No Contact Apprehension Policy Faces Legal Hurdles
The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has urgently appealed to the Supreme Court to lift the temporary restraining order on the no contact apprehension policy. This policy relies on cameras and other digital devices to catch vehicles violating traffic rules without physically stopping them.
MMDA Chairperson Romando Artes emphasized that the no contact apprehension policy is essential to ease worsening traffic congestion on EDSA, especially during ongoing road rehabilitation. He explained that stopping motorists to issue tickets contributes to heavier traffic jams.
Legal Background of the No Contact Apprehension Policy
The no contact apprehension policy uses closed-circuit televisions and digital cameras to capture violations, allowing authorities to issue fines based on these recordings. However, in August 2022, the Supreme Court issued a temporary restraining order against this policy after several transport groups challenged local government ordinances implementing it.
The challenge came from groups representing transport operators who claimed that the policy violates constitutional rights. One major point of contention is that vehicle owners, not necessarily the drivers, are held responsible for paying fines under this system.
MMDA’s Next Steps if Appeal is Denied
Should the Supreme Court deny the MMDA’s motion, the agency is considering applying the no contact apprehension policy specifically to buses. This alternative is seen as a way to still address traffic violations without worsening congestion.
Previously, the Land Transportation Office advised local governments to suspend and review their no contact apprehension policies due to concerns raised by transport groups and vehicle owners.
Balancing Traffic Management and Legal Concerns
The debate around the no contact apprehension policy highlights the challenge of enforcing traffic laws while respecting legal rights. Authorities argue that technology-based enforcement reduces the need for physical stops that worsen traffic, while critics worry about fairness and due process.
Despite the controversies, the MMDA remains firm that the no contact apprehension policy is a necessary tool for managing Metro Manila’s heavy traffic, especially on major roads like EDSA undergoing rehabilitation.
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