Have you ever received a traffic ticket you didn’t even see coming? No one stopped you, but weeks later, a notice showed up at your door. That’s how the No Contact Apprehension Policy, or NCAP, works. It uses traffic cameras to catch violations and sends you a notice after the fact.
NCAP was paused in 2022, but it’s now being reintroduced in 2025 with new rules, better systems, and more areas covered. Here’s everything you need to know so you don’t end up with unexpected fines.
What is NCAP?
NCAP is a traffic enforcement system that uses CCTV cameras. If you beat the red light, make an illegal turn, or park where you shouldn’t, the cameras will catch it. Instead of being flagged by an officer, you’ll get a violation notice by mail, email, or through an online portal.
This system aims to make traffic enforcement more consistent and less prone to bribery. But if you’re not paying attention, you could easily miss a violation and only find out later.
Why Was It Suspended?
The Supreme Court stopped NCAP in 2022 because of concerns about fairness. Some of the problems raised included:
- Fines being too high
- Owners being held responsible even if someone else was driving
- Lack of clear ways to contest a violation
While NCAP was on hold, traffic violations increased. That’s one reason why it’s being brought back, with changes meant to make it clearer and fairer for everyone.
Where is NCAP Being Enforced?
As of May 26, 2025, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has restarted NCAP on certain major roads in Metro Manila. These roads include:
Circumferential Roads:
- C1: Recto Avenue
- C2: Mendoza St. / President Quirino Ave
- C3: Araneta Avenue
- C4: EDSA
- C5: Katipunan Ave., C.P. Garcia Av.e, Tandang Sora Ave.
Radial Roads:
- R1: Roxas Boulevard
- R2: Taft Avenue
- R3: South Superhighway
- R4: Shaw Boulevard
- R5: Ortigas Avenue
- R6: Magsaysay Blvd, Aurora Blvd
- R7: Quezon Ave, Commonwealth Ave
- R8: A. Bonifacio Avenue
- R9: Rizal Avenue
- R10: Marcos Highway, MacArthur Highway, Del Pan Street
NCAP is only being enforced in areas where the signs and road markings are clear. Cities like Manila, Quezon City, Parañaque, and Valenzuela still have NCAP suspended until further notice.
How to Pay or Appeal a Violation
To Pay:
You can pay NCAP fines through:
- Online: Pay via the Landbank Link.BizPortal
- In Person: Visit the MMDA offices at Robinsons Galleria (Ortigas) or MMDA Head Office in Pasig
To Appeal:
- Review the notice and verify the details
- Prepare supporting evidence (e.g., photos, dashcam footage)
- File an appeal online via the QR code or at the MMDA office
- Wait for the resolution and follow up using your case number
Appeals must be submitted before the deadline on your notice.
What’s New in 2025?
Standardized Fines
Cities in Metro Manila now follow the same fines for the 20 most common violations. For example:
- Ignoring traffic signs: ₱1,000
- Illegal parking: ₱1,000 if you’re in the car, ₱2,000 if unattended
- Counterflow: ₱2,000 for the first offense, ₱5,000 for the second
You can now pay these fines online through GCash, Maya, or Landbank.
Clearer Signs and More Coverage
One complaint before was that drivers didn’t know they were in an NCAP zone. This time, cities are required to install clear signage. More cities outside Metro Manila are also preparing to adopt NCAP once they get the go-ahead.
LTO Will Now Be More Involved
The LTO is also now using MMDA camera footage to issue Show Cause Orders. These are formal notices that require you to explain a violation. If you ignore them, your license could be suspended or your registration blocked. The LTO is also bringing back “alarm tags” on vehicles with unpaid fines. If you have any unresolved violations, you’ll need to settle them before you can renew your registration.
Avoid Scams
Since NCAP went on hold, there have been scams where people receive fake violation messages. These usually include a sketchy link asking for payment. Official notices will come from verified sources, include full details about the violation, and point you to proper payment portals. If something feels off, always double-check with the MMDA or your local traffic office.
How to Avoid NCAP Fines
- Learn the standard fines so you know what to expect
- Drive carefully on all roads, even those not covered by NCAP
- Check your plate online regularly to avoid missing any notices
- Make sure your contact info with the LTO is updated
- If you receive a violation, pay or appeal it within the given time
NCAP is coming back stronger this year, with better systems, more transparency, and wider coverage. It’s not perfect, but it’s here to improve road discipline and reduce corruption. If you follow traffic rules and stay updated, you won’t need to worry about surprise penalties.
Just DriveSafe and responsibly. Simple as that.
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