CAMPUS security officials are preparing to install “panic buttons” across strategic open areas in UST to improve emergency response.
These buttons will enable Thomasians to alert security personnel of hazards and other emergencies immediately, according to Assoc. Prof. Juliano Parena Jr., head of the UST Campus Safety and Security Office.
“We have already approved the proof of concept. Maglalagay tayo ng panic buttons so that the students or other stakeholders of the University, once they feel any danger or they want to report something, hindi na sila dumiretso ng security office,” Parena told the Varsitarian.
“The moment you press the button, it will be immediately answered by security personnel, and any help or assistance can then be broadcast over the radio so that our quick response team and security personnel near the incident can assist,” he added.
Initial locations planned for the panic buttons include the UST Grandstand, Arch of the Centuries, and Plaza Mayor.
These buttons will be wired directly to the command center of the Campus of Security Office, which will be tasked to “handle the daily operations of the school’s safety and security” as part of the envisioned revamp of the office.
Parena added that panic buttons would eliminate the need to memorize emergency hotlines.
Another project in the works is door access control devices designed to improve the monitoring of those who enter and exit UST’s research laboratories and other facilities.
“For example, an access control device is placed in a lab, you need to log in using biometrics, RFID, or code to gain access, and this access log is immediately forwarded to the command center,” Parena explained. “That way, we are able to monitor who has accessed the said facility.”
“The reason for that one is because our research laboratories, primarily, they work 24/7. Para lang mas mayroon tayong security when it comes to those people who are accessing the laboratories.”
More surveillance devices or closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras will also be installed after the security office identifies blind spots around the campus perimeter.
“Through the years, we have already identified that even if we have a lot of cameras, there are still blind spots. So para ma-improve ‘yon, nakalatag na actually. May layout na nandyan, it’s just going to be executed kung kailan ikakabit,” Parena said.
Some cameras have already been worn down after years of use or are already outdated in terms of image quality.
“Generally, sa mga big open spaces natin na areas, nakita kasi na after several years of use, some camera resolutions were not that clear or need replacement, or some areas need the installation of additional cameras,” he added.
Parena said security upgrades were meant to respond to evolving threats.
“‘Yong hazards kasi ng panahon natin, iba na doon sa naunang panahon. So, we have to adjust our security features.”
