Driving in Metro Manila can be notoriously challenging, often feeling like an endless sea of cars, especially during peak hours and holidays. To manage traffic congestion, the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) implements a number coding scheme, officially known as the Modified Unified Vehicular Volume Reduction Program (UVVRP). Understanding this scheme is crucial for anyone driving in Manila, whether you’re a resident or visiting on holiday.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of car coding in Manila, focusing on how it affects your driving plans, particularly during holidays. We’ll cover the schedule, affected areas, exemptions, and tips to navigate Manila’s roads effectively.
Understanding the Manila Number Coding Scheme
The number coding scheme is a traffic management tool designed to reduce the volume of vehicles on major roads in Metro Manila. By restricting vehicles based on the last digit of their license plate number, the MMDA aims to alleviate traffic congestion by approximately 20% during peak hours.
When is Number Coding in Effect?
The expanded number coding scheme in Metro Manila is enforced during rush hours, specifically:
- Morning: 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM
- Afternoon/Evening: 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
- Days: Monday to Friday
However, it’s important to note that number coding is suspended on holidays and weekends. This is particularly relevant for those planning to drive in Manila during holiday periods.
The scheme primarily targets private vehicles. The day your vehicle is restricted depends on the last digit of your license plate number, as shown in the table below:
| Last Digit of Plate Number | Day of Restriction |
|---|---|
| 1 & 2 | Monday |
| 3 & 4 | Tuesday |
| 5 & 6 | Wednesday |
| 7 & 8 | Thursday |
| 9 & 0 | Friday |
For example, if your license plate ends in 1 or 2, your car is coded on Mondays and you cannot drive in Metro Manila during the specified hours on Mondays. Violating the number coding rule will result in a traffic violation ticket and a fine.
Where Does Number Coding Apply in Manila and Metro Manila?
The MMDA’s number coding scheme covers all cities and municipalities within Metro Manila. This includes major thoroughfares like EDSA and C5, as well as many other significant roads.
Here’s a list of major roads under MMDA jurisdiction where number coding is enforced:
- 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
While the MMDA sets the general guidelines, individual cities within Metro Manila may have their own specific traffic rules and ordinances, particularly on secondary roads. It’s always a good idea to check local government websites for the most up-to-date information.
City-Specific Number Coding Rules within Metro Manila
Here’s a breakdown of number coding implementation in key cities within Metro Manila:
Manila City
Manila generally adheres to the MMDA’s 7 AM to 10 AM and 5 PM to 8 PM number coding hours on most roads. However, some roads in Manila may not have “window hours” (the time between coding periods where coded vehicles are allowed). Always be aware of specific road signs and local traffic enforcers’ instructions.
Makati City
Makati has its own unique number coding scheme, operating from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM with no window hours. This stricter scheme applies throughout the city, though there are exemptions for senior citizens with Blu Cards, medical emergencies, and official duties. Remember, Makati’s rules are different from the rest of Metro Manila.
Pasig City, Pasay City, Taguig City, Quezon City, Marikina City, Muntinlupa City, Mandaluyong City, and Caloocan City
These cities generally follow the MMDA’s expanded number coding scheme (7 AM to 10 AM and 5 PM to 8 PM). However, there can be specific road exemptions or variations.
- Pasay: Exemptions include Sales Road, MIA Road, Ninoy Aquino Avenue, Domestic Road, and parts of Airport Road and Gil Puyat.
- Taguig: Number coding is not implemented in Bonifacio Global City (BGC) but applies on national roads like East Service Road and Manuel L. Quezon Avenue.
- Marikina: No city-wide number coding, but a portion of Marcos Highway near Sta. Lucia East Mall is covered.
- Muntinlupa: Limited to Ayala-Alabang National Road and Alabang-Zapote Road corner Buencamino and North Gate. Commerce Avenue is exempted.
- Caloocan: Samson Road has no window hours, unlike other roads following the standard schedule.
It’s crucial to verify the specific rules for each city you plan to drive in, especially if your itinerary involves multiple locations within Metro Manila during your holiday.
Number Coding Exemptions: Who is Excempt?
Certain vehicles are exempted from the number coding scheme in Metro Manila. These generally include:
- Public Utility Vehicles (PUVs)
- Transport Network Vehicle Services (TNVS)
- Motorcycles
- Garbage trucks
- Ambulances
- Fire trucks
- Marked government vehicles
- Vehicles carrying essential and/or perishable goods
However, these exemptions may not always apply in Makati City. Always confirm local regulations.
Electric Vehicles and Hybrids
While there’s a growing push for electric vehicle adoption, not all electric and hybrid cars are automatically exempted. Mild hybrids typically are not exempt. The Department of Energy (DOE) maintains a list of recognized Electric Vehicles (EVs) that may qualify for exemptions. Check the DOE list to confirm if your EV is exempted from Manila’s car coding scheme.
