Party-list seeks NCAP probe, delay amid issues

Metro Manila, Philippines - A party-list group is pushing to defer the implementation of a traffic policy on major roads in Metro Manila after a court stay order was lifted and to look into issues surrounding it.

The No Contact Apprehension Policy (NCAP) uses security cameras to flag traffic violators instead of enforcers physically flagging them. The traffic citation is sent to the vehicle owner to settle the penalty.

1-Rider party-list Rep. Rodge Gutierrez filed House Resolution 2293 on Tuesday, May 27, urging the transportation committee to investigate the preparedness of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) in implementing the policy.

The Supreme Court has partially lifted the three-year temporary restraining order on NCAP, allowing its implementation on major roads.

"Its current implementation is flawed and unfairly impacts our motorists. We need clear road signages, transparent ownership transfer processes, and a system that respects due process to ensure fairness,” he said in a statement.

“We cannot allow a system meant to promote road safety to create more problems for our citizens. I am calling for a delay in NCAP’s implementation until the MMDA can demonstrate its readiness and address these critical issues,” Gutierrez stated.

Gutierrez said the party-list’s discussion with the Land Transportation Office seemed to confirm that the system is unprepared.

The lawmaker, however, said the intention behind the program was “commendable.”

The MMDA reinstated the NCAP on Monday with around 1,000 violators recorded.