In a bid to prevent crimes and improve information gathering against criminals, the House of Representatives has approved on second reading a measure that requires public utility vehicles to install closed-circuit television cameras and global positioning system trackers.
Under House Bill 6112 or the proposed Public Utility Vehicle Monitoring Act, no public utility vehicle will be allowed to operate without the required CCTV camera and GPS tracker installed.
These must be authenticated and sealed by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board.
At least two CCTV camera units must be installed and a written notice should be boldly displayed in areas easily seen by the passengers of PUVs to inform them the unit is equipped with cameras and a GPS tracker.
Operators who will not comply with these requirements will not be granted a Certificate of Public Convenience.
PUVs already in operation should comply with the requirements upon renewal of registration or not later than six months after the promulgation of the implementing rules and regulations of the law.
Violators will be slapped a fine of P5,000 for the first offense; P10,000 for the second offense; and P15,000 for the third offense.
The driver’s license or franchise will be suspended for 30 days on the fourth offense, 90 days on fifth offense, and 180 days on sixth offense.
The franchise or driver’s license will be revoked or canceled on the seventh offense.