The MMDA Single Ticketing System (STS) is a centralized method of enforcing traffic laws in all major, secondary, and other roads within Metro Manila, aiming to standardize fines and penalties while enhancing overall traffic management in the region. Through the Metro Manila Traffic Code of 2023, it streamlines enforcement efforts and fosters collaboration among government agencies for more efficient operations.
The STS is implemented by authorized personnel from the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), Land Transportation Office (LTO), and local government units (LGUs), who issue citations using handheld devices and Unified Ordinance Violation Receipts (UOVR). Under the STS, drivers enjoy certain rights, including the right to contest violations within a specific period and online payment options for fines. That said, understanding what the STS is about empowers drivers and car owners to understand how it works, as well as navigate traffic regulations, avoid violations, handle citations properly, and ensure compliance with traffic laws, ultimately contributing to safer roads and smoother traffic flow in Metro Manila.
Common Questions about the MMDA STS
To help you understand more about what the STS is about, avoid violations, handle citations properly, and ensure compliance with traffic laws, here are some of the most commonly asked questions related to the STS.
1. How are citations issued under the STS?
Citations are issued using handheld devices by authorized personnel, and they utilize Unified Ordinance Violation Receipts (UOVR) as standardized citation tickets.
2. How much is the fine for traffic violations under the single ticketing system?
Here are the most common traffic violations and their corresponding fines based on the Metro Manila Traffic Code of 2023:
- Disregarding traffic signs – P1,000
- Obstruction – P1,000
- Overloading – P1,000
- Defective motor vehicle accessories – P1,000
- Illegal parking (attended) – P1,000
- Illegal parking (unattended) – P2,000
- Number-coding scheme violation – P500
- Truck ban – P3,000
- Light truck ban – P2,000
- Reckless driving – P1,000 (first offense), P1,000 with driver seminar (second offense), P2,000 with seminar (third and subsequent offenses)
- Tricycle ban – P500
- Dress code for motorcycles – P500 (first offense), P750 (second offense), P1,000 (third and subsequent offenses)
- Unauthorized modifications – P2,000
- Arrogance/discourteous conduct – P500 and driver’s seminar course
- Illegal counterflow – P2,000 (first offense), P5,000 (in case of illegal counterflow caused physical injuries or damage to properties without prejudice to civil and criminal liability of the driver, registered owner or operator of the motor vehicle)
- Failure to use seatbelt – P1,000 (first offense), P2,000 (second offense), P5,000 with one week suspension of driver’s license (third and subsequent offenses)
- Failure to use child restraint system (CRS) – P1,000 (first offense), P2,000 (second offense), P5,000 with one year suspension of driver’s license (third and subsequent offenses)
- Use of substandard CRS – P1,000 (first offense), P3,000 (second offense), P5,000 with one year suspension of driver’s license (third and subsequent offenses)
- No motorcycle helmet – P1,500 (first offense), P3,000 (second offense), P5,000 (third offense), P10,000 with confiscation of the driver’s license (fourth and subsequent offenses)
- Use of helmet with no ICC markings – P3,000 (first offense), P5,000 (second and subsequent offenses)
- Violation of Children’s Safety on Motorcycles Act – P3,000 (first offense), P5,000 (second offense), P10,000 with one-month suspension of driver’s license (third offense), P10,000 and automatic revocation of driver’s license (fourth and subsequent offenses)
- Anti-Distracted Driving Act or use of mobile communication devices and electronic entertainment gadgets while driving – P5,000 (first offense), P10,000 (second offense), P15,000 with suspension of driver’s license for three months (third offense), P20,000 with revocation of license (fourth and subsequent offenses)
3. Can I request leniency or negotiate fines under the STS?
The fines under the STS are generally non-negotiable, but you have the right to contest the violation through the adjudication process if you believe it was issued unfairly.
4. How can fines be paid?
Fines can be paid online through official platforms provided by the MMDA, LTO, or LGUs. There is also an option to pay in person at designated offices or directly at the MMDA office, LTO, or the LGU where the ticket was issued.
5. What happens if fines are not paid within the specified period?
Failure to pay fines within the specified 10-day period or within the allowable contest period may result in penalties such as demerit points, license suspension, or vehicle registration restrictions. Their driver’s license and/or vehicle registration may also be placed on the alarm list and may not be allowed to renew their license or register a vehicle unit.
6. Are there any exceptions to fines under the STS?
No. Fines are standardized for most violations under the STS, but certain violations or circumstances may warrant higher penalties based on the severity of the offense.
7. How do I know if my citation is valid?
Your citation is valid if it is issued by authorized personnel and contains accurate information about the violation, fine amount, and payment instructions.
8. Can I still drive if I receive a citation under the STS?
Yes, you can still drive unless your violation warrants immediate suspension or revocation of your driver’s license, as determined by the adjudication process.
9. Can violations be contested?
Yes, drivers have the option to contest violations within a specified period through designated adjudication boards like at the MMDA Traffic Adjudication Board, LTO, or LGU where the ticket was issued. The complaint must be made within 10 working days after the ticket was issued.
10. What happens after contesting a violation successfully?
If you contest your violation successfully, then no demerit points will be added to your record, and no alarms will be placed on your license or vehicle.
11. Can my driver’s license be confiscated?
Generally, traffic enforcers do not confiscate driver’s licenses for violations in Metro Manila. However, there are specific instances when confiscation is allowed, such as:
- Unsettled traffic violation.
- Accumulation of ten (10) demerit points leading to license suspension until compliance with RA 10930.
- Accumulation of 40 demerit points resulting in license cancellation.
- Involvement in a road crash, driving under the influence, driving an unregistered vehicle, or other similar violations.
12. What happens if I refuse to surrender my documents during apprehension?
Refusal to surrender documents may lead to additional violations such as driving without a valid license or vehicle registration.
13. Where can I claim confiscated documents?
Confiscated documents can be claimed at designated redemption offices.
14. How will I know about the hearing date and venue?
The MMDA, LTO, or LGU will notify you of the hearing details through a notice or summons sent to your provided address, email, or mobile number.
15. What if I miss the hearing?
Failure to appear without valid reason may result in the dismissal of your protest or complaint.
Video: Understanding the MMDA Single Ticketing System
For more information about the Single Ticketing System, you may check out this video posted by Valenzuela City.
Summary
Learning more about STS is crucial for motorists to understand their rights and responsibilities and navigate traffic regulations effectively in Metro Manila. If you encounter issues or discrepancies with your MMDA-issued traffic citation, you may reach out to the MMDA, LTO, or relevant LGU for assistance and clarification on how to proceed or settle the concern.