PNP launches body-worn camera system

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has recently launched its body-worn camera system as an action for more transparency on police operations.

On a live stream conducted last Friday, PNP chief Gen. Guillermo Eleazar shared information about the new body-worn camera system as he paid respects to Kian Delos Santos.

“Today, the Filipino people will finally have the eyes and ears in law enforcement and in the implementation of peace and order in the country,” Eleazar said during the body camera system’s launch at Camp Crame in Quezon City.

According to the PNP, the body-worn cameras (BWCs) are capable of night-vision with an object detection range of up to 10 meters. In addition to its night-vision, the BWCs are also water-proof and could record both audio and video for at least eight hours of continuous operation. Once the video recording is turned on, the desk officer in charge will be immediately notified.

The PNP has distributed 2,696 body cameras to different police stations and is acquiring 32,136 more units. In addition, Eleazar stated that the body cams would be initially used for search warrants, anti-illegal drug operations, and warrants of arrest.

The BWCs will only be turned off once the operation is concluded, and during an arrest, recording will stop upon turn-over of the suspect to the detention facility.

The units that will be given the BWCs include units from the Mobile Force Battalions and National Operating Support units, like the Special Action Force, Maritime Group, Aviation Security Group, Criminal Investigation, and Detection Group, Anti-Kidnapping Group, and Highway Patrol Group.

Source: PNP FB page, PNP.GOV