Senate President Francis Escudero on Monday urged the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) to ensure the swift, fair and transparent implementation of the Non-Contact Apprehension Policy (NCAP) following the Supreme Court’s decision to lift its temporary restraining order.
Escudero said public response to NCAP’s reinstatement has been largely negative, with motorists questioning the fairness and due process of the system.
“Penalizing motorists based on unclear, confusing, blurred traffic signs would give rise to suspicion that the program is really about monetizing the mistakes of drivers. Government should not profit from penalties caused by vague traffic directions. This is primarily about raising the level of road discipline and not raising revenues,” he clarified.
Escudero expressed concern over how long it may take for notices of violations to reach motorists, raising doubts about the efficiency of the entire process.
According to information from the MMDA, flagged violations will first go through an internal review before being verified with the Land Transportation Office.
Only after verification will notices of violations (NOVs) be printed and mailed to the registered vehicle owner via the Philippine Postal Corporation.
The senate chief pointed out that the appeals process can only begin once a motorist receives the mailed notice, which could take days or even weeks.
“It appears that the whole process takes a long time, and the NOVs are even sent via snail mail. By the time the NOV arrives, the motorist might no longer remember the alleged violation. This should only take days, the faster, the better,” he suggested.
He also emphasized that enforcement must be uniform and without exception to gain public trust.
“This is how programs such as the NCAP will be justified and later on, accepted by all,” he concluded.
