MMDA exec backs nationwide 'no-contact apprehension policy'

Despite complaints from operators, a Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) official on Tuesday expressed support for a nationwide implementation of no-contact apprehension policy.

“Mas mabuti po kung nationwide po i-implement ito. Lahat ng siyudad po ay kung i-implement ito mas mabuti nang para sa ganun uniform tayo,” MMDA Task Force Special Operations chief Bong Nebrija said at a public briefing.

(It is better if the no-contact apprehension policy would be implemented nationwide. If all cities will implement this, it would be better so our policy would be uniform.)

On Monday, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) reiterated its call to local government units in the National Capital Region to temporarily suspend the policy's implementation amid concerns.

LTO chief Teofilo Guadiz III called on the mayors of Manila, Quezon City, Parañaque City, Valenzuela City and Muntinlupa City to sit down with the LTO and MMDA to create uniform guidelines.

Some mayors, however, have already voiced their opposition to the proposed suspension of the policy.

While the no-contact apprehension policy helps traffic enforcers on the ground in flagging violators, Nebrija said that issues should be discussed among stakeholders.

According to the LTO, one of the “most hotly contested aspects” of the policy is the payment of fines where the registered owners of the vehicles are the ones who are asked to pay for the penalties.

Operators of public utility vehicles have been complaining about paying fines for the traffic violations of their drivers.

Four transport groups filed a petition before the Supreme Court, asking to suspend the no contact apprehension because it is unconstitutional and invalid, the LTO said. The LTO is also a respondent in the petition. —KBK, GMA News