Rama dismayed over LBC’s lack of security

CEBU, Philippines - Mayor Michael Rama expressed disappointment over LBC’s failure to heed his directive to integrate security measures to deter crimes.

Exactly one week ago today, Rama ordered all LBC branches in the city to deploy security guards and install surveillance cameras. However, it appears the courier firm has not taken action on the mayor’s directive.

Rama together with Cebu City Police Office Chief Noli Romana yesterday conducted an ocular inspection of three branches of the LBC Express in the City following the string robberies involving the courier company.

The chief executive observed that outlets in Punta Princesa, Bulacao and Escario Street lack appropriate security measures.

Romana, however, said he was glad that the said outlets have installed functional closed-circuit television cameras in their branches as per recommendation by police.

“At least nag-respond na sila ‘dun sa request natin. Hindi pa naman (sufficient) pero mag-iimprove pa rin tayo kasi gagawa pa rin kami ng paraan to complement their compliance,” he said.

He further said that the locations of the three branches are distinct from each other.

But Rama said surveillance cameras are useless without personnel manning or supervising them.

“There’s more to be done because cameras will only help after the crime is committed. Then, what if stealing will be now, and no one is monitoring it? So what’s the purpose of installing?” he asked.

When asked if he will still pursue revoking the permits granted to all of the courier firm’s branches in the city, Rama said he still waiting for the opinion of the city legal office.

In Cebu City alone this year, LBC branches in Barangays Punta Princesa, Kamputhaw and Taboan already lost over P57,000 to robbers. The Punta Princesa branch has been robbed twice.

Moreover, Romana said that he has yet to secure a list of all the branches of the courier company that responded to their recommendation to upgrade its CCTV.

However, he said he still noticed that LBC Express branches have not hired security personnel.

“Yung pinu-push ko pa rin ang broken time na security guards,” he said adding that he would be glad if the company’s reason for not hiring security guard is their trust and confidence in the city’s elements of peace and order. -Kristine B. Quintas and Jean Marvette A. Demecillo, correspondent/BRP (FREEMAN)