MMDA launches body cameras for NCAP

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority on Wednesday launched the use of body-worn cameras for the No Contact Apprehension Program (NCAP).

For this, the MMDA said the Swift Traffic Action Group (STAG) has been formed to focus on obstruction and illegal parking violations in Metro Manila’s major thoroughfares and designated Mabuhay Lanes.

The group with 100 personnel equipped with body cameras will be headed by Bong Nebrija.

“Sa actual operations po, wala na pong interaction na ganyan. Basta magbi-video lang, iiwan 'yung notice of violation,” MMDA chairperson Romando Artes said during the launch.

(In actual operations, there will be no interaction like that. The personnel will just film it and leave the notice of violation.)

“Kung may driver, iaabot sa kanya 'yung notice. Kung wala, iiwan po sa windshield,” he added.

(If there is a driver, the notice will be handed to them. If there is no driver, it will be left on the windshield.)

According to Artes, the possible violator will only receive a notice of violation initially. The case will be uploaded to the system and will undergo a manual review at the MMDA’s command center.

If the violation is validated, the violator will then receive a ticket through a text message or email within 24 hours from the time of the apprehension. 

The ticket is also viewable on MMDA’s May Huli Ka website. 

NCAP is a policy that uses closed-circuit television, digital cameras and/or other gadgets or technology to capture videos and images to apprehend vehicles violating traffic laws, instead of traffic enforcers on the ground.

Violators can pay fines either online or at the MMDA office. —AOL, GMA Integrated News