Abalos: Harness artificial intelligence to outsmart criminals

Benhur Abalos surrounded by common folk in one of his provincial sorties

MANILA, Philippines – Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas senatorial candidate Benjamin “Benhur” Abalos, Jr. is pushing for increased investments in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and advanced CCTV surveillance as essential tools to fight criminal elements and further improve the peace and order in the country.

Abalos with President Bongbong Marcos

Drawing from his observations of advanced security systems in countries like the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Abalos emphasized that AI-powered surveillance could enhance public safety and strengthen crime-fighting efforts in the Philippines.

“Sa UAE na isa sa pinakatahimik na bansa, ang mga CCTV ay talagang interconnected, lahat. Talagang doon pahirapan gumawa ng krimen at hindi lamang ‘yon, yung camera is really AI na,” said Abalos.

Abalos with other Alyansa candidates before local media in a out of town presscon

“More than that, these cameras are AI-driven, meaning they can identify suspects even if they attempt to disguise themselves,” he added.

He pointed to AI-powered facial recognition technology, which can detect individuals despite efforts to alter their appearance, according to Abalos.

As a former secretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), which oversees the Philippine National Police (PNP), Abalos witnessed firsthand how surveillance footage—whether from CCTV cameras or mobile phones—played a critical role in solving crimes.

For instance, he said viral videos uploaded by netizens or drawn from CCTVs often provide crucial leads to police investigators.

“Imagine the existing surveillance cameras installed by local government units and along EDSA—if these were integrated into a nationwide AI-driven system, tracking criminal activity would become significantly easier,” he said. “Even in minor incidents like road accidents, CCTV footage is often the first source of evidence.”

Abalos said there is a need to invest in AI technology in order for the government, through its law enforcers, to become at least one step ahead of criminal elements.

With the internet turning into the favorite playground of criminals, Abalos said providing the PNP with essential tools like digital technology, training programs and other equipment would be a wise investment to combat criminality.

“AI is not just about catching criminals—it’s about preventing crime before it happens,” he said.