- Cotabato-based individual flew drone without permit: DCPO
A VLOGGER was apprehended and fined on Tuesday night, Dec. 3, for violating the city’s Drone Regulation Ordinance, the Davao City Police Office reported.
During the Davao Peace and Security press briefing held at The Royal Mandaya Hotel on Wednesday, Dec. 4, DCPO spokesperson Captain Hazel Tuazon said the Cotabato-based vlogger was brought to the Police Station 2 in San Pedro and his drone was turned over to the Public Safety and Security Office (PSSO).
Although the vlogger claimed to be unaware of the ordinance, Tuazon said it did not exempt him from facing a fine.
As amended, Sec. 9 outlines the penalties for offenses like non-registration, falsification, and operating drones in restricted airspace. The fines range from P3,000 for a first offense to P5,000 for a second offense, along with the confiscation of the drone.
The police and authorized enforcement officers have the authority to apprehend offenders. They can also neutralize drones deemed dangerous to public safety.
“Drone operators must obtain a permit from the PSSO before flying in the city,” she added.
Meanwhile, as of 7:30 a.m. on Dec. 4, the DCPO reported no incidents related to terrorism, insurgency, maritime security and safety, or criminality. Tuazon also said the Pasko Fiesta celebration is peaceful so far.
File Photo by Bing Gonzales