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In Metro Manila, traffic is a perennial problem that affects the daily lives of its residents. To address this issue, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) implemented the Number Coding Scheme in 1995. The system aims to reduce the number of vehicles on the road by restricting the use of private cars on certain days based on the last digit of their license plates. This blog will detail the MMDA Number Coding Scheme for 2023 and the latest updates and changes that you need to know.
Table of contents
What is the MMDA number coding scheme?
The law, which was formerly known as the modified Unified Vehicular Volume Reduction Program (UVVRP), forbids private motor vehicles from using metro roadways on a number of weekdays that correspond to the final digit of a vehicle’s license plate. Through this program, traffic volume is expected to be reduced by 20% during morning and afternoon/evening peak hours.
The Number Coding scheme was in effect as of August 15, 2022 with morning and evening coding hours of 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM, and 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM from Mondays to Fridays, excluding weekends and holidays.
According to UVVRP law, vehicles with license plates that end in 1 or 2 are not allowed to drive on Mondays. The same reasoning holds true on Fridays, when vehicles with license plates ending in 9 and 0 are not allowed.
Updates and Changes for 2023
The MMDA recently announced some updates and changes to the Number Coding Scheme for 2023. Makati City has been enforcing its own number coding scheme, which is effective for 12 straight hours from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. The MMDA implements a number coding scheme that runs only from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. and from 5pm to 8pm.
- Monday: 1 and 2
- Tuesday: 3 and 4
- Wednesday: 5 and 6
- Thursday: 7 and 8
- Friday: 9 and 0
Impact on Motorists
The MMDA Number Coding Scheme can have a significant impact on motorists in Metro Manila. While the scheme aims to reduce traffic congestion, it can also cause inconvenience and difficulty for those who rely on their cars for daily transportation.
One of the significant impacts of the scheme is the restriction of private cars on the road during peak hours, which can lead to longer travel times and more congested public transportation. This can also result in higher transportation costs for those who opt to use ride-sharing services or taxis.
Additionally, violators of the Number Coding Scheme may face fines and penalties. These penalties can increase for repeat offenders, and drivers may also have their license suspended. Motorists who would be flagged down for violating the number coding scheme anywhere in Metro Manila should pay a fine worth P500, according to the single ticketing system provision of the Metro Manila Traffic Code. As such, it is important for motorists to be aware of the coding schedule and plan their trips accordingly to avoid violation.
FAQs on Number Coding in the Philippines
1. Who is exempted from number coding?
According to the MMDA, the vehicles exempted from the number coding scheme include the following:
- Public utility vehicles or PUVs (including tricycles)
- Transport network vehicle services (TNVS)
- Motorcycles
- Garbage trucks
- Fuel trucks
- Ambulances
- Fire trucks
- Marked government vehicles
- Marked media vehicles
- Motor vehicles that carry essential and/or perishable goods
- All electrified vehicles (EVs)
2. Which roads in Metro Manila have number coding in effect?
All the following major roads in cities under the jurisdiction of the MMDA shall follow the number coding scheme:
- EDSA
- C5
- Recto Avenue
- Quirino Avenue
- Araneta Avenue
- C6
- Roxas Boulevard
- Taft Avenue
- South Luzon Expressway (SLEX)
- Shaw Boulevard
- Ortigas Avenue
- Bonifacio Avenue
- Rizal Avenue
- Quezon Avenue
- Marcos Highway
- Del Pan
- Magsaysay Boulevard
- Aurora Boulevard
3. Are healthcare and medical workers part of the coding exemption in the Philippines?
No. Doctors and healthcare personnel are still required to travel in coded cars during the number coding window hours in Metro Manila since they are not excluded from the rule.
This doesn’t include healthcare and medical workers under medical emergencies in Makati City.
4. Where can I pay the fine for my number coding violation?
If you’re wondering how you’re supposed to settle the fine for your number coding scheme violation, the MMDA has a list of payment channels to choose from, including the following:
- MMDA Traffic Management Division
- Landbank Link Biz Portal
- Bayad Center
- SM Bills Payment
- PayMaya
- GCash
- GrabPay
5. Can I apply for a number coding exemption?
No. The MMDA doesn’t issue a number coding exemption. Only the vehicles in the exempted list will be exempted from number coding in Metro Manila. You may check with your local government unit for number coding exemptions and requirements in your area.
Tips to Keep in Mind
If you are planning to drive around Metro Manila in 2023, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the MMDA Number Coding Scheme to avoid getting fined or apprehended:
Know the coding days and hours
The MMDA Number Coding Scheme restricts certain vehicles from using major roads in Metro Manila during specific days and hours based on the last digit of their license plate number. The coding hours are from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM, and the coding days
Be aware of the exemptions
There are certain exemptions to the MMDA Number Coding Scheme, such as public utility vehicles, emergency vehicles, government vehicles, and diplomatic vehicles. Private vehicles used for medical emergencies or official government business may also be exempted, but only with proper documentation.
Plan your route ahead of time
If your vehicle is covered by the MMDA Number Coding Scheme, make sure to plan your route ahead of time to avoid using restricted roads during coding hours. You can use alternative routes or public transportation to get to your destination.
Don’t violate the rules
Violating the MMDA Number Coding Scheme can result in a fine of Php 500, according to the single ticketing system provision of the Metro Manila Traffic Code
Keep up-to-date with MMDA announcements
The MMDA may issue special announcements or changes to the coding scheme, so it’s important to stay informed to avoid any confusion or penalties. – WhatALife!/Jayve
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