LTO forms TWG to discuss NCAP, MMDA backs NCR LGUs on implementation

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has formed a Technical Working Group (TWG) that is aimed at discussing issues that surround the no-contact apprehension policy (NCAP).

In a statement, the creation of the TWG was made per directive of LTO Chief Assistant Secretary Teofilo Guadiz III.

The national agency said in a statement that the meeting with local government units (LGU) and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) is expected to push through to craft guidelines that are fair and acceptable to all stakeholders.

“We believe that the talks between the LTO, the LGUs and the MMDA is the best way forward to once and for all come up with fair guidelines on the NCAP’s implementation. We hope the LGUs and its mayors will be more open to receive inputs as to how best the NCAP will be implemented,” Guadiz was quoted as saying.

Although admitting that the agency’s mandate in the NCAP implementation is limited to alarm tagging and the policy being proprietary to LGU as an autonomous body, Guadiz said that the LTO remains willing to engage and discuss matters “to anticipate and iron out possible kinks or loopholes in the policy.”

“We deem the NCAP as a noble, timely and necessary action that will help realize the objective of digitalizing government services through technology. But just like any other policy, implementation will always be a key issue, and putting the policy into practice should be based on the tenets of the law. We hope the LGUs will sit down with the LTO, whose mandate also includes traffic management, so we can provide a fresh perspective on the matter,” Guadiz explained.

“The LTO is a firm believer in harnessing the power of digitalization and the use of technology for a better traffic flow in Metro Manila. We believe that only through an effective, efficient, responsive, and fair NCAP will the LGUs reap its benefits not only for their jurisdictions but for the motoring public in general,” he added.

Meanwhile, the MMDA continues to express its support for the NCAP implementation being implemented by various LGUs in the National Capital Region.

Based on the statement of solidarity signed by MMDA Chair Carlo Dimayuga, the agency cited that the NCAP “was and continues to be a force multiplier to its traffic enforcers on the ground” and has raised awareness on and compliance with the existing rules and regulations on the road.

“There is no doubt that the same experience is true for Metro Manila LGUs,” the statement declared.

“The Metro Manila LGUs, through the Metro Manila Council, are valuable and indispensable partners of the MMDA in the performance of its mandates pursuant to Republic Act No. 7924 and the Authority is regularly in consultation and coordination with them,” the MMDA said.

Photos from Land Transportation Office Facebook Page and Metropolitan Manila Development Authority

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