• THERESA MAE DULMAN
The Office of the Building Official (OBO) said that commercial establishments will not be issued building permits unless they have a functional closed-circuit television (CCTV) system installed on their premises.
Chief of the OBO Annual Inspection Division Engr. Orlando Dalipe Jr. said it aims to enhance security and crime prevention.
Beyond the mere presence of cameras, inspectors are also verifying that the systems are fully operational and properly monitored.
Compliance checks include ensuring the system is linked to a monitor, a computer, or accessible via mobile phone and internet connections.
The requirement is based on City Ordinance No. 600, series of 2012, and a 2022 DILG Memorandum Circular mandating CCTVs as a core safety and security measure for businesses.
The ordinance stated that banks, financial institutions, businesses with a minimum capital of P3 million are required to install CCTV on their premises.
There are, however concerns with the ordinance, due to the lack of provisions for business owners to surrender footage to the police during criminal investigations.*
