THE Department of Transportation (DOTr) is set to invest P1.25 billion this year in acquiring passive body scanners and body-worn cameras to enhance transport security, Quezon City Rep. Marvin Rillo, a member of the House committee on appropriations, announced on Sunday.
“In the 2025 General Appropriations Law, Congress allocated P800 million for the DOTr’s procurement of passive body scanners,” Rillo stated.
“Additionally, Congress earmarked P450 million for the department’s acquisition of body-worn cameras for transport security personnel,” he added.
Both appropriations are itemized under the DOTr’s P50.7 billion budget for this year, according to Rillo.
“This is a substantial investment in transport security, demonstrating the government’s commitment to improving passenger safety,” Rillo said.
“The use of passive body scanners will help detect prohibited items without causing delays, increasing both security and efficiency, while body-worn cameras will enhance accountability among transport personnel and help deter crimes,” he added.
Rillo made the announcement shortly after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. appointed Vivencio “Vince” Dizon as the new Secretary of Transportation, effective February 21, following the resignation of Jaime Bautista due to health reasons.
The DOTr is responsible for overseeing the country’s air, rail, land, and maritime transportation systems and is mandated to ensure the safety and security of passengers.
The threats to transport security include crime – such as theft, harassment, vandalism, and assault on passengers or staff – as well as terrorism, including bombings, attacks, and sabotage.
