Deputy Speaker and Batangas Rep. Ralph Recto on Thursday expressed belief that the controversial No Contact Apprehension Program (NCAP) needs to undergo further studies and public consultations.
“But even if judicial roadblocks are lifted, the No Contact Apprehension Program should not be resumed until broad consultations, whose end is cure it of its weaknesses, are held,” Recto said.
“Parang sa lansangan lang, “Stop, Look, Listen” is the most prudent approach,” he added.
Recto made the statement in response to the possible return of the NCAP–which uses closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras to spot traffic violations by motorists and pedestrians–this coming April.
“In principle, I agree that CCTVs could be a tool to enhance traffic enforcement, to impose rules – that should be the only motivation, and never to raise revenues,” said.
Recto said the objective is to have uniform rule that binds the entire country. “One way to do this is for Malacañang to step in,” he said.
“The national government must look under NCAP’s hood and tweak and treat the program of its defects. Para kung ibabalik man, walang malawakang reklamo na ang hulicam ay parang hulidap,” Recto stressed.
“As NCAP is getting viral, spreading to other LGUs, the rules must be made clear, so there will be benchmarks as to fines imposed, as well as the limits of ROI of private contractors,” he said.