By Brian Campued
The newly formed Swift Traffic Action Group (STAG) of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has begun using body-worn cameras to support the implementation of the No Contact Apprehension Policy (NCAP), MMDA Chairperson Romando Artes said.
Speaking at the MMDA head office in Pasig City on Wednesday, Artes said that the initiative aims to minimize direct interaction and potential arguments between motorists and traffic enforcers during road clearing operations in Metro Manila’s major thoroughfares and designated Mabuhay Lanes.
“The use of body-worn cameras is part of the innovations for the NCAP,” Artes said, citing MMDA Resolution 16-01, series of 2016, which allows the use of digital cameras, CCTV (closed-circuit television) cameras, and/or other new technologies in the enforcement of traffic policies, such as the NCAP.
“Eventually, we will expand the coverage once the ban on street parking in Metro Manila is approved,” he added, referring to the proposal of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and MMDA to implement a unified “No Parking” scheme in the metropolis.
The 100-member STAG, headed by Traffic Operations Officer IV Edison Nebrija, implements a buddy system, where an assigned enforcer is equipped with a body camera, while the other issues and records the notice of violation.
All body cameras are linked to the MMDA Communications and Command Center for real-time monitoring and documentation of on-ground operations.
“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 stressed.
If a driver is present, the notice of violation would be handed directly to them, and if not, the notice would be placed on the vehicle’s windshield. These apprehensions will still be subjected to manual review by NCAP personnel, the MMDA chief assured motorists.
Meanwhile, Artes clarified that the STAG’s functions will not overlap with those of the Special Operations Group – Task Force for Road Clearing (SOG-TFRC) as the former will only lead the first wave of anti-illegal parking operations, while the latter will reassess the area to ensure sustained compliance and to implement further clearing operations as necessary.
“Dahil limited nga yung team natin, dalawa lang yung teams natin under kay Gab Go for clearing, kaya naglagay tayo ng No Contact Apprehension [Policy] para mas marami yung ma-cover na area, mas mabilis, mas mababalikan,” he explained.
As of Sept. 8, a total of 65,918 violations have been captured through the NCAP, with 36,255 already validated and can be accessed through the “May Huli Ka” website. (with report from Bernard Ferrer / PTV News)
-jpv
