Installation of cctv camera pushed

Pagadian City – Various groups have encourage business sectors to fix security cameras at their establishments to deter crimes of thievery, robbery and even murder. Board Member Ernesto Mondarte disclosed the Sangguniang Panlalawigan is now pushing for a resolution urging business owners, banks, cooperatives and jewelry stores in Zamboanga del Sur and Pagadian City to mount close-circuit television (cctv) cameras to monitor activities around their business establishments.
Citing the recent Banco de Oro robbery incident, Mondarte stressed that if security cameras are fixed on the vicinity, potential robbers are discouraged to pursue their motives. He added that monitoring cameras would also help police authorities in identifying the crime groups and other personalities.

City Mayor Sammy Co, on the other hand, disclosed that a multi-million security camera would be installed along the streets and at vital government buildings next year. Mayor Co emphasized that cctv’s play important roles in preserving peace and order as the equipment would allow police force to intensify monitoring and surveillance operations.

He admitted that the present surveillance cameras of the city government, which costs about P3 million, are less efficient outdoors. The cameras are still operational but are focused just within the surrounding area of the city hall.

“The city government is planning to acquire state-of-the-art camera systems to be installed at different locations in the city,” said Mayor Co, adding that he prefers U.S. made cameras that are more sophisticated and efficient.

Police Chief Inspector Michael Palermo also urged business establishments to install cctv cameras on their locations. The police chief stressed big businesses and banks are most likely become subjects of robbery considering the large flow of cash money they handle.

In another development, Mayor Co is having second thoughts on installing traffic lights along the busiest streets in the city. Co explained it is possible that traffic lights will slow down traffic, as motorists have to stop at red lights even if the street is available.

The Mayor also noted that city blocks of Pagadian are small that vehicles could easily congest part of the streets if traffic lights operate.

“However, we will try to set up the traffic lights if we can achieve smoother traffic flow,” Co said, adding that the city government may launch the traffic light system simultaneously with the opening of the City Commercial Complex (C3).