Camera-based traffic enforcement returns to five Metro Manila cities

MANILA — Camera-based traffic enforcement will resume in five Metro Manila municipalities beginning Monday, October 5, as the No Contact Apprehension Policy (NCAP) returns to roads across the capital region.

The implementation follows a Supreme Court decision to lift a temporary restraining order that had halted the automated enforcement system. The policy will be rolled out in Manila, Muntinlupa, Parañaque, Quezon City, and San Juan, marking the restoration of one of the metropolitan area's primary traffic violation detection mechanisms.

The system uses fixed and mobile cameras to capture violations such as running red lights, illegal turns, and other traffic infractions. Motorists detected by the cameras receive citations without requiring a police officer to stop their vehicle — hence the "no contact" designation.

The reimplementation comes after months of legal challenges and suspension that had effectively paused automated enforcement operations. Officials have indicated that additional cities, including Valenzuela, may follow with their own NCAP rollouts in subsequent phases.

Motoring groups and commuters have expressed mixed reactions to the policy's return, with safety advocates supporting the measure while some drivers have raised concerns about enforcement procedures and fine payment mechanisms.