MMDA gets stakeholders' nod on body-worn camera usage

The target of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) for enforcers to use body-worn cameras when carrying out their duties has received support from various stakeholders.

During the recent stakeholders meeting, MMDA Acting Chairman Romando Artes shared that the aforementioned pieces of equipment have a video and audio recording feature to protect both enforcers and motorists during apprehensions.

“The use of body-worn cameras will prevent traffic enforcers from taking bribes and motorists offering bribes since the Metrobase will record the apprehension process. The footage may serve as evidence,”  Artes  said. 

During the meeting, 1-Rider Partylist Representative Bonifacio Bosita lauded Artes’ leadership, saying that the use of body-worn cameras will provide effective traffic enforcement operations.

“Kami ay nakasuporta kay Chairman Artes dahil nakikita natin dito na ang pagsulong ng body-worn cameras ng mga enforcers ay isang patunay ng sincerity ng kanyang leadership sa public service. Kitang kita ang kanyang dedikasyon para magampanan ang kanyang trabaho (We support Chairman Artes because we see here that the promotion of body-worn cameras to be used by enforcers is a proof of the sincerity of his leadership in public service. I can see his dedication to doing his job),” Bosita said.

Meanwhile, Pangkalahatang Sanggunian Manila and Suburbs Drivers Association (PASANG MASDA) national president Obet Martin expressed the group's appreciation for the MMDA program. In addition, they also called for the inclusion of traffic education in the school curriculum.

According to Artes, the stakeholders' comments will be consolidated and presented to the Metro Manila Council (MMC), which serves as the MMDA's governing and policy-making body. To note, the MMC is composed of 17 Metro Manila mayors.

Further, Artes said prior to using the body-worn cameras, traffic enforcers should inform motorists that the equipment will be turned on. Vehicle users, in turn, may invoke their right to privacy.

Initially, 120 body cameras — similar to those being used in the United Kingdom —will be distributed to traffic enforcers who are authorized to issue citation tickets to traffic violators. Each of the aforementioned equipment has a six-eight hours battery life.

Photos from Metropolitan Manila Development Authority

Also read:

Former Nueva Ecija mayor is new MMDA AGM for Ops

MMDA to soft launch handheld ticketing device usage in Jul.

Fake MMDA employee nabbed for extortion, usurpation of authority