The Makati City government has acquired 180 units of body-worn cameras for members of its Public Safety Department traffic enforcers as part of its thrust to utilize modern technology to enhance efficiency and transparency in its programs and services.
“The city government has invested in high-tech live video recording and wireless transmission equipment for traffic management and related operations of PSD to ensure faster response and prompt action during emergency situations, including road accidents and crimes in progress,” Mayor Abigail Binay said.
The body-worn cameras, Binay said, can also locate the whereabouts of traffic officers, thus facilitating strategic personnel deployment during critical operations and emergency situations.
The camera and wireless transmission system was developed by British company Digital Barriers and is widely used in the UK, US, and Asia. Each camera comes with a built-in microphone, at least 32 GB built-in TF memory, and 3G/4G real-time transmission, among other features.
“Aside from deterring our enforcers from engaging in any form of bribery and corruption, the body-worn cameras will also clearly show whether or not an apprehension has been done correctly,” Binay said.
She said cases of motorists accusing enforcers of abusive behavior can be quickly confirmed or disproved since operators at the command center are able to see exactly what is being seen by their colleagues on the field.
The city’s Command Control and Communications Center (C3) currently serves as the command and monitoring station for traffic-related operations facilitated by the body cameras. The monitoring system is powered by EdgeVis Live, a video transmission platform using world-class technology developed by the said company.