MAJOR transport groups in Metro Manila are questioning the decision of several local government units (LGUs) to push through with the reimplementation of the Non-Contact Apprehension Policy (NCAP), pointing out that a Motion for Reconsideration (MR) regarding the policy remains pending before the Supreme Court.
Transport leaders Boy Vargas of ALTODAP, Obet Martin of Pasang Masda, and Liberty De Luna of ACTO asserted that the local governments of Manila, Quezon City, Valenzuela, Parañaque, Muntinlupa, and San Juan should hold off on enforcement until the high court issues a final and executory ruling on the system’s legality.
The transport federations originally challenged the policy in 2022, arguing that it lacked statutory backing and violated due process, particularly for public utility vehicle (PUV) operators.
Although the Supreme Court dismissed their initial petition in June, the groups filed a Motion for Reconsideration on August 5, which they argue forms a vital part of ongoing legal remedies.
“While I am not a lawyer, my understanding of the law is that implementation should wait because our group has a pending appeal,” Vargas said in Filipino, adding that delaying the rollout would not cause a major loss for the LGUs.
Martin echoed this sentiment, noting that their legal counsel confirmed the initial dismissal lacked a “final and executory” status, leaving them the legal right to pursue an appeal.
Despite these objections, the affected LGUs are moving forward with the resumption of NCAP using CCTV and digital cameras to record traffic violations.
The rollout follows a Supreme Court decision made public in July that lifted remaining temporary restraining orders against the local ordinances.
De Luna made a direct appeal to local chief executives to respect the judicial process and give the courts time to reach a definitive conclusion.
“We are ready to follow whatever the Supreme Court rules,” De Luna stated. “Out of respect for the process and the public transport sector, we ask that you suspend implementation for now.”