BONGUYAN (FB)
DAVAO CITY – A Davao City councilor urged all barangays here to install closed-circuit television camera systems and deploy watchers to help protect government properties and maintain peace and order.
Councilor Jessica M. Bonguyan, chairperson of the Committee on Public Works and Highways, endorsed two resolutions during the City Council session encouraging barangays to adopt additional measures to deter theft, vandalism, and damage to public infrastructure.
One resolution reminded barangays to install and maintain functional CCTV camera systems within their jurisdictions in coordination with the Public Safety and Security Office and in accordance with the city's amended CCTV Ordinance No. 0331-23, Series of 2023.
According to Bonguyan, CCTV systems have proven effective in deterring crime, assisting law enforcement in investigations, preserving evidence, and improving public safety.
The councilor emphasized that recent incidents involving theft, vandalism, and damage to government-owned facilities highlighted the need for stronger security and surveillance across communities.
Bonguyan cited provisions of the Local Government Code of 1991, which authorize local government units and barangays to adopt measures that promote peace and order and protect the welfare of residents.
In the other resolution, she requested barangays to deploy barangay watchers to oversee government properties and intensify patrols within their respective areas.
The councilor urged barangays to strictly enforce existing penalties against individuals involved in vandalism, theft, and destruction of public property.
"Such a measure will strengthen crime prevention, improve evidence gathering, and serve as a strong deterrent against theft, vandalism, and other unlawful acts," Bonguyan said.
According to the resolution, recent reports of stolen public fixtures and damaged government facilities have resulted in financial losses and affected the safety and usability of public infrastructure.
The resolution ordered that copies of the measures be forwarded to all barangay councils and the Davao City Police Office to facilitate coordination, guidance, and enforcement.