Lawmaker pushes ‘anti-bombing’ measures

MANILA, Philippines - A congressman pushed yesterday for measures that would make closed-circuit television (CCTV) systems a requirement for all establishments and the registration of SIM cards to prevent bombs attacks, or at least make them easier to solve.

Cagayan de Oro Rep. Rufus Rodriguez said he filed the two measures during the 15th Congress in the aftermath of the October 2012 bombing in the city.

“I re-filed them this 16th Congress in July, and I hope to convince my fellow congressmen to pass them,” he said at a forum at the Manila Hotel.

He cited the bombing at the Boston Marathon wherein the suspects were easily identified by authorities with the help of CCTV cameras installed around the area and the photographs provided by those watching the event.

Rodriguez also underscored the need to register SIM cards. “In the October 2012 bombing, what was used as a triggering device was a cell phone… All SIM (cards) should be registered so that there is responsibility (that) can be traced to a cell phone,” he added.

Rodriquez said that this scheme could also work to prevent other crimes like extortion.

Chief Superintendent Lina Sarmiento, director of the Philippine National Police’s Community Relations Group, said the public should use high-resolution cameras.