Okay of bill requiring all businesses to have CCTV cameras pressed
LAWMAKERS appealed to Congress to swiftly pass a measure requiring business establishments to install and maintain closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras in their workplaces and exits, as a means to deter crime and aid investigations conducted by law enforcers.
House Bill 8068 was authored by Davao City Rep. Paolo Duterte, Benguet Rep. Eric Yap and ACT-CIS Party-list Rep. Edvic Yap.
The solons proposed that all businesses employing more than 20 workers and with work premises of not less than 50 meters must to install CCTV or surveillance cameras, and maintain these in good working condition.
Business establishments employing less than 20 workers or whose work premises are less than 50 meters but with transactions amounting to at least P50,000 per day are also required to install and maintain CCTV cameras.
“We should use technology to our advantage to help keep our citizens safe. Installing CCTV cameras in strategic areas is an effective crime prevention measure, and can be a useful tool to help police investigators solve crime,” Duterte said.
Under HB 8068, business establishments covered by the measure shall install and maintain CCTV cameras in all their entrances and exits, within the premises of their work areas, the perimeter of their work areas and other places in their business premises, except in restrooms, toilers, showers, bathrooms, changing rooms, and other similar spaces.
The bill also makes the installation of CCTV cameras a prerequisite for the issuance of business permits or permits to operate of commercial establishments, including, but not limited to, restaurants, hospitals, malls, shopping centers, movie houses, theaters, supermarkets, groceries, entertainment centers, office buildings, warehouses, and cockpit arenas.
