Traffic MMDA's No-Contact Apprehension Policy Sees Significant Drop in Traffic Violations

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Picture courtesy of Manila Bulletin

 

The initial rollout of the No-Contact Apprehension Policy (NCAP) by the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has led to a notable decrease in traffic violations, with approximately 2,800 fewer incidents recorded compared to the previous week, an official announced on May 27.

 

During a Senate hearing addressing the policy, MMDA Traffic Enforcement Group Director Atty. Victor Nuñez revealed that on the first day of NCAP's implementation, 1,112 violations were documented. These primarily involved issues such as ignoring traffic signs, misuse of the EDSA bus and motorcycle lanes, and improper loading and unloading.

 

This marked improvement from the 3,982 violations recorded just a week prior highlights NCAP’s effectiveness as a deterrent, especially as Manila prepares for EDSA's upcoming rehabilitation and the concurrent odd-even traffic scheme.

 

Nuñez remarked on the consistency of traffic flow, noting that the policy captured those attempting to circumvent the number coding scheme during peak hours. He observed that habitual violators, known to dodge enforcers by weaving through traffic, appeared to be deterred by the NCAP’s watchful digital presence.

 

With the impending EDSA rehabilitation in June, this reduction in violations is particularly significant, projecting smoother traffic conditions during construction.

 

NCAP has been implemented across critical Manila thoroughfares including Recto, Quirino Avenue, and Commonwealth Avenue, among others. The policy employs digital monitoring to enforce traffic rules without the need for physical police presence at every intersection.

 

In related discussions, Roberto "Ka Obet" Martin, president of the Pangkalahatang Sangguniang Manila and Suburbs Drivers Association Nationwide (Pasang-Masda), voiced support for the MMDA's management of NCAP, suggesting that it operate at a metropolitan level rather than being fragmented across local government units (LGUs). Martin, along with other transport associations, has petitioned the Supreme Court for a Temporary Restraining Order against LGU-managed NCAP implementations but expressed preference for the MMDA’s cohesive approach.

 

Martin's statement reflects a broader sentiment for a unified traffic management system under MMDA’s jurisdiction, as Manila seeks more efficient solutions to its notorious traffic challenges. This centralized approach could streamline operations, enhance enforcement consistency, and continue reducing violations citywide.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Manila Bulletin 2025-05-27