Is Metro Manila ready for the re-implementation of NCAP?
Road safety is a paramount concern in every society, with countless lives at stake. To address the persistent issue of traffic violations and reduce the occurrence of road accidents, governments and traffic management authorities worldwide have been seeking innovative solutions. The no-contact apprehension policy (NCAP) which utilizes advanced technology and automation, aims to revolutionize road safety by deterring traffic violations and improving overall compliance with traffic laws.
Back in August 2022, the NCAP for traffic violators in Metro Manila faced a temporary restraining order (TRO) issued by the Supreme Court.
The TRO effectively put a halt to the implementation of NCAP-related programs and ordinances, prohibiting any apprehensions under these policies until further orders from the Court.
Furthermore, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) and all associated parties were instructed to refrain from sharing motorist information with government units, cities, and municipalities responsible for enforcing NCAP programs and ordinances.
However, recent events have sparked renewed discussions regarding the reinstatement of NCAP. On June 14, 2023, a fatal accident occurred at the EDSA Shaw Boulevard tunnel involving a motorcycle driver and an SUV driver. Both were occupying the EDSA Carousel Bus Lane, leading to the motorcycle driver being struck by a tanker driver in the adjacent lane.
In response, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) swiftly collaborated with the Office of the Solicitor General to file a motion before the Supreme Court, seeking the lifting of the temporary restraining order on NCAP implementation. While the incident was tragic, MMDA Acting Chairman Romando Artes emphasized the need for CCTV-assisted apprehension to ensure the exclusivity and safety of designated lanes.
Artes highlighted the increase in road accidents and traffic violations since the suspension of NCAP in August of the previous year. Despite repeated reminders, many drivers continue to disregard the policy, posing risks to themselves and others.
The essence of NCAP lies in its ability to apprehend traffic violators without direct interaction between law enforcement officers and motorists. Traditional methods of traffic enforcement, such as on-site traffic stops, often require police officers to confront violators directly, creating potential risks for both parties. However, NCAP introduces a new paradigm, leveraging technology to monitor and capture violations remotely.
The impact of NCAP on road safety has been remarkable. By eliminating the need for face-to-face confrontations, NCAP ensures a safer working environment for law enforcement officers. Additionally, the knowledge that violations can be identified and penalized without direct intervention has acted as a powerful deterrent for potential offenders.
Apart from the MMDA, Metro Manila Council President and San Juan Mayor Francis Zamora are also advocating for the reconsideration of the TRO on NCAP. Zamora referred to MMDA data indicating a significant rise in violations from August 2022 to May of the current year, averaging 25,926 per month compared to 9,500 monthly violations before the suspension. He emphasized that it is challenging to have traffic enforcers covering every corner of Metro Manila and highlighted how NCAP deters motorists from committing traffic violations.
For road safety advocates, NCAP represents progress in the enforcement of traffic laws. However, discussions on lifting the TRO are gaining momentum, especially considering the benefits observed during NCAP’s implementation in San Juan, Quezon City, Manila, Valenzuela City, Muntinlupa City, and Paranaque City. These cities reported a decrease in obstructions, traffic congestion caused by apprehended vehicles, reckless driving, and hazardous habits among motorists.
It is regrettable that it took a tragic incident to shed light on the advantages of NCAP. With these benefits and the upcoming pilot test of the Single Ticketing System (STS) handheld device in July, spearheaded by the MMDA, the time has come for the TRO to be lifted. The STS will enable local government units in Metro Manila to enforce traffic laws more effectively and establish a harmonized transport and traffic management system that aligns national and local regulations.
NCAP relies on a network of surveillance cameras, artificial intelligence, and automated systems to detect and record traffic violations. These systems are strategically placed in key locations to monitor traffic flow and identify various offenses, including speeding, running red lights, illegal overtaking, and unauthorized lane usage. Once a violation is detected, the system captures relevant evidence, such as photographs or videos, along with key details like the vehicle’s license plate number.
Furthermore, the implementation of NCAP has led to increased compliance with traffic laws. Motorists are more likely to adhere to speed limits, traffic signals, and other regulations, knowing that violations will be recorded and result in appropriate penalties. This shift in behavior contributes to a more disciplined and law-abiding driving culture, significantly reducing the risk of accidents caused by reckless driving.
One of the significant advantages of NCAP is its accuracy and efficiency in identifying traffic violations. The integration of advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence algorithms and high-resolution cameras, ensures accurate detection and minimizes the margin for error. This, in turn, promotes fairness and eliminates disputes that may arise from subjective interpretations during manual enforcement.
Moreover, NCAP streamlines the enforcement process by automating violation detection and documentation. Traffic management authorities can efficiently review captured evidence, verify violations, and issue penalties, leading to faster and more streamlined enforcement procedures. The saved time and resources can then be redirected towards other critical aspects of road safety, such as education and infrastructure improvements.
The No-Contact Apprehension Policy (NCAP) is a groundbreaking approach to enhancing road safety. By harnessing the power of technology and automation, NCAP provides a safer working environment for law enforcement officers, deters potential violators, and improves overall compliance with traffic laws. With its remarkable impact on reducing road accidents and promoting a culture of responsible driving, NCAP stands as a beacon of hope in the relentless pursuit of road safety. As we continue to embrace advancements in technology, the widespread adoption of NCAP could pave the way for a safer and more secure future on our roads.
