SECURITY guards will be watching over all areas with automated teller machines (ATMs) in Cebu City, if Councilor Noel Wenceslao’s proposed ordinance is approved.
While the police welcomed the measure to deter crimes, the Cebu Bankers Club raised a concern. Their incoming president, Gino Gonzales, said this will be an added financial burden for them especially since there are a lot of ATMs located outside banks.
For Wenceslao, however, “the presence of a security guard or security personnel is helpful in the prevention and deterrence of crime, thus, assigning security guard or security personnel in areas where ATMs are situated would promote protection of life and property.”
In his proposal, security personnel will be required in ATMs situated in banks and other remote site locations like department stores, groceries or convenience stores, among others within Cebu City.
A fine of P2,000 on first offense and P4,000 and P5,000 repeat offenses will be imposed.
If approved, the City Treasurer’s Office and the Cebu City Peace and Order Council will be mandated to draft the implementing rules and regulations of the ordinance within 60 days.
The draft ordinance was referred to the committee on laws for review and comment.
A public hearing will be scheduled later to gather the opinion of stakeholders.
Related Story:
‘Let guards watch over ATM users’