NCAP Recap: Here Is What Every Driver Should Know

Imagine this: You're cruising down EDSA when a reckless driver suddenly swerves across lanes like they own the road. You catch their plate number, and realize they're violating the number coding scheme. You instinctively look around for enforcers, but see none.

That's because the No Contact Apprehension Policy (NCAP) is in effect on that road, and instead of waiting for traffic enforcers to flag violators on the spot, CCTV cameras and AI-powered systems are doing the job behind the scenes.

What Is NCAP, Again?

NCAP is a digital traffic enforcement system where traffic violations are recorded using CCTV cameras and artificial intelligence. Instead of face-to-face apprehension, the system sends a Notice of Violation (NOV) to the vehicle's registered owner.

This aims to:

• Reduce corruption by removing face-to-face enforcement
• Ensure violations are backed by visual evidence
• Promote safer, more disciplined driving behavior

Though it was suspended in 2022, NCAP resumed on May 26, 2025, with new guidelines to ensure greater transparency and consistency.

How the NCAP Process Works

Here's how violations are handled under NCAP:

1. CCTV cameras and AI systems monitor major Metro Manila roads for traffic violations.
2. Each captured violation is manually reviewed by MMDA personnel, meaning an actual staff member reviews the footage to verify that a traffic violation occurred before issuing a citation.
3. The vehicle's information is verified through the LTO database.
4. The validated violation is entered into the NCAP system.
5. A NOV is sent via physical mail to the vehicle's registered owner, within 5–7 days of the incident.
6. The owner must either pay the fine within 10 working days or file an appeal.

Where Is NCAP Being Enforced?

NCAP is not active on all roads. It's currently enforced on select Circumferential (C) and Radial (R) roads in Metro Manila:

• C1 – Recto Avenue
• C2 – Mendoza Street, Pres. Quirino Avenue
• C3 – Araneta Avenue
• C4 – EDSA
• C5 – C.P. Garcia Avenue, Katipunan Avenue, Tandang Sora
• R1 – Roxas Boulevard
• R2 – Taft Avenue
• R3 – South Superhighway
• R4 – Shaw Boulevard
• R5 – Ortigas Avenue
• R6 – Magsaysay Boulevard, Aurora Boulevard
• R7 – Quezon Avenue, Commonwealth Avenue
• R8 – A. Bonifacio Avenue
• R9 – Rizal Avenue
• R10 – Del Pan, Marcos Highway, McArthur Highway

How to Avoid a Violation

The best way to avoid getting flagged is to know and understand the traffic rules. Study common violations and their fines using the MMDA's official list.

How to Check If You've Been Caught

The "May Huli Ka 2.0" online portal allows you to check if you've received an NCAP violation:

• Visit: https://mayhulika.mmda.gov.ph
• Input your plate or conduction sticker number and MV (motor vehicle) file number
• You'll see your violation history, payment status, and appeal options

How to Pay

Payment options vary depending on the city where the violation occurred, and all available methods will be detailed in your NOV. You are required to settle the fine within 10 working days from the date you receive the notice. Failure to pay within this period may result in additional penalties, possible license renewal issues, or further enforcement actions depending on local regulations. Common payment channels include:

Online:

• Landbank Link.BizPortal
• Maya
• GCash
• GrabPay
• Bayad App

In Person:

• MMDA Head Office, Julia Vargas Ave., Pasig
• Bayad Centers
• SM Bills Payment
• LBC

Note: If payment is not made on time, your plate number will be added to the LTO alarm list, which may prevent you from renewing your registration.

How to File an Appeal

Think you were wrongly flagged by the NCAP system? You have the right to challenge the violation by filing an appeal.

Steps to Appeal:

1. Review the NOV for accuracy.
2. Collect supporting evidence (e.g., photos, dashcam footage, proof of sale, or authorization letters).
3. File your appeal online or in person at the MMDA Traffic Adjudication Division, located at Julia Vargas Ave. corner Molave St., Brgy. Ugong, Pasig City. Office hours are Monday to Friday, 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
4. After submission, track your case status using your assigned case number.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What if someone else was driving my car when the violation happened?

A: Under NCAP, the NOV will be sent to the registered vehicle owner. To contest, you'll need to submit an affidavit from both you and the actual driver, along with a copy of the driver's license, to prove you weren't the one driving.

Q: Can I still renew my vehicle registration if I haven't paid the NCAP fine?

A: No. Your vehicle may be flagged by the LTO until all violations are settled.

Q: What documents do I need to file a dispute?

A: Valid ID, NOV, vehicle documents (OR/CR), and any supporting evidence (e.g., dashcam footage, proof of sale, affidavits).

Q: How long does the appeal process take?

A: It depends on the volume of cases, but you should receive a response within several working days. You may follow up using your case number.

Your NCAP Cheat Sheet

• NCAP is active on major Metro Manila roads using AI and CCTV footage to catch violators.
• You'll receive a Notice of Violation (NOV) via mail within 5–7 days.
• Pay the fine within 10 working days, or file an appeal if the violation is questionable.
• Check your violations here: https://mayhulika.mmda.gov.ph
• Ignoring NCAP can result in registration delays and added penalties.

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The best way to avoid any issues with NCAP is to stay informed and drive responsibly. After all, the goal of the system isn't just to penalize violators, but rather, it's to create safer, more orderly roads for everyone.