Calizo cmte discuss security protocols in subdivisions

THE City Council Committee on police, fire and public safety chaired by Councilor Romeo V. Calizo last week discussed the proposed ordinance providing for security protocols in all subdivisions in the city.

“The setting up of security protocols shall be done initially with the different subdivisions and eventually, we will come out with security protocols involving all other structures in the city especially business establishments”, the chair explained.

Authored by Councilor Calizo, the proposed ordinance cites the need for subdivisions to strengthen their homeowners associations by adopting security measures, to help the authorities in gathering the needed security-related information and convey these to the duly constituted authorities.

This was affirmed by a representative of the Housing and Land Use Regulatory Board (HLURB), who said homeowners associations should complement support and strengthen Local Government Units (LGUs) in providing vital services to the members. Associations are also urged to help implement local government policies, programs, ordinances as provided for in Republic Act 9904,an Act providing for Magna Carta for homeowners and homeowners associations, he added.

The law provides that in providing such basic services, income derived from rentals, and other sources shall be tax-exempt provided that such income and use shall be used for the cleanliness, security and other basic services needed by the members.

With emphasis on the importance of security to deter the threat of terrorism and other forms of criminality, the security protocols in subdivisions should be inclined with that of the standards of the Philippine National Police (PNP), The Power learned.

The installation and use of Closed Circuit Television (CCTVs) will also help, said representatives of the City Legal Office and City Social Welfare and Development Department.

These and other relevant suggestions were noted by the committee.

Councilor Calizo said another round of discussion will be scheduled soon to finalize the drafting of the proposed ordinance. (JAO)