The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has begun the use of body-worn cameras to support the implementation of the No Contact Apprehension Policy (NCAP), through its newly-formed Swift Traffic Action Group (STAG).
MMDA Chairman Don Artes stated that the initiative is part of the agency’s ongoing efforts to adopt modern technologies that allow for the strict enforcement of traffic rules and regulations. It also aims to minimize direct interaction and potential arguments between motorists and traffic enforcers during road clearing operations.
“We will expand the coverage once the ban on street parking in Metro Manila is approved.”
“The use of body-worn cameras is part of the innovations for the NCAP. It will initially cover key Metro Manila thoroughfares and designated Mabuhay Lanes. Eventually, we will expand the coverage once the ban on street parking in Metro Manila is approved,” Artes said during the launch held at the MMDA Communications and Command Center, MMDA Head Office in Pasig City.
President Ferdinand Bongbong Marcos Jr. recently expressed support for the NCAP being implemented by the MMDA, emphasizing that the policy promotes road safety and discipline and helps combat corruption.
Chairman Artes also cited MMDA Resolution No. 16-01, Series of 2016, which allows for the use of digital cameras, CCTV, and/or other new technologies in the enforcement of traffic policies such as NCAP.
STAG personnel, under the leadership of Traffic Operations Officer IV Edison “Bong” Nebrija, are equipped with body-worn cameras linked to the MMDA Communications and Command Center to ensure real-time monitoring and documentation of on-ground operations.
To ensure transparency and accuracy, the MMDA STAG implements a buddy system during road clearing operations. Under this setup, the assigned traffic enforcer will wear the body camera serving as the camera coder, while his/her team member will issue and record the notice of violation.
“All STAG personnel have undergone comprehensive training on the proper use of the devices, adherence to data privacy protocols, and compliance with standard operating procedures to ensure lawful and ethical use.”
“All STAG personnel have undergone comprehensive training on the proper use of the devices, adherence to data privacy protocols, and compliance with standard operating procedures to ensure lawful and ethical use,” Artes emphasized.
The first wave of anti-illegal parking operations will be spearheaded by the STAG. After a week, the area will be reassessed by the Special Operations Group – Task Force for Road Clearing (SOG-TFRC), led by Traffic Operations Officer III Gabriel Go, to ensure sustained compliance and to implement further clearing operations as necessary.
Artes clarified that there will be no overlapping of functions between the two groups.
STAG focuses on no-contact apprehension using body cameras, while SOG-TFRC is equipped with tow trucks for the physical clearing of illegally parked vehicles, which includes towing, if necessary.
If a driver is present, the notice of violation will be handed directly to them. If no driver is present, the notice will be placed on the vehicle’s windshield.
At the end of every STAG operation, according to the MMDA chief, all body cameras are returned to their designated docking stations, where high-definition footage is uploaded to the MMDA Communications and Command Center. All recorded apprehensions will be subjected to manual review by NCAP personnel.
As of September 8, a total of 65,918 violations have been captured through the NCAP, with 36,255 already validated.
