Metro-wide NCAP rollout sought

MANILA, Philippines — Metro Manila Council president Francis Zamora is pushing for a metro-wide rollout of the No Contact Apprehension Policy or NCAP, saying a uniform system would complement the region’s single ticketing scheme and make traffic enforcement more consistent.

Manila, San Juan, Quezon City, Valenzuela, Parañaque and Muntinlupa are set to resume the localized NCAP implementation on Monday, after the Supreme Court lifted the temporary restraining order and dismissed consolidated petitions challenging the program. 

Zamora, also San Juan’s mayor, told The STAR yesterday that he would raise the possibility of a wider rollout with other Metro Manila mayors, although each local government remains free to decide whether to adopt the system.

“Personally, I think it would be better if we have NCAP Metro Manila-wide,” Zamora said.

He added that the Metro Manila Traffic Code of 2023 already provides standardized fines and penalties for 20 common traffic violations, making a region-wide NCAP system more practical.

Under San Juan’s setup, the private service provider QPAX will operate the NCAP equipment, but the city government will make the final determination on whether a recorded violation is valid.

Zamora said motorists would have 10 days from receipt of the violation notice to contest an apprehension before the city’s adjudication board. He warned motorists of scams, noting that legitimate NCAP notices are sent through physical mail.

“There is no such thing as digital billing. There will be no billing or notice of violation through text, Viber or email,” Zamora said. “Just believe the formal communication sent through physical mail.”

The SC said the NCAP was intended to help ease traffic congestion and curb opportunities for corruption. The system uses digital cameras to record traffic violations, with standardized penalties.

Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez, Philippine National Police chief, said the PNP would assist local governments in implementing NCAP.

“We urge motorists to view NCAP as a tool for promoting safer roads and responsible driving,” Nartatez said. — Emmanuel Tupas