When the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) reinstated its No-Contact Apprehension Policy (NCAP) not too long ago, it proudly touted the program as a “new and improved” system powered by advanced artificial intelligence (AI). The upgraded platform, according to the agency, uses cutting-edge technology to automatically detect and identify actual traffic violations before being reviewed and verified by trained traffic operators at the MMDA Command Center in Pasig City.

But, like any system, it is not immune to flaws.

Just recently, a driver took to social media (and MMDA’s Traffic Adjudication) to raise his concern about the NCAP. According to the driver, he was driving a Nissan Kicks, which is a hybrid vehicle and therefore exempted from the Number Coding Scheme under Republic Act 11697, or the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA Law).

Realizing its mistake, the MMDA immediately took action and reversed the traffic violation.

According to the MMDA, its Chairman, Atty. Don Artes immediately approved the appeal and ordered the dismissal of the violation. The MMDA has since issued an apology to the affected motorist.

The agency maintains that of the more than 40,000 motorists cited under NCAP, this can still be considered as an “isolated case,” and that the incident does not diminish the overall effectiveness and purpose of the program.

The agency added that the case proves the MMDA Traffic Adjudication Division’s contest mechanism is both “effective and efficient,” showing that motorists have a fair and working avenue for due process.

In a statement, the MMDA reaffirms its commitment to accountability, saying it recognizes the error, will correct it accordingly, and continue improving its systems to ensure accuracy, transparency, and public trust moving forward.