‘One key aspect that comes to mind with the increased reliance on cameras and digital technology for traffic management is the role of the current traffic enforcers. With potentially fewer enforcers needed on the ground, the question arises: what will happen to the approximately 2,500 MMDA traffic personnel?’
I have been closely following the rollout of the NCAP, and it has certainly raised some interesting points. While the promise of transparency, improved traffic flow, and enhanced road safety through AI-powered CCTV and digital tools is appealing, the real-world impact on Metro Manila’s notorious traffic congestion remains to be seen.
Like many motorists and commuters, the thought of worsening traffic is something I’d like to avoid. This is why I generally support the NCAP initiative, provided it is built on a solid and comprehensive foundation of planning and execution.
One key aspect that comes to mind with the increased reliance on cameras and digital technology for traffic management is the role of the current traffic enforcers. With potentially fewer enforcers needed on the ground, the question arises: What will happen to the approximately 2,500 MMDA traffic personnel?
Considering the reported monthly expenditure of P11,800 per enforcer, totaling a significant annual cost of P354 million, the MMDA, under the leadership of Chairman Romando Artes, faces a challenging decision. With the NCAP already in effect, various scenarios must have been considered.
The decision regarding the traffic enforcers carries significant implications. If non-performing personnel, particularly those under Contract of Service, are not addressed, it could lead to public criticism. Conversely, while terminating these contracts could result in substantial savings, potentially 60% to 75% of the annual budget, it might have political repercussions down the line.
It would also be insightful to understand the projected annual revenue from NCAP in Metro Manila. Given the investment in AI-equipped CCTV infrastructure, I am sure Chairman Artes’s office has estimated figures suggesting an expectation of considerable returns.
The fines for NCAP violations, such as P500 for Disregarding Traffic Signs and P1,000 for Illegal Parking, among others, are clearly intended to encourage adherence to traffic laws and improve safety. With a substantial number of registered and unregistered vehicles in Metro Manila, these penalties could have a significant impact on driaver behavior and traffic flow. Paayments can be made conveniently online or at designated offices.
However, the implementation of NCAP in Metro Manila which is being enforced in the major thoroughfares, namely, Circumferential Roads (C1: Recto; C2: Mendoza, Pres. Quirino Ave.; C3: Araneta Ave.; C4: EDSA; and C5: C.P. Garcia, Katipunan, Tandang Sora) and Radial Roads (R1: Roxas Blvd.; R2: Taft Ave.; R3: South Super Highway / Osmena Highway; R4: Shaw Blvd.; R5: Ortigas Ave.; R6: Magsaysay Blvd., Aurora Blvd.; R7: Commonwealth Ave.; R8: A. Bonifacio; R9: Rizal Ave.; and R10: Delpan, Marcos Highway, McArthur Highway) also presents several areas that require careful consideration:
1. Accuracy of Violations: Ensuring that violations captured by cameras reflect the complete context is crucial. Instances of individuals receiving tickets for vehicles they no longer own highlight the need for accurate record-keeping and fair processing of violations.
2. Public Awareness: Many drivers might not be fully informed about specific requirements, such as the need for a notarized deed of sale after selling a vehicle. Comprehensive public awareness campaigns are essential.
3. Scope of Enforcement: The Supreme Court’s ruling limits NCAP enforcement to national roads under the MMDA’s jurisdiction. Clear understanding and communication of these boundaries are necessary.4. Visibility of Signage: Ensuring that all NCAP-enforced areas have clear and prominent road signs and markings is vital to avoid unwarranted citations.
5. Transparency and Accountability: Automation should not compromise accountability. Clear processes for violation detection, footage auditing, appeals, and safeguards against wrongful charges are necessary to build public trust.
These points underscore the need for continuous evaluation and refinement of the NCAP guidelines by MMDA to ensure its effectiveness and fairness.
In this context, it is beneficial to explore how similar programs have been implemented and evolved in other countries.
Australia (ANCAP)
Since 1992, ANCAP has prioritized both crashworthiness and active safety technologies, often surpassing global standards.
In summary, while the MMDA NCAP focuses on traffic law enforcement in Metro Manila, ANCAP is dedicated to improving vehicle safety standards in Australia and New Zealand. Both programs aim to enhance road safety but operate in different domains and with different methodologies.
Southeast Asia (ASEAN NCAP)
Established in 2011, ASEAN NCAP emphasizes safety assist technologies in its rating system. It was created through a collaboration between the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS) and the Global New Car Assessment Program (Global NCAP).
In summary, while the MMDA NCAP focuses on traffic law enforcement in Metro Manila, ASEAN NCAP is dedicated to improving vehicle safety standards across Southeast Asia. Both programs aim to enhance road safety but operate in different domains and with different methodologies.
Europe (Euro NCAP)
Known for its rigorous testing since 1997, Euro NCAP mandates safety assist features for higher ratings.
In summary, while the MMDA NCAP focuses on traffic law enforcement in Metro Manila, Euro NCAP is dedicated to improving vehicle safety standards across Europe. Both programs aim to enhance road safety but operate in different domains and with different methodologies.
China (C-NCAP)
Launched in 2006, C-NCAP, managed by the China Automotive Technology and Research Center, focuses on crash testing and safety evaluations for vehicles sold in China.
In summary, while C-NCAP focuses on improving vehicle safety standards in China through crash tests and safety evaluations, MMDA NCAP is dedicated to enforcing traffic laws in Metro Manila using digital monitoring and non-contact methods. Both programs aim to enhance road safety but operate in different domains and with different methodologies.
By studying the experiences and approaches of these international programs, the MMDA can gain valuable insights to further optimize the NCAP for the specific conditions and challenges of Metro Manila.
