(Photo courtesy of PIA)
MANILA – Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko” Moreno Domagoso warned motorists that traffic violators will have little room to evade penalties as the city begins implementing its enhanced No Contact Apprehension Policy (NCAP 2.0).
Domagoso said the system is intended to strengthen road discipline by using technology to detect and document traffic violations without direct intervention from traffic enforcers.
“Those who abuse our roads no longer have an excuse because today, we are starting to implement non-contact apprehension,” Domagoso said during the regular flag-raising ceremony at Manila City Hall.
The mayor recalled that hundreds of thousands of motorists were apprehended when the system was implemented during his first term, which he said highlighted persistent problems with traffic discipline.
Domagoso said technology would provide objective evidence of violations and reduce disputes between motorists and traffic personnel.
“You cannot argue with technology. We may argue with our enforcer, but with technology, huli is huli. Walang gusot,” he said.
He also urged motorists not to ignore notices of violation sent to their homes, warning that failure to settle penalties could result in additional fines.
Domagoso said the system would apply equally to motorists regardless of their social or economic status and could help reduce opportunities for favoritism and corruption in traffic enforcement.
“Here in non-contact apprehension, everyone is equal. If you violate the rules, you get a penalty,” he said.
The mayor added that NCAP could help curb “kotong” or extortion because motorists cited through the automated system would have no roadside interaction with traffic enforcers where illegal settlements could occur.
Domagoso also called on government employees to set an example by complying with traffic regulations.
“Non-contact apprehension applies to everyone, regardless of status. Those of us in government should serve as examples in following traffic laws,” he said.
