Navigating Metro Manila’s infamous traffic can feel like a daily puzzle. To manage the congestion, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) implements a traffic management strategy known as the number coding scheme. This system restricts vehicle movement on certain days based on the last digit of their license plates, especially during peak hours.
For seasoned drivers in Manila, understanding “Car Coding In Manila Today” is second nature. They meticulously plan routes and schedules to avoid coding restrictions. However, for newcomers or occasional drivers in the city, grasping the nuances of this scheme can be challenging.
As your trusted car expert from carcodescanner.store, I’m here to provide an updated and comprehensive guide to car coding in Manila. This article breaks down everything you need to know to confidently navigate Manila’s streets and ensure your journeys are smooth and code-compliant.
Decoding the Number Coding Scheme Schedule
The MMDA’s number coding scheme primarily targets private vehicles to reduce traffic volume. The restriction day is determined by the final number on your vehicle’s license plate. Here’s a simple breakdown:
| License Plate Ending in | Coding Day |
|---|---|
| 1 and 2 | Monday |
| 3 and 4 | Tuesday |
| 5 and 6 | Wednesday |
| 7 and 8 | Thursday |
| 9 and 0 | Friday |
Understanding this basic schedule is the first step to mastering car coding in Manila today. Remember to check your plate number and plan your trips accordingly.
City-Specific Coding Hours and “Window Hours”
While the general number coding scheme applies across Metro Manila from Monday to Friday, the MMDA introduces flexibility through “window hours” in most cities. These window hours allow vehicles covered by the coding scheme to be on the roads during specific mid-day periods. However, it’s crucial to note that Makati City operates a stricter scheme without window hours.
Refer to this table for the specific coding hours and window hour policies in different cities within Metro Manila:
| City | Coding Hours | Window Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Caloocan | 7 AM to 10 AM, 5 PM to 8 PM | 10:01 AM to 4:59 PM |
| Las Pinas | 7 AM to 10 AM, 5 PM to 8 PM | 10:01 AM to 4:59 PM |
| Makati | 7 AM to 7 PM | None |
| Mandaluyong | 7 AM to 10 AM, 5 PM to 8 PM | 10:01 AM to 4:59 PM |
| Malabon | 7 AM to 10 AM, 5 PM to 8 PM | 10:01 AM to 4:59 PM |
| Manila | 7 AM to 10 AM, 5 PM to 8 PM | 10:01 AM to 4:59 PM |
| Marikina | 7 AM to 10 AM, 5 PM to 8 PM(only on Marilaque/Marcos Highway) | 10:01 AM to 4:59 PM |
| Muntinlupa | 7 AM to 10 AM, 5 PM to 8 PM(only on Alabang-Zapote Road) | 10:01 AM to 4:59 PM |
| Navotas | 7 AM to 10 AM, 5 PM to 8 PM | 10:01 AM to 4:59 PM |
| Paranaque | 7 AM to 10 AM, 5 PM to 8 PM | 10:01 AM to 4:59 PM |
| Pasay | 7 AM to 10 AM, 5 PM to 8 PM | 10:01 AM to 4:59 PM |
| Pasig | 7 AM to 10 AM, 5 PM to 8 PM | 10:01 AM to 4:59 PM |
| Pateros | 7 AM to 10 AM, 5 PM to 8 PM | 10:01 AM to 4:59 PM |
| Quezon City | 7 AM to 10 AM, 5 PM to 8 PM | 10:01 AM to 4:59 PM |
| San Juan | 7 AM to 10 AM, 5 PM to 8 PM | 10:01 AM to 4:59 PM |
| Taguig | 7 AM to 10 AM, 5 PM to 8 PM | 10:01 AM to 4:59 PM |
| Valenzuela | 7 AM to 10 AM, 5 PM to 8 PM | 10:01 AM to 4:59 PM |
Always double-check the specific coding hours for the cities you plan to drive through, especially considering Makati’s unique full-day implementation.
