MMDA Installs NCAP CCTVs in Private Schools
The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has started installing closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras in private schools along major roads in Metro Manila as part of the reimplementation of the No Contact Apprehension Policy (NCAP). This initiative aims to help ease traffic congestion and enforce traffic rules more effectively.
MMDA chair Don Artes announced this development during a recent meeting with representatives from several private schools at the MMDA office in Pasig City. Schools present included Ateneo de Manila University, La Salle Greenhills, Saint Pedro Poveda College, Miriam College, Xavier School, and Immaculate Conception Academy.
Addressing Traffic Violations and Congestion
According to Artes, installing NCAP CCTVs in schools targets common traffic violations such as illegal loading and unloading. By using these cameras, the MMDA hopes to reduce human error and issues related to traffic enforcers.
“We will remove our enforcers from the schools because what is happening is that we are being accused that our enforcers are accepting bribes. So that instead of managing traffic, what is happening is they are protecting those who are still obstructing,” Artes said.
He added, “So, more likely, we will pull out the enforcers, and the CCTV will catch (traffic violators). We’ll just put enforcers in place to manage the traffic.” This shift highlights the agency’s push for more transparent and efficient traffic monitoring.
Current CCTV Installations and Next Steps
The MMDA chief also revealed that CCTVs with similar functions have already been installed at key points along Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (Edsa), including Balintawak Market Southbound, MCU Northbound, Taft Avenue Northbound, and Guadix.
School representatives expressed support for the initiative but raised concerns about clear guidelines for managing loading and unloading activities on school premises. They emphasized the need for consistent traffic rules to ensure smooth operations.
Artes assured them that the MMDA is developing specific guidelines, with CCTV installations expected to finish within the next one to two weeks. He also mentioned plans to hold individual meetings with school representatives next week to facilitate swift and smooth implementation.
NCAP’s Reimplementation and Coverage
Reimplemented on May 26, the No Contact Apprehension Policy operates 24/7 along 10 major radial roads in Metro Manila, including Edsa, Commonwealth Avenue, Roxas Boulevard, Taft Avenue, and Aurora Boulevard. The policy relies on CCTV cameras to monitor traffic violations automatically without physical apprehension.
This move to install NCAP CCTVs in private schools is a significant step in expanding the policy’s reach and improving traffic management around educational institutions.
For more news and updates on MMDA and traffic policies, visit Filipinokami.com.
