The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has begun strictly enforcing penalties against illegal dumping through its No Contact Apprehension Policy (NCAP), using surveillance cameras to identify and fine violators caught throwing garbage into waterways.
MMDA General Manager Nicolas Torre III said the agency is now capturing on camera individuals who dump waste into esteros, allowing authorities to issue violations without direct apprehension.
“Yung mga nahuli namin, sir, na nagtatapon ng basura sa mga estero, huli ng ating camera,” Torre said, adding that violators are documented and later visited at their residences to be served notices.
The agency said one of its primary measures includes installing garbage traps in waterways to collect trash flowing from upstream areas. These traps, often seen filled with waste, highlight the volume of garbage accumulating in rivers and esteros across Metro Manila.
In parallel, the MMDA has launched a disciplinary program “Yes to Ayos” campaign in coordination with local government units to promote proper waste disposal and reduce pollution in waterways.
Torre cited local governments such as Pateros and Malabon as examples of areas showing improvement in reducing garbage volume.
“Nandun tayo sa Pateros dahil isa sila sa mga model na talagang yung local government ay talagang nagtatrabaho para mabawasan yung basura sa estero,” the MMDA chief said.
“Katatapos namin sa Malabon, na isa rin problematic area natin noon, na ngayon ay talagang nangunguna rin, sir, sa pag-reduce ng garbage volume sa mga estero natin,” he added.
Authorities emphasized that discipline among residents remains crucial in addressing the problem.
Under existing regulations, violators may choose to pay fines ranging from 500 to 3,000 pesos for initial offenses, with penalties reaching up to 5,000 pesos for repeated violations.
Torre said at least one violator has already paid a fine after being caught on camera throwing a cigarette while waiting for a passenger.
The individual, a transport network vehicle service rider living outside Metro Manila, was traced through his vehicle’s license plate and summoned to his barangay, where he was issued a notice of violation.
The MMDA is expected to release footage of apprehended violators in the coming days through its official platforms as part of its intensified enforcement efforts.
