No-Contact Apprehension Policy Returns on Major Metro Manila Roads
Starting Monday, May 26, the No-Contact Apprehension Policy will be reintroduced along key thoroughfares in Metro Manila, especially on EDSA and C5 Road. Many motorists are feeling anxious as they prepare for this enforcement, which aims to improve traffic discipline by relying on technology rather than physical apprehension.
The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) explains that the policy is straightforward: it depends on the same traffic rules learned during formal driving courses. However, for those who learned driving informally from family or friends, understanding and following traffic signs and road markings is crucial.
Common Violations and How to Avoid Them
Reckless swerving and illegal turns top the list of frequent violations caught by the new system. Drivers must pay close attention to white and yellow road lines and obey traffic signs, as these cues are linked to AI-enabled cameras installed along major roads. Other typical offenses include disregarding signs, illegal parking (both attended and unattended), number coding violations, reckless driving, and causing obstructions.
Aside from EDSA and C5, the policy will also cover Commonwealth Avenue, Ortigas Avenue, Roxas Boulevard, the Mabuhay Lanes, and other major routes where MMDA enforcers usually operate. The recent lifting of the temporary restraining order has encouraged authorities to expand enforcement, with plans to install about 1,000 additional high-definition cameras throughout Metro Manila.
Understanding How the No-Contact Apprehension Policy Works
The policy operates by using CCTV cameras to capture traffic violations instead of direct apprehension by enforcers. When a violation occurs, the camera records the vehicle’s image and license plate. Subsequently, a notice is sent to the registered owner’s address based on Land Transportation Office records. This notice details the violation’s time, location, nature, and the corresponding fine.
Transparency remains a priority. All violations are reviewed by MMDA personnel before sending notices to filter out any errors. Since AI systems can sometimes misinterpret situations, human review ensures fairness. For example, a swerving vehicle might be flagged, but the driver could have swerved to avoid an unrecorded obstacle.
What Motorists Should Do If They Receive a Violation Notice
Motorists who receive a violation notice have the right to contest it. The appeal process is convenient and accessible online via the MMDA’s official Facebook page and website. Vehicle owners can fill out a form to dispute the violation without needing to visit MMDA offices. The agency may even provide video footage of the alleged offense.
An adjudication division will handle all complaints, ensuring motorists a proper hearing. If the registered vehicle owner was not driving at the time, they should coordinate with the actual driver to explain the situation and decide whether to contest or settle the fine.
For families where a spouse or partner committed the violation, it’s advisable to address the matter calmly. As one community leader put it, “…don’t forget to apologize when you bring up the issue to them, or better yet, shut up and just own up to the violation to avoid more troubles.” This approach helps maintain harmony while resolving the issue responsibly.
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