Transport Groups Protest No Contact Apprehension Policy
Several transport organizations, including the Pagkakaisa ng mga Samahan ng Tsuper at Operator Nationwide (PISTON) and Manibela, began their four-day protests across Metro Manila on Monday, June 2. They are demanding a complete stop to the No Contact Apprehension Policy (NCAP) enforced by the national government to ease traffic congestion.
The groups argue that the NCAP, especially the fines issued by the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) to violators, is unfair. They claim it is nearly impossible for public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers to pay such fines given their limited earnings.
Additional Demands from Protesters
Besides opposing NCAP, the rallyists also called for the repeal of the oil deregulation law and rejected the mandatory franchise consolidation under the Public Transport Modernization Program. PISTON announced that their protests will continue until June 5, with actions planned in cities nationwide, including Baguio, Bacolod, Cebu, and Iloilo.
MMDA Responds to Transport Groups’ Concerns
In response, the MMDA expressed respect for the freedom of expression of groups opposing the No Contact Apprehension Policy, especially those from the transportation sector. The agency assured the public that they will thoroughly review the issues raised and seek solutions to address them.
“Nirerespeto ng Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) ang kalayaan sa pagpapahayag ng mga grupong tumututol sa implementasyon ng No Contact Apprehension Policy (NCAP), partikular na ang mga nasa sektor ng transportasyon. Susuriin ng MMDA ang mga concerns tungkol sa NCAP at titiyakin na masosolusyonan ang mga ito,” the agency said.
MMDA Seeks to Promote Road Discipline
Earlier, on May 20, the MMDA highlighted that beyond easing traffic congestion, the NCAP program aims to encourage discipline among motorists. They noted that the single ticketing system and updated NCAP guidelines have addressed previous concerns raised by stakeholders.
“As the implementation of NCAP resumes, we hope to instill road discipline among motorists. Rest assured that the single ticketing system and new NCAP guidelines have addressed concerns raised in the petition,” the MMDA added.
Background on NCAP Implementation
The No Contact Apprehension Policy was initially adopted in February 2016 through an MMDA resolution. It covers five local government units in Metro Manila: Manila, Quezon City, Valenzuela, Muntinlupa, and Parañaque. Its purpose is to monitor and manage traffic violations without direct confrontation between enforcers and motorists.
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