MMDA proposes community service to replace NCAP fines

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority is looking into replacing fines from its No-Contact Apprehension Policy with community service for traffic violators.

MMDA Chairman Romando Artes announced this proposal last June 16, which is still under study for endorsement to the Metro Manila Council, the policy-making body of Metro Manila mayors.

“Pinag-aaralan na po namin, for endorsement sa Metro Manila Council, na instead of fine or penalty ay community service,” he said.

Artes suggested that making violators perform community service, such as cleaning drainages and waterways, could help the MMDA's flood prevention efforts. While details are still being worked out, he mentioned a potential system where service hours would correspond to the fine amount.

“Siguro maglalagay kami ng oras per amount. Sa ngayon wala pa pong detalye pero pinag-aaralan na po natin.”

He also defended the policy, stating it's not a "money-making business" but a tool for discipline and road monitoring even without enforcers.

“Sinasabi po na negosyo itong NCAP. Hindi po. Ito ay para disiplinahin ang tao, bantayan ang kalsada kahit wala kaming enforcers,” Artes said.

Just recently, MMDA announced that violators can now verify and track them through a dedicated website called "May Huli Ka."

The NCAP was reimplemented last May 26.

Under the policy, an MMDA operator at the command center reviews and confirms footage when a traffic violation is committed. The operator then checks the vehicle's registration details. Once verified, the operator inputs the violation into the NCAP system, which automatically generates and delivers a notice of violation to the motorist's registered address.

Currently, NCAP fines range from P150 to P10,000 for top violations, depending on how often they occur. (with reports from Ghio Ong)