Senior Citizens and Medical Workers
Currently, senior citizens are not exempted from the general Metro Manila number coding, though Makati City offers exemptions for resident senior citizens with Blu Cards. Similarly, healthcare and medical workers are not exempted in Metro Manila, except for medical emergencies in Makati City. The MMDA is considering studying potential exemptions for senior citizens in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions about Car Coding in Manila
Navigating the number coding system can raise many questions, especially for first-time visitors or those driving in Manila on holiday. Here are answers to some common queries:
1. Is there a new number coding scheme in Metro Manila?
The current expanded scheme has been in place since August 2022. As of now, there are no recent major changes. Rumors of stricter schemes banning cars twice a week have been denied by the MMDA.
2. What are the number coding window hours?
Window hours refer to the time between 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM when coded vehicles are allowed on roads under the expanded scheme. However, remember that Makati has no window hours, and some roads in other cities might also have no window hours.
3. Is there number coding on holidays and weekends in Metro Manila?
No, number coding is generally suspended on regular holidays and weekends in Metro Manila. The MMDA also often suspends coding during calamities or significant events like transport strikes or the President’s State of the Nation Address (SONA). Always check for official announcements from MMDA, especially around holidays, to confirm suspensions.
4. Can I apply for a number coding exemption?
No, the MMDA does not typically issue individual exemptions. Exemptions are generally limited to the vehicle types listed earlier (PUVs, ambulances, etc.). For specific local exemptions, you might need to inquire with the local government unit of your city.
5. What is the penalty for number coding violations?
The standard fine for violating the number coding scheme is ₱500.
6. Where can I pay the fine?
Fines can be paid through various channels, including:
- MMDA Traffic Management Division
- Landbank Link Biz Portal
- Bayad Center
- SM Bills Payment
- Maya
- GCash
- GrabPay
7. Is the truck ban still suspended?
Yes, the total truck ban on major Metro Manila roads remains suspended, except on EDSA (Magallanes to North Avenue) and in areas like Makati Business District, Ortigas, BGC, and Navotas City. Exemptions for trucks carrying essential goods still apply.
Tips for Driving in Manila and Surviving Number Coding
Number coding can be inconvenient, but with planning, you can navigate Manila’s traffic effectively, even during your holiday.
Plan Ahead and Leave Earlier
Traffic is often heaviest during coding hours. If you must drive, try to leave significantly earlier than your usual departure time, especially for afternoon or evening trips. Aim to be on the road before 7 AM or after 8 PM to avoid coding restrictions.
Utilize Ride-Hailing Apps
Transport Network Vehicle Services (TNVS) like Grab and Angkas are exempt from number coding. They offer a convenient way to get around without worrying about coding restrictions. However, be prepared for higher demand and potentially longer wait times during peak hours and holidays.
Consider Carpooling
Carpooling can be a cost-effective and social way to travel. Connect with colleagues, neighbors, or family members to share rides. Carpooling reduces the number of cars on the road and can help everyone navigate coding days more easily.
Explore Alternative Transportation
For shorter distances, consider walking, biking, or using e-bikes (where permitted and safely). Public transportation options like buses, jeepneys, and trains (MRT/LRT) are also available, although they can be crowded, especially during rush hour.
Final Thoughts: Staying Mobile in Manila
While number coding in Manila might seem like a hurdle, understanding the rules, exemptions, and alternative transportation options can significantly ease your travel. Especially when driving in Manila on holiday, being aware of coding suspensions and planning your journeys accordingly is key to a smoother experience. By staying informed and adaptable, you can navigate Manila’s roads and reach your destination with less stress.
Save on Fuel with Credit Card Rewards
Consider using a credit card that offers fuel rebates or cashback to offset driving costs. Several credit cards in the Philippines provide benefits on fuel purchases, helping you save money every time you fill up.
| Credit Card | Features and Benefits |
|---|---|
| UnionBank Platinum Mastercard | – 1% cashback on all purchases, including fuel – Airport lounge access |
| HSBC Red Mastercard | – Up to 6% fuel rebate at Caltex – Rewards points on various spending categories |
| Security Bank Complete Cashback Mastercard | – 4% cashback on gas purchases – Cashback on groceries, utilities, and dining |
| Petron BPI Card | – Fuel rebates at Petron stations – Free fuel vouchers for new cardholders |
Sources:
[1] MMDA Resolution No. 22-001 Series of 2022
[2] MMDA Facebook Page Official Announcements
[3] Department of Energy (DOE) List of Recognized EVs
[4] Manila Bulletin Article on MMDA Studying Senior Citizen Exemption
[5] Makati City Traffic Code
[6] Metro Manila Traffic Code – Single Ticketing System
[7] MMDA Advisory on Truck Ban Suspension
[8] Navotas City Ordinance on Truck Ban
(Note: Please verify the most current regulations and advisories from official MMDA sources and local city government units for the latest updates on number coding and traffic rules in Manila.)
