MMDA finalizing new ticketing system for traffic violations

The Metropolitan Manila Department Authority is eyeing the implementation next month of a new and more efficient ticketing system, which would do away with confiscating of an erring motorist’s driver’s license and car plates.

MMDA Traffic Operations Execution Director Angelito Vergel de Dios said they are now finalizing the proposed use of road abuser’s payment order (RAPO) in the apprehension of traffic violators. It would replace the traffic violation receipt (TVR) currently being issued by enforcers.

As part of the modernization program, Vergel de Dios said, the new system would make apprehensions more "convenient" to violators since then they need not surrender their driver’s licenses or car plates.

Under the new system, a violator would be given a RAPO with a coordination among the concerned agencies, specifically the Land Transportation Office and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board.

"If a violator fails to fix his RAPOs and they pile up in our records, then he will have a hard time renewing his license," he noted.

The new ticketing system, however, is being challenged by some local governments which are considering producing and issuing their own TVRs.

The local government of Makati City has proposed during a recent traffic summit the creation of its own TVR, which will be used by its independent enforcers.

The proposal is also being considered by authorities in the city of Manila, according to a report.

"If that’s the case, then it would be chaotic and confusing," noted Vergel de Dios.