communication (that) have spurred speed and efficiency in the conduct of business and personal transactions.”
But, he said, they have also become tools for robbers to carry out their nefarious activities.
“The passage of the…measure will give the impression that the City Government is committed to protecting and preserving the interests of legitimate business establishments, and will project the image of a progressive, peaceful, and vigilant center of trade and commerce in this part of the country,” he added.
Labella’s proposed ordinance will make it unlawful for anyone to use cell phones inside the premises of banks within the city.
It also requires banks to post warning signs informing clients of the prohibition, and to set up a holding place to keep the cell phones while owners are still transacting within the bank.
And in case a cell phone owner prefers to keep his gadget with him, he “shall be obliged to switch off the said cellular phone.”
The City Council is expected to refer the proposed measure to the committee on laws in its session next week. (RHM)
