Surigao del Norte 2nd district Rep. Robert Ace Barbers sought an investigation of the complaints about the no-contact apprehension policy (NCAP) enforced by the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and local government units (LGU).
“While the objective is laudable. The NCAP implementation gave rise to more questions than answers. It took a life of its own and became a problem by itself. An additional burden and a source of corruption institutionalized by the state,” he said in his privilege speech on Tuesday, Aug. 9.
Barbers said MMDA in coordination with the Land Transport Office (LTO) and LGU has implemented the policy.
However, he said there are overlapping violation notices from the MMDA and LGU. One vehicle owner is cited for one violation by two different entities.
“In the past, there was a so-called unified ticketing system. So that there will be uniform violation citation tickets. What has become of it?” he said.
Barbers also asked to examine penalty fees as he has been receiving complaints that motorists are penalized with large amount.
The solon emphasized that fine must be imposed with due process and claimed that excessive fine is unconstitutional.
Barbers also asked to probe the following: are there enough traffic signs and warnings to all motorists; does the camera clearly capture the alleged violators during heavy rains; is NCAP suspended during calamities; are notices issued to government officials who will violate traffic laws; how much did the LGUs and the MMDA spend on the technology or service and did it undergo proper bidding; and how much is paid to contractors.
Barbers said he hopes that Congress will take action and immediately suspend the NCAP until the issues are not yet addressed.
LTO Chief Secretary Teofilo Guadiz III first called the LGUs to temporarily suspend the NCAP for them to review the implemented guidelines.
NCAP is a policy that utilizes CCTV, digital cameras, and other technology to capture videos and images to apprehend vehicles in Metro Manila that violate traffic laws, rules, and regulations.
