Driving on the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) and the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) is a serious business - it's your supreme responsibility to be cognizant of the rules.
In these territories, the NLEX/SCTEX traffic enforcers rule. We’ve all seen them on these expressways, but what exactly is their role and do they have any powers to stop and fine drivers?
Here’s what you need to know right here.
Are NLEX/SCTEX traffic enforcers part of the Philippine National Police?
With big, powerful pick-ups sporting high-visibility decals and flashing lights, it’s easy to see why NLEX/SCTEX traffic enforcers could be confused with police officers. However, they are employed by the Manila North Tollways Corporation and not affiliated with the PNP in any way.
What is their job?
The primary job of NLEX/SCTEX traffic enforcers is to patrol these expressways and help keep traffic flowing smoothly.
Traffic enforcers help the process of managing incidents on these expressways by:
- coordinating the resources of the emergency services
- managing traffic to reduce incident related congestion
- clearing debris from the carriageways
- re-opening routes as soon as it is safe to do so
- supporting the police
What other responsibilities do they have?
NLEX/SCTEX traffic enforcers will also keep motorists informed about incidents by passing on information through electronic signs on the expressway network. They will also assist if you breakdown or are involved in a collision or other incident.
They will also remove abandoned vehicles and organize mobile and temporary road closures.
Can they give you a ticket for speeding?
Yes. Currently, NLEX/SCTEX traffic enforcers can apprehend you for speeding, or issue a ticket. In fact, they can give you tickets for any driving offense. Existing traffic laws, particularly R.A. 4136 and 8794, are strictly implemented by the Tollways Management Corporation, who is deputized by the Land Transportation Office (LTO). LTO traffic officers can oftentimes be seen together with the NLEX/SCTEX traffic enforcers at the toll exits. PNP officers, meanwhile, can be seen along gasoline stations and food stops.
Additionally, the Manila North Tollways Corporation has introduced body and dashboard cameras to better document interactions between traffic enforcers and motorists. When a tollway enforcer approaches you, be on alert as he wears a built-in camera like it is part of his or her uniform. The enforcer’s vehicle also sports a dashboard camera. The cameras are expected to enhance the accuracy of incident reports and provide evidence for incidents requiring investigation. The use of body cameras will also further ensure that motorists are properly handled by NLEX-SCTEX traffic enforcers during apprehensions.
Can they immediately stop you while you're overspeeding on the expressway?
They will not. Instead, NLEX/SCTEX traffic enforcers will wait for you when you queue up at any of the toll exits. A traffic enforcer will wave at you and guide you to one side or at any less crowded lane. He will ask to see your driver's license while telling you've been caught by their radar gun/camera while overspeeding. The maximum allowable speed limit is only at 100 kph.
When you try to deny your offense, they will ask you to come with them to their office to view the radar results and when applicable, the CCTV footage.
Do they have the power to search your vehicle?
NLEX/SCTEX traffic enforcers have no powers to search your vehicle. Traffic enforcers can pass details to the police if they witness a crime or any other criminal offenses.
During traffic incidents, can they stop you on an expressway?
Yes. NLEX/SCTEX traffic enforcers have the power to stop and direct traffic. Ignoring a traffic enforcer who orders you to stop will make them ask for PNP assistance and could result in your apprehension or fines.
How do you know if a traffic enforcer is trying to stop you?
To stop you, the NLEX/SCTEX traffic enforcers must be in uniform. The enforcers will always be in a marked car and will typically attract your attention with flashing lights or by simply waving and pointing at you. You must pull over as soon as it’s safe to do so and then switch off your engine.
Can the traffic enforcer tow your car from the expressway?
If a vehicle breaks down or is damaged in an accident, NLEX/SCTEX traffic enforcers can attend the scene and have the vehicle towed. They must attempt to check if this has already been arranged by the owner. If the owner can’t be contacted or the vehicle has been left in a dangerous position, the traffic enforcers can have the vehicle towed. The vehicle will not be released until the owner settles the cost of towing
How can you tell if it is a genuine NLEX/SCTEX traffic enforcer telling you to stop?
It must be a marked vehicle and the traffic enforcers must be in uniform.
(Image from Manila North Tollways Corporation)
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