A P-1 million budget was allotted for the purchase of closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras which were installed across the Tagbilaran City port to boost monitoring capabilities and security in the facility.
According to Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) Tagbilaran manager James Gantalao, the 32 high definition security cameras were mounted in key areas for 24-hour monitoring of the port area.
The new system was installed to improve security and hasten the location of passengers’ lost items through recorded footage.
“Daghan na ta nga hitabo nga dunay mga gamit nga mabilin sa usa ka dapit sulod sa pantalan ug bisan sa tricycle, mabalik lang gihapon sa mga tag-iya kay ato man dayon nga ma detect,” Gantalao said.
The cameras have also put a stop to illegal collection of payment from motorists inside the port or “kotong” by errant security guards, he added.
However, Gantalao admitted that the port is still “80 percent” complete in complying with the PPA’s nationwide security standards.
The Tagbilaran PPA has also deployed security personnel in plain clothes who conduct patrols in key areas of the port area.
Gantalao said that they also intend to add more security cameras to further improve monitoring.
Still, the PPA official urged the public to be mindful of their belongings so as not to leave them behind the port where hundreds of passengers pass through daily. (A. Doydora)