The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), transport regulators, motorcycle leaders, and mobility advocates met on Friday for a high-level forum tackling the controversial No Contact Apprehension Program (NCAP), motorcycle lanes, and bicycle infrastructure—issues aimed at finding ways to manage the emerging problem.

The dialogue was held at the MMDA's new headquarters in Ortigas and was led by the MMDA and Angkas, with dozens of groups from the motorcycle, bicycle, and road safety sectors in attendance.

MMDA Traffic Enforcement Group Director Atty. Vic Nuñez laid out alarming figures showing the impact of NCAP’s suspension after August 2022. According to Nuñez, traffic violations jumped to 391,170 in 2023 and 296,333 in 2024, marking a 241% spike in violations after the agency lost its enforcement power under NCAP.

“Once the public realized NCAP was suspended, violations surged. People knew they wouldn’t get notices anymore,” Nuñez said, adding that the rise in infractions correlated with increased road crashes—most involving motorcycles.

The traffic director noted a drop in incidents once NCAP resumed in May 2025. “In just one week, road crashes fell from 38 to 27,” he said, linking enforcement visibility with improved road discipline and safety. “If motorists know someone’s watching, they won’t dare violate traffic rules.”

He also presented data on travel speed, showing that average vehicular speed rose from 23.40 kph in early February to 27.28 kph by late May, when NCAP resumed—an 18% increase.

Angkas co-founder and CEO George Royeca urged constant dialogue with regulators, highlighting that mutual distrust only worsens policy deadlocks. “Let’s have open communication. Even if you come from the other side, it helps to keep talking,” he said.

He raised concerns about perceived inequity in road rules, particularly the removal of big bikes from the motorcycle lane classification, which some claim favors wealthier riders. “There’s this perception that MCL (Motorcycle Classification List) is an elitist regulation. Let’s clarify this with science and safety-based discussion.”

He thanked representatives from brands like Ducati and Triumph, and international safety trainers who joined the forum, pushing for inclusive policymaking.

The riding community was assured by MMDA Chairman Romando Artes that their concerns were being heard. “We’re not here to fight. We’re here to listen and find solutions. But we must also recognize that not everything is within our power. There has to be compromise,” he said.

He emphasized the need for clear rules to prevent deadly accidents, especially involving larger vehicles. “We’ve seen tragic crashes—some of your own. This is why we regulate—not to offend you—but to instill discipline and order.”

The discussion was also joined by MMDA General Manager Procopio Lipana, and over 80 leaders from rider groups, civil society, and safety organizations. Pending confirmations from DOTr Usec. Mon Reyes and LTO Executive Director Greg Pua were noted.

Organizers said the event was just the beginning of a longer conversation, aiming to bridge gaps between policy and street-level realities.

Artes said the agency is not the enemy of the riding community but its friend, as they are ready to listen to their concern and implement programs accepted by all.