Implementation of No-Contact Apprehension Policy Reduces Traffic Violations
The initial rollout of the No-Contact Apprehension Policy (NCAP) by the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority has led to a significant drop in traffic violations, local officials report. According to sources familiar with the matter, the policy has resulted in about 2,800 fewer recorded infractions on its first day.
This data was shared during a joint Senate hearing focused on public services, infrastructure, and finance. One senator raised concerns about how NCAP will adapt alongside the upcoming EDSA rehabilitation and the odd-even number coding scheme. “So habang ongoing yung rehabilitation sa EDSA, so paano itong NCAP kasi especially dun sa number scheme?” he asked, highlighting public interest in the policy’s integration with existing traffic regulations.
Traffic Violations Drop Amid EDSA Rehabilitation Plans
An official from the MMDA Traffic Enforcement Group revealed that on the first day of NCAP enforcement, 1,112 violations were recorded. Most of these involved ignoring traffic signs, misuse of bus and motorcycle lanes, and loading or unloading in prohibited areas. In contrast, the week prior saw 3,982 violations, indicating a decrease of nearly 2,800 cases.
“As compared po last week, May 19, naregister po namin is 3,982…Makikita natin na nagbawas ng 2,800 violators. So it’s really a deterrent,” said the official. This shows that the presence of NCAP is already influencing driver behavior positively.
Effectiveness During Number Coding Hours
The official further explained that during the number coding hours from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m., many drivers still ventured out but were captured by the system. “Lalong-lalo na po alam naman natin ang mga Pilipino para-paraan kapag coding siya 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. maraming lumalabas ho nacacapture namin yan. E kapag may enforcer sisingit-singit, iiwas… maluwag kasi yung mga usual nagviviolate ng coding ay di lumabas,” he added. This suggests that enforcement through NCAP complements the physical presence of traffic enforcers.
Broader Implementation Across Metro Manila
The NCAP is not limited to EDSA but also covers major roads like Recto, Mendoza, Quirino Avenue, Araneta Avenue, CP Garcia, Katipunan Avenue, Tandang Sora, Roxas Boulevard, Taft Avenue, South Superhighway, Shaw Boulevard, Ortigas Avenue, Magsaysay Boulevard, Aurora Boulevard, Quezon Avenue, Commonwealth Avenue, A. Bonifacio, Rizal Avenue, Delpan, Marcos Highway, and MacArthur Highway.
Community leaders from driver associations have expressed support for the MMDA to manage NCAP citywide instead of local government units. A representative said, “Kung maari po, MMDA na lang ang mag-man ng NCAP sa the whole of Metro Manila, huwag na po ang local government natin.” This preference stems from a belief that a unified management body would ensure consistency and effectiveness.
Looking Ahead
With EDSA’s rehabilitation set to begin in June, the decrease in violations recorded under NCAP is a promising indicator. Local experts view this as a critical development to help ease traffic congestion and improve road discipline throughout Metro Manila.
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