The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) is eyeing the first or second week of April this year as a dry run period for the implementation of the single-ticketing system for all traffic violations in the National Capital Region.
The single-ticketing system, it was recalled, was given a go by all Metro Manila mayors after almost two decades of discussions and negotiations in a bid to ease the burden of motorists.
(photo: MMDA)
The Metro Manila Traffic Code of 2023 will provide for a system of interconnectivity among government instrumentalities involved in the transport and traffic management in the metropolis with harmonized fines and penalties.
Around 20 common traffic violations are covered by the single-ticketing system.
MMDA Acting Chairman Atty. Don Artes said the dry run would benefit the traffic enforcers, both from the agency and the 17 local government units (LGUs) as they would be familiarized with the system.
It will also serve as an opportunity to address technical glitches that may arise, especially that the system would be online and would be connected to the information and technology system of the Land Transportation Office.
"The single ticketing system across Metro Manila is nearing full implementation. There is a need to conduct a dry run to increase public awareness," Artes said during the Metro Manila Council (MMC) meeting held today at the MMDA’s New Head Office in Julia Vargas, Pasig City.
Under the single ticketing system, it will be easier for traffic violators in the National Capital Region to settle their penalties through Bayad Centers all over the country or through mobile apps.
Artes disclosed that seven local government units in Metro Manila have signified interest to be the areas of the dry-run: San Juan, Muntinlupa, Quezon City, Valenzuela, Parañaque, Manila and Caloocan.
Artes added that the Land Transportation Office drafted a memorandum of agreement regarding interconnectivity with LGUs and data privacy agreement, adding that the agency has committed to submit the Memorandum of Agreement on Friday, March 3.
For his part, MMC President and San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora stressed the importance of a single ticketing system.
“The implementation of the single ticketing system will highly benefit our motorists because they have the option to pay thru online channels for their violations,” Zamora said.
Present during the meeting are mayors Vico Sotto of Pasig, Ruffy Biazon of Muntinlupa, Weslie Gatchalian of Valenzuela, Emi Calixto-Rubiano of Pasay, Jeannie Sandoval of Malabon, and Miguel "Ike" Ponce III of Pateros.