The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) apprehended over 500 vehicles on the first day of reimplementing the No Contact Apprehension Policy (NCAP), following the Supreme Court’s partial lifting of the temporary restraining order (TRO) that had suspended the policy since August 30, 2022.
As of 4 p.m. on Monday, the MMDA recorded 582 traffic violations using high-definition CCTV cameras installed along major thoroughfares. Most of the violations involved disobeying traffic signs and unauthorized use of the exclusive EDSA Busway.
MMDA chair Romando Artes said the agency is exploring the use of text messaging to notify motorists of violations, and plans to launch a mobile application to help users check for infractions. Currently, notifications are sent via traditional mail.
Under NCAP, motorists receive a summons that includes a screenshot of the violation, the vehicle’s plate number, and other pertinent details.
They have seven days to either contest the notice through the MMDA Traffic Adjudication Division—available via an online form—or pay the corresponding fine.
The MMDA highlighted the advantages of NCAP, stating it reduces corruption, bribery, and confrontations between motorists and traffic enforcers. With over 1,000 CCTV cameras monitored by Metrobase personnel, the agency has strengthened its ability to enforce traffic rules without needing physical apprehensions.
Key roads covered by the system include EDSA, Commonwealth Avenue, C-5 Road, Roxas Boulevard, Marcos Highway, and Macapagal Avenue.
Unlike local government units (LGUs) with third-party providers, the MMDA runs its NCAP operations internally using its own CCTV network. The agency also pointed out that its penalties are generally lower than those imposed by LGUs but respects the autonomy of each LGU in managing traffic within its jurisdiction.
Meanwhile, Senate President Francis Escudero and Senator Grace Poe urged the MMDA to address implementation gaps in the NCAP, citing the need for fairness, efficiency, and transparency.
Escudero raised concerns over the slow delivery of Notices of Violation and the lack of effective communication channels. “It appears that the entire process is taking too long, and the Notices of Violation are still being sent via snail mail. By the time a motorist receives the notice, they might no longer remember the alleged violation,” he said.
He called on the MMDA to use email and SMS for faster notifications and fix unclear traffic signage and faulty lane markings. “Enforcement must be consistent, and evidence must be indisputable. That’s the only way programs like NCAP will gain public trust,” he added.
Senator Grace Poe acknowledged the agency’s efforts to reduce corruption and improve enforcement using technology, citing successful international models.
“In many advanced countries like London and Singapore, technology helps address enforcement challenges. It’s better to use systems that prevent extortion to ensure order on our roads,” Poe said.
She stressed the need for global-standard systems, including high-resolution cameras with automatic plate recognition, timestamped GPS data, and 99.5 percent system uptime—similar to Singapore’s Electronic Road Pricing system.
Poe also proposed the establishment of an independent review board within the MMDA, the use of electronic notices via SMS, and a user-friendly online portal for appeals. “Drivers should know how and where they can file an appeal,” she said.
Both lawmakers emphasized the need for clearer guidelines, better infrastructure, and more responsive grievance mechanisms to make NCAP effective and publicly acceptable.
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline “MMDA records over 400 violators on day 1 of no contact apprehension policy.”
