If you have been receiving a supposed memo from the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) stating that Traffic Enforcers will henceforth not be apprehending violators of traffic rules because of the new No-Contact Apprehension Policy, then the MMDA has just said it is not true.

Celine Pialago, MMDA spokesperson, has just clarified with us that this is an old issue and it has been circulating since last year when the no-contact policy was first initiated. Pialago said it is not true and it did not come from their office.

Goddes Hope Oliveros-Libiran, head of the Transportation Departments Communication group, also clarified that it is not true and it has been addressed since it came out last year. Libiran said enforcers can still apprehend erring motorists because cameras can only determine moving violations but enforcers are still needed for administrative violations like illegal parking and such.

“Not true, kasi enforcers can still apprehend you. Cameras can only determine moving violations. Not administrative violations,” said Libiran.

Still, the “untrue memo” is very informative and if we follow its basic instructions for traffic rules we can avoid being caught by those CCTV cameras that are now in place all over Metro Manila.

The memo goes like this:

MMDA reminders:
Starting this Friday, the NO CONTACT POLICY shall be enforced This means that no MMDA traffic enforcer will flag down any driver for any traffic violation on the road but instead, will monitor violations onscreen via the CCTV camera. Consequently, car registered owners will be informed of violations via post mail and shall be given only 5 days to contest the violations. If the MMDA office does not receive any contest after 10 days, MMDA shall effect a prescribed fine and shall indicate or show the fine during registration renewal.

Please remind yourself whenever you drive or your driver to remember to:
1. Buckle up (this includes all passengers in the car – the CCTV camera is so accurate as to show if passengers are properly buckled up);
2. Maintain lanes for private vehicles (the yellow lanes will strictly be for buses and public utility vehicles) unless you are turning right;
3. Shift lanes only on broken lines (and never on solid lines, more so on double yellow lines);
4. Shift one lane at a time (shifting two lanes will be considered swerving);
5. Never be on the road on coding days (except, of course, at window times). Marikina and Taguig do not follow the coding scheme so you are free to drive around these two cities on weekdays; Makati and Las Piñas have no window times so don’t even attempt to go there on your coding day;
6. Never use the phone to call nor text while on the wheels (remember, the CCTV camera can detect this even in the dark). It is advised that you pull over if you have to text or call.

Spread the word; inform your loved ones.