Major Roads Under the Number Coding Scheme
The MMDA’s number coding scheme is implemented on the following major thoroughfares in Metro Manila. Familiarizing yourself with this list is crucial for avoiding violations:
- Araneta Avenue
- Aurora Boulevard
- Bonifacio Avenue
- C5
- C6
- Del Pan
- EDSA
- Magsaysay Boulevard
- Marcos Highway
- Ortigas Avenue
- Quezon Avenue
- Quirino Avenue
- Recto Avenue
- Rizal Avenue
- Roxas Boulevard
- Shaw Boulevard
- South Luzon Expressway (SLEX)
- Taft Avenue
Plan your routes carefully, especially during coding hours, if your journey involves these roads.
Exemptions to the Car Coding Rule
While the car coding scheme is widespread, certain roads and vehicle types are exempt. Knowing these exemptions can be beneficial for specific situations.
Roads Exempted from Number Coding:
- Samson Road, Caloocan
- Sales Road
- MIA Road
- Ninoy Aquino Avenue
- Domestic Road
- BGC (Bonifacio Global City)
- Skyway
- NAIA Expressway
- Parts of Airport Road
- Parts of Gil Puyat Avenue (formerly Buendia)
- Tollways and sections of toll roads passing through Metro Manila
Vehicle Exemptions:
- Electric and hybrid vehicles (promoting eco-friendly transport)
- Public utility vehicles (PUVs) including buses and jeepneys
- Transport Network Vehicle Services (TNVS) like ride-sharing services
- Motorcycles (a popular mode of transport in Manila)
- Essential service vehicles: Garbage trucks, fuel trucks, ambulances, fire trucks
- Marked government and media vehicles
- Vehicles carrying essential or perishable goods
It’s important to remember that Makati City, with its distinct coding scheme, has a more limited list of exemptions:
- Emergency vehicles: Ambulances, fire trucks, police cars, military vehicles on duty
- Diplomatic vehicles (with diplomatic plates)
- Marked government and media vehicles on official use
- Makati City-accredited tow trucks
- Vehicles of medical practitioners during emergencies
- Vehicles driven by or carrying Senior Citizen Blu Card holders
Traffic enforcers managing traffic in Manila, ensuring compliance with car coding and other regulations.
Common Questions About Car Coding in Manila Today
Let’s address some frequently asked questions to further clarify the car coding scheme:
1. What exactly are the window hours for number coding?
Outside of Makati City, the window hours in Metro Manila are from 10:01 AM to 4:59 PM and again from 8:01 PM to 6:59 AM the next day. During these times, vehicles that would otherwise be restricted by the coding scheme can travel on covered roads.
2. Is car coding enforced on holidays and weekends in Metro Manila?
No, the MMDA typically suspends the number coding scheme on holidays and weekends. Additionally, it may be lifted during specific events like severe weather, public transportation disruptions, or special occasions such as the President’s State of the Nation Address (SONA). Always stay updated on official MMDA announcements for any suspensions.
3. Are healthcare workers exempt from car coding in Manila?
Currently, only cars driven by or carrying doctors are officially exempted from the number coding scheme in Metro Manila. To avail of this exemption, doctors must present their valid Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) ID. Other healthcare professionals are, unfortunately, still subject to the coding rules unless driving with a doctor.
4. Are motorcycles included in the number coding scheme?
Motorcycles are generally exempt from the number coding scheme in Metro Manila, with the notable exception of Makati City where motorcycles are included in their specific coding regulations.
5. What’s the penalty for violating car coding regulations?
The standard fine for number coding violations usually ranges from ₱300 to ₱500, depending on the city where the violation occurs. It’s important to settle any fines within seven days to avoid potential increases and complications with driver’s license renewals.
Drive Smart and Stay Code-Compliant in Manila
Car coding in Manila today is a critical aspect of navigating the city’s roads. While it might seem complex initially, understanding the schedule, city-specific rules, exemptions, and major roads affected will empower you to drive confidently and avoid violations.
As your car experts at carcodescanner.store, we encourage you to stay informed and plan your journeys wisely. By mastering the car coding scheme, you can contribute to smoother traffic flow and enjoy a less stressful driving experience in Metro Manila. Stay safe and code-compliant on the road!
