Pasay requires CCTV in all banks, pawnshops, bus terminals, gasoline stations

In addition to banks and bus terminals, the Pasay City Government is now requiring all pawnshops, money changers, money transfer and courier service, and gasoline stations to likewise install Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras which could help solve or deter crimes.

Pasay City Mayor Antonio "Tony" Calixto recently approved Ordinance No. 4532, S. 2011 sponsored by Councilors Arvin G. Tolentino and Mary Grace Santos which requires the installation of CCTV in these establishments within three (3) months from its approval. Last year, Pasay also required the posting of bomb sniffing dogs in all bus terminals and stations within its jurisdiction for the protection and security of all commuters.

The mayor said that permits of business establishments failing to comply with the ordinance will be revoked or suspended.

"The CCTV has been instrumental in the solution of many crimes both here and abroad. Pasay's new policy is in line with our peace and order campaign with emphasis in deterring the incidence of crimes like burglary, theft, carnapping, and even kidnapping cases," said Calixto.

Calixto said that he has directed the chief of the Pasay Business Permit and Licensing Office (BPLO) to inspect all establishments for compliance with the said ordinance. "We will strictly implement the new policy on CCTV," he added.

The city executive said the adoption of the new policy would make CCTV installation a basic requirement when applying or renewing business permit in the city.

The Ordinance provides that the business establishment shall preserve the camera recordings for at least one (1) year from date of recording and that these shall be made available to police and crime investigators upon written request.

In addition to suspension of the Mayor's Permit, all business establishments failing to comply with said ordinance shall be fined P1,000 for every day of violation until compliance. Those who fail to preserve camera recordings or who refuse to give access to police authorities shall be fined P5,000.

NEWS RELEASE By: Pasay City- Public Information Office

March 16, 2012