MMDA expands AI CCTV network to boost NCAP

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) will install 1,000 additional closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras equipped with artificial intelligence (AI) across Metro Manila to strengthen the enforcement of the No Contact Apprehension Policy (NCAP), the agency announced Tuesday.

MMDA Chairman Romando Artes said the new smart cameras will be deployed along EDSA, C5, Commonwealth Avenue, Ortigas Avenue, Roxas Boulevard, and the Mabuhay Lanes to improve monitoring and coverage of traffic violations.

MMDA Traffic Enforcement Group Director Atty. Victor Nuñez confirmed the rollout, saying,

“We’re in the process of putting up more CCTV with AI capabilities in order to expand the range or coverage because there are some areas lacking... so we cannot monitor and we should augment the presence of our enforcers in the area,” Nuñez said.

Nuñez stressed that NCAP helps reduce human intervention and opportunities for bribery or corruption on the road.

“Whoever is on board the vehicle, with the presence of CCTV, they cannot or will have second thought of accepting. Name dropping will also be done away with this. NCAP violators can only receive Notice of Violation,” Nuñez said.

Nuñez said with the implementation of NCAP motorists tend to follow the traffic rules and  regulations in major thoroughfares in Metro Manila.

Nuñez added that compliance with traffic rules has improved in areas where NCAP is active. The policy is enforced 24/7, with three shifts of MMDA personnel monitoring traffic from the command center.

He expressed hope that increased surveillance would lead to fewer road crashes, as motorists would drive more cautiously. He also noted a decrease in number coding violations, and said the agency plans to complement NCAP with occasional physical apprehensions to reinforce discipline.