MMDA in support of NCR mayors’ decision to keep no-contact apprehension

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) on Thursday expressed support for the Metro Manila mayors' decision to keep the no-contact apprehension policy (NCAP) despite a petition filed before the Supreme Court.

In a statement, the MMDA said there is empirical evidence showing that the agency’s version of NCAP continues “to be an effective force multiplier to its traffic forces on the ground.”

“And has, in fact, raised public awareness on and compliance with the existing traffic and transport laws, rules, and regulations. There is no doubt that the same experience is true for the Metro Manila LGUs [local government units],” it said.

The MMDA, citing the Local Government Code of 1991 or Republic Act No. 7160, said it is the policy of the state and LGUs to “enjoy genuine and meaningful local autonomy to enable them to attain their fullest development as self-reliant communities and make them more effective partners in the attainment of national goals.”

The agency said that the law also stated that “any provision on a power of a LGU shall be liberally interpreted in its favor,” adding that any fair and reasonable doubt as to the existence of the power “shall be interpreted in favor of the local government unit concerned.”

“The authority is cognizant of the present concerns surrounding the NCAP and these may be the subject of future collaborative and constructive discussions with all stakeholders in order to craft a wholistic, just, and inclusive NCAP,” it added.

In a joint statement, the mayors also vowed to continuously improve infrastructure and road conditions for a safer environment for their constituents.

The mayors said that the NCAP does not disregard due process, since local governments have traffic adjudication boards where motorists can contest the violations.

Transport groups have asked the Supreme Court to issue a temporary restraining order against local ordinances related to the NCAP in five cities in the National Capital Region.

SC spokesperson Brian Hosaka said the petition was filed against the City of Manila, Quezon City, Valenzuela City, Parañaque City, Muntinlupa City, and the Land Transportation Office (LTO). — Richa Noriega/BM, GMA News