The Senate on Monday approved on third and final reading Senate Bill No. 1908, or the Law Enforcement Body-Worn Camera Act, which would require police and other law enforcement personnel to wear cameras during official operations.
The measure, co-sponsored by Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, is intended to provide a clear record of law enforcement actions and strengthen accountability in the conduct of operations.
Go said the bill reflects a need for better documentation of police activity, which can prevent misunderstandings between officers and civilians.
“Kapag may body-worn camera, may maayos na record kung ano talaga ang nangyari. Nakakatulong ito para maprotektahan ang publiko at pati na rin ang mga pulis,” he said.
“Kung may malinaw na video at audio record, mas madaling masuri kung tama ba ang naging proseso sa operasyon. Makakatulong ito para maiwasan ang hindi pagkakaunawaan at para malinaw ang pananagutan kung may pagkakamali.” he added
The proposed legislation mandates that officers from the Philippine National Police, National Bureau of Investigation, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, and Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency activate body-worn cameras during arrests, searches, and other enforcement actions.
Recordings will serve as evidence in investigations or court proceedings, with strict provisions on storage, retention, and handling to ensure the integrity of the footage.
Go emphasized that clear documentation is crucial not only for accountability but also for public trust. “Kung maayos ang ginawa sa operasyon, makikita iyon sa recordings. Kung may kailangang imbestigahan, may malinaw na ebidensyang mapag-aaralan,” he said.
The measure also outlines penalties for officers who fail to use the cameras properly or tamper with recordings, aiming to ensure compliance across agencies.
In past hearings, police officials have acknowledged the potential benefits of body-worn cameras, describing them as tools for transparency, accountability, and training.
PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has previously said such devices could serve as “instruments of truth,” reflecting a growing institutional interest in modernizing law enforcement practices.
Go said he sees the bill as part of broader efforts to improve public confidence in law enforcement. By documenting operations clearly, the measure could reduce disputes, clarify contentious incidents, and provide a framework for reviewing police conduct objectively.
“Mahalaga na malinaw ang bawat hakbang sa operasyon ng ating mga alagad ng batas. Kapag may body-worn camera, may maayos na record kung ano talaga ang nangyari,” he said.