Makabayan bloc seeks probe on 'delayed' implementation of PNP's body cam project

The Makabayan bloc is calling for a House probe into the supposed delay in the implementation of the Philippine National Police's (PNP) P334-million body camera project.  

In House Resolution 1480, the six-member bloc pointed out that a total of P334 million was allocated under the 2018 General Appropriations Act for the purchase of body cameras to be used by the police.

The use of body cameras, they said, was meant to ensure greater transparency in police anti-drug operations amid the increasing number of deaths under the Duterte administration's war on drugs.

They added that the PNP planned to purchase at least 12,476 cameras by June 2018, but this was delayed due to alleged extortion.

In October last year, former PNP chief General Camilo Cascolan said around 2,600 units of body cameras were expected to be delivered

But by December, PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Ildebrandi Usana reportedly said that the procurement of the body cameras was still "in process."

"More than two years since the budget for the body cameras for police was approved, the PNP has yet to complete the procurement and distribution of the devices meant to increase police accountability and transparency," the Makabayan bloc said in their resolution.

The lawmakers said video documentation is needed now more than ever following the shooting of Sonya and Frank Gregorio by Police Staff Sergeant Jonel Nuezca in December, as well as the recent killings of nine Tumandok indigenous people during simultaneous police and military operations in Capiz and Iloilo.

"Immediate use of the budget could potentially curb further police abuse and excesses against civilians. The continued delay in the implementation of body cameras used by police is a disservice to the people," they added.

Members of the Makabayan bloc include Bayan Muna party-list Representatives Carlos Zarate, Ferdinand Gaite, and Eufemia Cullamat, Gabriela Women's Party Representative Arlene Brosas, ACT Teachers party-list Representative France Castro, and Kabataan party-list Representative Sarah Elago.—AOL, GMA News