MMDA to extend NCAP vs litterbugs

MANILA, Philippines — Traffic cameras will be used to catch litterbugs, according to the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority.

MMDA general manager Nicolas Torre III said violators would be issued an environmental ticket and fined between P500 and P2,000, depending on the offense.

“When barangay officials are watching, no one dumps trash. But when they leave, residents start dumping again,” Torre said yesterday at the Kapihan sa Manila Bay forum.

Under the expanded no-contact apprehension policy (NCAP), closed-circuit television footage will be reviewed to identify violators and summon them.

Failure to settle fines imposed by the MMDA could lead to a lawsuit, Torre said.

The expanded NCAP is under review and will be rolled out after its demonstration with the media at the command center, the MMDA said.

In 2025, the Supreme Court partially lifted the NCAP on Metro Manila’s major thoroughfares.

A temporary restraining order still stands in local government units.

Meanwhile, the MMDA yesterday launched its “Yes to Ayos” campaign in Malabon to promote public discipline and civic responsibility.

“Through this campaign, we say ‘yes’ to orderly streets, cleaner surroundings, safer neighborhoods and a more livable Metro Manila for all,” MMDA Chairman Romando Artes said.

The campaign, Artes said, would be brought closer to the grassroots level by incorporating “Bayanihan sa Barangay” and “Bayanihan sa Estero,” two of the MMDA’s major programs at the barangay level.