MMDA eyes apprehension monitoring app

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) announced Wednesday the upcoming launch of a mobile application that will allow motorists to track apprehensions made under the No Contact Apprehension Policy (NCAP).

MMDA chairperson Atty. Don Artes said the app will enable drivers to check if they have incurred traffic violations.

“We will launch an app so motorists can monitor if they have been apprehended. They should register to the app. We already have that app but we have to revise it for the Data Privacy Act,” Artes said.

He added that during a Senate hearing on Tuesday, transport groups expressed support for the reinstatement of NCAP and suggested including local government units in the policy, saying that the MMDA is prepared to address motorists’ concerns regarding NCAP implementation, such as unclear signage.

Also, Artes clarified that artificial intelligence (AI) cameras are currently installed only along EDSA, but installation is underway on other roads. He explained that an alleged violation captured by AI cameras undergoes two automatic reviews, followed by a supervisor’s approval if the violation is confirmed.

Regarding unclear road markings, Artes assured that trained personnel and the AI-equipped cameras can automatically invalidate violations if signage is faulty. He added that the system can also discern if a vehicle ran a red light to give way to an emergency vehicle.

Artes reported that in the initial two days of NCAP implementation, motorists appeared more cautious, with only over 600 violations recorded.

He stressed that NCAP is not intended as a revenue-generating program but aims to instill discipline among motorists.

“Rest assured, we will fix the implementation of NCAP because we are not trigger-happy. We are lenient. We don’t issue a ticket just because someone slightly crosses a line,” Artes said.