MMDA ties up with Metrobank to boost traffic fine collection system

With the number of daily traffic violations expected to surge to 12,000, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) yesterday formally tapped Metrobank to make the collection of fines more convenient to motorists.

Ramon Santiago, head of the MMDA’s No Contact Traffic Apprehensions (NCTA), said they will be able to improve collection now that motorists can simply go the nearest Metrobank branch to pay their dues. Prior to the tieup, violators had to pay fines at 10 designated redemption centers.

The MMDA’s 1,800 traffic enforcers apprehend some 2,700 traffic violators a day. But since the agency plans to acquire an additional 100 cameras this year to aid them in capturing traffic violations on film, offenses are expected to rise to 12,000 a day.

"Considering the anticipated number of total daily apprehensions, the collection system of MMDA is not sufficient to meet the demand. The situation in existing centers has also become prone to irregular activities of very enterprising individuals," Santiago said.

Under the memorandum of agreement signed by MMDA Chairman Bayani Fernando and Metrobank senior executive vice president Angelito Villanueva, motorists can course their payments through Metrobank branches starting April 23.

All MMDA summons would start carrying advisories stating that dues can be forwarded to said establishments. The MMDA clarified there is no additional charge if they avail of the bank system.

"This tieup was actually made so we can have more apprehensions. There would be 12,000 apprehensions a day until discipline reigns in our streets. This is also intended to eliminate possible mulcting from cops because it avoids contact, and besides it is more convenient to pay fines at the bank," Fernando said.

He added that the scheme will especially benefit motorists caught in Metro Manila but have to return to the provinces the following day. They no longer have to travel back to the metropolis. They can save on time, money and effort by simply finding a nearby a Metrobank branch.

At present, the memorandum only covers the NCTA, which has only 30 cameras.

Under the NCTA scheme, enforcers armed with cameras film violators and mail their summons, citing the violation and corresponding fine. They are given a week to pay the amount or else incur a surcharge of P5,000.

He admitted there is no immediate sanction against stubborn motorists who defer the payment of dues. However, their offenses would still catch up with them because they would be "blacklisted."

Once they renew their licenses or register their vehicles with the Land Transportation Office, they would be asked to get a clearance from the MMDA. If they committed a violation, it would be reflected and they would have to pay the accumulated fines, including the impounding rate, which is P40 per day.

The MMDA will soon expand bank collection scheme to include motorists who are issued Traffic Violation Receipts (TVRs).

Fernando added they would also do away with the TVR and replace it with Road Abuser’s Payment Order (RAPO).

When a driver is issued with a TVR, a law enforcer still has to approach the driver and get his license. But under the RAPO system, there will be no contact between the motorist and the traffic enforcer.