SC Partially Reinstates NCAP: What Drivers Need to Know

In a landmark decision that could significantly affect Metro Manila's traffic enforcement, the Supreme Court (SC) has partially lifted the temporary restraining order (TRO) on the No Contact Apprehension Policy (NCAP). This development means that the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) can now resume implementing NCAP on major roads under its jurisdiction.

What is the No Contact Apprehension Policy (NCAP)?

The NCAP is a traffic monitoring system that uses high-resolution, AI-powered cameras installed on key roads to automatically detect and penalize traffic violations. It removes the need for traffic enforcers on the ground by recording violations and issuing fines via mail or online systems.

This policy aims to

• Deter traffic violators
  
• Minimize bribery and corruption
  
• Improve traffic flow
• Enhance overall road safety

Why Was NCAP Suspended?

In August 2022, the Supreme Court issued a TRO halting the implementation of NCAP in response to petitions questioning its legality and constitutionality. Key points raised by petitioners like KAPIT (Kilusan sa Pagbabago ng Industriya ng Transportasyon, Inc.) included:

• Lack of due process for motorists
  
  
• Absence of enabling legislation in the MMDA Law (RA 7924) and Land Transportation Code (RA 4136)
  
  
• Questionable legal authority of LGUs to enforce NCAP through ordinances
  
  

This led to a complete halt in NCAP implementation across LGUs and MMDA-controlled roads.

What the Supreme Court Decided in May 2025

On May 20, 2025, the SC granted the Urgent Motion filed by the Office of the Solicitor General on behalf of the MMDA. The court partially lifted the TRO, allowing only the MMDA to implement NCAP on major roads it controls, including

• EDSA
  
• C5
  
• Commonwealth Avenue
  
• Roxas Boulevard
  
• Quezon Avenue
  
• Katipunan Avenue
  
• E. Rodriguez Avenue
  
• Marcos Highway
  
• West Avenue
  
• Buendia

Local Government Units (LGUs), however, remain barred from implementing their own NCAP versions pending further rulings.

Source: Inquirer.net

Why the TRO Was Lifted

Solicitor General Menardo Guevarra cited alarming increases in traffic violations and accidents since the suspension of NCAP in 2022:

• Over 833,000 traffic violations recorded since the TRO
  
  
• More than 12,000 violations in March 2025 alone
  
  
• Difficulty in apprehending violators due to limited traffic personnel
  
  

The SC was convinced that public interest and road safety warranted partial resumption of the policy, at least for roads under MMDA jurisdiction.

What This Means for Motorists

If you regularly travel on Metro Manila’s major roads, NCAP enforcement is back starting May 26, 2025. Here’s what you need to know:

Key Reminders:

• Violations like beating the red light, illegal turns, overspeeding, and ignoring pedestrian lanes will be monitored by camera.
  
  
• Fines and notices will be sent electronically or by mail.
  
  
• Check your plate number regularly via MMDA or LTO systems to avoid accumulating penalties.

Final Thoughts

The Supreme Court’s partial lifting of the TRO signals a renewed effort to uphold discipline on Metro Manila’s busiest roads. While debates about NCAP’s implementation continue, one thing is clear: motorists must be more vigilant than ever.

Whether you're for or against NCAP, the best way to stay safe—and fine-free—is to obey traffic laws, maintain valid insurance, and stay updated on traffic enforcement changes, maintain valid insurance, and stay updated on traffic enforcement changes.