Proposal for a Trial Period on No Contact Apprehension Program
Senator Joseph Victor “JV” Ejercito recently called for a trial period before fully implementing the No Contact Apprehension Program (NCAP) to address any system glitches. He emphasized that the first day of NCAP implementation revealed the most common traffic violations, which included disobeying traffic signs and illegal use of bus lanes.
“Lumabas na ang mga karaniwang violations ay pagsuway sa traffic signs at ilegal na paggamit ng busway. Pwedeng ibig sabihin nito’y kailangan pang paigtingin ang disiplina sa kalsada,” Ejercito said, underlining the need for stricter road discipline.
He expressed support for the program if it helps improve traffic management, stating, “Kung makakatulong ang NCAP sa layuning ito ay suportado natin ito—gaya ng suporta natin sa iba pang hakbang na makakatulong sa pagsasaayos ng sistema ng trapiko sa Metro Manila at iba pang urban centers.”
Ensuring Proper Implementation and Protection of Motorists’ Rights
According to sources familiar with the matter, Ejercito urged the Department of Transportation (DOTr), the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to utilize this period to ensure the NCAP is implemented correctly. This includes safeguarding the rights of motorists and passengers, preventing any undue hardship as the program rolls out.
He hopes this initiative will not only guide motorists to obey traffic laws but also serve as a wake-up call for government agencies to effectively fulfill their responsibilities. “Maging gabay sana ito hindi lang para sa mga motorista para sumunod sa batas-trapiko, kundi wake-up call din para sa mga ahensya na gampanan nang maayos ang kanilang mandato,” he added.
Critical Infrastructure and Education for Better Traffic Compliance
Local experts highlight the importance of ensuring proper traffic infrastructure, including clear road markings and visible traffic signs, as part of the NCAP’s success. Enhancing motorists’ education campaigns and aligning local ordinances with national guidelines on penalties and fines are also vital steps during this trial phase.
Ejercito further suggested that the implementation of motorcycle or shared lanes could be tested in selected areas. However, he stressed the need to reconsider the current ban on motorcycles using overpasses and underpasses. “Ang pag-implement ng motorcycle o shared lanes ay pwedeng subukang ipatupad sa mga piling lugar. Pero dapat muling pag-aralan at i-reconsider ang pagbabawal sa mga motorsiklo sa mga overpass at underpass,” he explained.
Moving Forward with a Measured Approach
The senator concluded by recommending a reasonable trial period for the No Contact Apprehension Program before enforcing it fully. This approach would allow authorities to address any technical issues and ensure the program effectively contributes to improved traffic management without disadvantaging motorists.
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