Did you know what the No Contact Apprehension Policy (NCAP) is? It has sparked heated discussions among netizens due to its significant impact on motorists in Metro Manila. Understanding the facts about NCAP can help you avoid apprehension while driving in the city. However, amid these trending debates, a flood of misinformation has also emerged, leading to fear, confusion, and disbelief among the public.
These myths about the NCAP have caused frustration for many, especially as school opening is near, as many students tend to take motorcycle taxis. In this article, we’ll debunk the most common myths about NCAP and set the record straight, using facts, not fear.
What Is the No Contact Apprehension Policy?
The No Contact Apprehension Policy (NCAP) is a traffic enforcement system used in Manila that allows the MMDA to issue tickets or notices of violation to traffic offenders without directly apprehending the driver on the road. According to MMDA Resolution No. 02-49, the adoption of this system aims to reduce instances of traffic extortion and bribery involving enforcers.
The NCAP uses CCTV (Closed-Circuit Television) cameras, instead of enforcers, to capture and record traffic violations. According to the MMDA, NCAP utilizes AI to pinpoint violators, in addition to operators who monitor the CCTV footage 24/7. This is evidence that AI and technology can significantly assist us in many aspects of life and social interaction.
Nevertheless, the reinstatement of NCAP, after the Supreme Court lifted its suspension on May 20, 2025, sparked significant controversy. The main issue raised regarding the enforcement of NCAP is that, in the opinion of some legal experts, it is “contrary to the constitutional right to due process” of motorists.
Additionally, ordinary motorists have frequently questioned the technological reliability of the “No Contact Apprehension Policy,” which may result in false positives (e.g., obscured plates, misreadings).
Where MMDA’s NCAP Is Enforced and What the Fines Are
The resumption of NCAP enforcement is evident in many photos of major roads in Metro Manila circulating on the internet. The Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has enforced NCAP on most circumferential and radial roads in Metro Manila. See the table below listing the roads where the MMDA’s “No Contact Apprehension Policy” is currently being enforced.
| Circumferential Roads | Radial Roads |
|---|---|
| C1: Recto Avenue C2: Mendoza Street, President Quirino Avenue C3: Araneta Avenue C4: Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA) C5: Carlos P. Garcia Avenue, Katipunan Avenue, Tandang Sora Avenue | R1: Roxas Boulevard R2: Taft Avenue R3: South Super Highway R4: Shaw Boulevard R5: Ortigas Avenue R6: Magsaysay Boulevard, Aurora Boulevard R7: Quezon Avenue, Commonwealth Avenue R8: A. Bonifacio Avenue R9: Rizal Avenue R10: Del Pan Street, Marcos Highway, MacArthur Highway |
Many motorists want to know the possible fines or penalties they may face if caught by NCAP. Just like in physical apprehension, violations captured through NCAP will follow the official list of fines and penalties for CY2024. You can see the most common violations listed below.
- Disregarding Traffic Signs: ₱1,000
- Illegal Use of EDSA Busway or Motorcycle Lane: ₱5,000
- Illegal Loading/Unloading: ₱1,000
- Obstruction: ₱1,000
- Failure to Use Seatbelt: ₱1,000
- Reckless Driving: ₱1,000
- Illegal Parking (Attended): ₱1,000
- Illegal Parking (Unattended): ₱2,000 (plus towing fees)
- Failure to Give Proper Signal: ₱150
- Driving in Slippers (Motorcycle Riders): ₱100
- No Helmet (Motorcycle Riders): ₱1,500
Top 5 NCAP Myths Debunked
Due to misinformation on social media, many myths about the NCAP have emerged from nowhere. Learning the truth about these myths is very important to avoid fear among motorists. Always check the source of the information before believing it.
Myth 1: NCAP is unconstitutional
The constitutionality of the No Contact Apprehension Policy is currently under judicial review by the Supreme Court. In August 2022, the Supreme Court issued a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) against the implementation of NCAP by both the MMDA and LGUs, as many petitioners questioned its constitutionality.
However, on May 20, the Supreme Court lifted the TRO on the MMDA’s NCAP, allowing its reinstatement. Meanwhile, the LGUs’ version of the system remains suspended. The question of the constitutionality of NCAP remains unresolved and is subject to future rulings by the Supreme Court.
Myth 2: You can’t contest an NCAP violation
The reality is that you can always contest any violation issued by the MMDA, whether through physical apprehension or the No Contact Apprehension Policy (NCAP). You can visit the MMDA office in person to file your contest for the notice of violation you received. Alternatively, you can submit it online through the MMDA Traffic Adjudication Division (TAD) online form. Just make sure to have evidence that proves your innocence against the violation listed in the notice.
Myth 3: All NCAP fines are excessive
Not all fines under the No Contact Apprehension Policy (NCAP) are excessive. The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has structured fines to be commensurate with the severity of traffic violations, aiming to promote road safety and discipline without imposing undue financial burdens on motorists.
The MMDA has established a tiered fine system for various traffic violations captured under NCAP. For instance, minor infractions may incur lower fines, while more serious violations could result in higher penalties. You can check if you have a violation caught by NCAP through the Official NCAP Portal.
Myth 4: NCAP cameras are 100% accurate
While NCAP cameras use advanced technology to capture traffic violations, they are not infallible. Several factors can affect the accuracy of these camera systems, which is why human review and appeals are integral parts of the process. The limitations include environmental factors, capture clarity, and technical issues. To mitigate these limitations, the MMDA employs manual review of all violations captured by NCAP cameras before fines are issued.
Myth 5: You can be arrested for non-payment of NCAP fines
Non-payment of NCAP fines is a civil penalty, not a criminal offense, you cannot be arrested for failing to pay them. However, there are administrative consequences that affect your vehicle’s legal standing.
FAQs about NCAP Implementation
The No Contact Apprehension Policy (NCAP) is a traffic enforcement system used in Manila that allows the MMDA to issue tickets or notices of violation to traffic offenders without directly apprehending the driver on the road.
You can pay your NCAP violation in person, the online platform is currently in development.
Non-payment of NCAP fines is a civil penalty, not a criminal offense, you cannot be arrested for failing to pay them. However, there are administrative consequences that affect your vehicle’s legal standing.
NCAP violations are issued to the registered vehicle owner, regardless of who was driving. However, you can file an appeal and submit supporting evidence.
