The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority has asked the Land Transportation Office to lift the tagging and alarm set on vehicles for traffic violations captured through the non-contact apprehension policy or NCAP using closed-circuit TV cameras.
The agency made the recommendation to the LTO after the Supreme Court issued a temporary restraining order on the NCAP employed by the MMDA and local government units prior to hearing the complaints against the scheme.
Acting MMDA chairperson Carlo Dimayuga said in his letter to the LTO's database service provider that motor vehicle owners and buyers tagged under NCAP are unable to register or renew their registrations due to the tags.
Prior to the SC order, the MMDA and the various LGUs have asked the LTO not to allow the registration of vehicles with unpaid NCAP traffic tickets. The MMDA said it cannot accept payments being made by NCAP-flagged motorists amid the SC TRO.
"Without violating the Supreme Court TRO and with the higher interest of public service, the MMDA hereby requests Stradcom Corporation to temporarily lift the tagging and alarm of the affected motor vehicles under the MMDA's NCAP," Dimayuga said in his letter.
"This will allow the owners and/or buyers to renew and/or transfer their registration with the LTO," he added.
However, Dimayuga emphasized that the request is without prejudice to the final decision of the Supreme Court and shall be reinstated if and when the high tribunal affirms the legality of the MMDA NCAP.
Also covered by the temporary lift of alarm and tagging are vehicle owners apprehended by the MMDA NCAP who have yet to settle their fines even before the Supreme Court issued the TRO on the policy last 30 August.