NOV 29, 2015

NR # 4033B

Install high-definition CCTV cameras in all baggage checking areas of

airports solon
A lawmaker has proposed the installation of high-definition closed-circuit
surveillance cameras in baggage checking areas of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport
(NAIA) and all others airports nationwide to prevent alleged illegal and extortion
activities by airport security personnel.
Rep. Mark A. Villar (Lone District, Las Pias City) filed House Bill 6243 to be
known as the Luggage Surveillance Act of 2015 in the midst of rampant incidents of
bullet planting and extortion allegedly by security personnel, which have developed a
culture of fear among tourists and balikbayans as well.
Villar said the common narration of the victims is that they were stopped after their
luggages have been scanned. The security officer would then check the luggage and pull
out a bullet from its pocket. Thereafter, the security officer would then detain the victim
and extort money for the speedy resolution of the problem.
These incidents of tanim bala are truly inimical to our tourism industry and to the
national economy. We can utilize technology to our advantage, especially in protecting
people and in preventing undesirable incidents from happening, Villar said.
He stressed that with the installation of high-definition closed-circuit television
cameras, the perpetrators of this nefarious laglag bala or tanim bala scheme can be
identified or deterred.
Villar pointed out that the use of high-definition CCTV cameras will also be a
security measure for other unlawful schemes that have not been anticipated.
The installation of closed-circuit television system cameras in public places and in
business establishments have proven to be useful in identifying and catching offenders,
and in preventing crimes from happening due to the fear of being caught, Villar said.
In filing the bill, Villar cited the declared policy of the State to maintain peace and
order, protect life, liberty, and property, and promote the general welfare.
The measure requires the installation of HD CCTV cameras and properly
maintained in all Baggage Checking Areas in airport terminals. It is mandated that these
HD CCTV cameras shall be online for 24-hours a day and seven days a week. It is also
required that a deposit of video recordings be kept for a period not less than 60 days from
recording.

Under the bill, the Philippine National Police Aviation Security Group is mandated
to take charge of operating and maintaining in good condition the HD CCTV cameras.
The authorized custodian of the video recordings shall maintain the privacy and
confidentiality of the video recordings obtained as a result of the surveillance performed.
He shall prohibit any use, viewing, disclosure, or publication of the video recordings.
The bill prohibits the tampering of the HD CCTV cameras. Any person who
commits an offense shall be liable to imprisonment not exceeding three years and a fine
not more than P30,000, or both.
It the violator is a public officer or employee, he or she shall be liable to
imprisonment not exceeding five years and a fine not exceeding P50,000, or both. (30) lvc