Driving in Metro Manila can often feel like an endurance test, a sentiment echoed by anyone who has experienced its notorious traffic congestion. Planning your journeys is not just advisable—it’s essential. Before you even turn the ignition, knowing if your vehicle is affected by the number coding scheme can save you time, money, and a considerable amount of stress.
Are you puzzled by the latest number coding regulations? Struggling to remember the schedule and the restricted hours? You’re not alone. Consider this your quick and comprehensive guide to understanding number coding in Metro Manila, helping you stay informed and on the right side of traffic rules.
Understanding Metro Manila’s Number Coding Scheme
The Number Coding Scheme, officially known as the Modified Unified Vehicular Volume Reduction Program (UVVRP), is a key traffic management strategy implemented to alleviate traffic congestion in Metro Manila. Designed by the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA), this scheme aims to reduce the volume of cars on the roads, particularly during peak hours, contributing to smoother traffic flow. The expected reduction in traffic volume is around 20% during the busiest times of the day.
MMDA Number Coding Hours: When Does it Apply?
So, what are the number coding hours? In Metro Manila, the expanded number coding scheme operates during rush hours, specifically from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. in the morning and again from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the afternoon to evening, Monday through Friday.
It’s important to note that number coding is suspended on holidays and weekends. This provides some respite and flexibility in travel planning during these times.
The MMDA’s scheme primarily targets private vehicles. The restriction is based on the last digit of your vehicle’s license plate number, dictating which day of the week your vehicle is prohibited from being on Metro Manila roads during coding hours.
To help you plan effectively, here’s a straightforward guide:
For example, if your license plate ends with the number 1 or 2, your car is coded on Mondays. Driving on restricted roads during coding hours will result in apprehension by traffic enforcers, a traffic violation ticket, and the need to pay a penalty fee for UVVRP violation. Being informed and compliant is key to hassle-free driving in Metro Manila.
Where is Number Coding Implemented in Metro Manila?
Are you wondering if number coding applies on major thoroughfares like EDSA and SLEX, or within bustling cities such as Manila and Pasay?
The MMDA clarifies that number coding is enforced across all cities and municipalities within Metro Manila, with one notable exception: Makati City has its own traffic regulations and is excluded from the MMDA’s program. Makati operates its unique number coding scheme from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
The MMDA’s number coding scheme applies to these major roads within Metro Manila cities:
- 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 scheme covers major roads, individual cities may have their own specific traffic rules and number coding ordinances for secondary roads within their jurisdiction. It’s always wise to check with the local government of your destination city to understand any specific number coding rules and related traffic regulations that might apply.
City-Specific Number Coding Rules
Let’s delve into the specifics of number coding implementation in key cities within Metro Manila:
📍 Manila
Manila, one of the most densely populated cities, experiences heavy traffic. Most roads in Manila adhere to the MMDA number coding hours of 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. However, some roads in Manila do not have window hours, meaning the restriction is continuous during the coding period. It’s crucial to be aware of specific road regulations within Manila.
📍 Makati
Makati operates a stricter number coding policy. Here, number coding is in effect from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. There are no window hours in Makati if your vehicle is subject to coding. Violators in Makati face a ₱300 fine.
Exemptions in Makati are limited to vehicles carrying drivers or passengers who are senior citizen Blu Card holders, those involved in medical emergencies, and vehicles on official duty.
📍 Pasig
Pasig City follows the MMDA’s standard number coding scheme. This means number coding is implemented from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. in Pasig.
📍 Pasay
Pasay City also implements number coding from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. However, certain major roads in Pasay are exempted from the scheme. These include Sales Road, MIA Road, Ninoy Aquino Avenue, Domestic Road, and parts of Airport Road and Gil Puyat Avenue.
📍 Taguig
In Taguig, number coding is not implemented in Bonifacio Global City (BGC). However, it is enforced in other areas, particularly on national roads like the East Service Road and Manuel L. Quezon Avenue, following the standard MMDA hours.
📍 Quezon City
Quezon City aligns with the MMDA number coding schedule: 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. This allows motorists with coded vehicles to travel within Quezon City during the window hours from 10:01 a.m. to 4:59 p.m.
📍 Marikina
Marikina generally does not implement number coding. However, a segment of Marcos Highway near Sta. Lucia East Mall and Ayala Malls Feliz is covered by the number coding scheme, following the 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. schedule. Avoid this route during these hours if your vehicle is coded.
📍 Muntinlupa
Muntinlupa’s number coding is limited to Ayala-Alabang National Road and Alabang-Zapote Road corner Buencamino and North Gate, from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Number coding is not implemented along Commerce Avenue in Muntinlupa.
📍 Mandaluyong
Mandaluyong City adheres to the MMDA’s number coding scheme. To avoid penalties, ensure you travel during the window hours of 10:01 a.m. to 4:49 p.m. if your vehicle is coded.
📍 Caloocan
Caloocan City also follows the number coding system from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. with one exception: Samson Road has no window hours, meaning coding is continuously enforced during these periods on Samson Road.
🚗 Secure Your Drive: Car Insurance in the Philippines
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| Car Insurance Company | Maximum Total Sum Insured | CTPL Coverage | Own Damage & Theft Coverage | Acts of Nature Coverage | Death / Disablement Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FPG Insurance | ₱4 million | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | |
| Malayan Insurance | ₱7.5 million | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | |
| The Mercantile Insurance Corporation | ₱5 million | ✔️ | ✔️ | ||
| OONA Insurance (formerly MAPFRE) | ₱5 million | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| PGA Insurance | ₱3 million | ✔️ | |||
| SGI Philippines | ₱5 million | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | |
| Standard Insurance | ₱5 million | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Stronghold Insurance | ₱3 million | ✔️ |
Frequently Asked Questions About Number Coding in Metro Manila
Navigating the number coding scheme can raise several questions. Here are answers to some common queries:
1. Is there a new number coding scheme currently in Metro Manila?
The expanded number coding scheme, which was implemented starting August 15, 2022, remains in effect. As of now, there have been no further changes to this scheme by the MMDA.
Dismissing social media rumors, the MMDA has confirmed that there are no plans to ban cars on major Metro Manila roads twice a week. The coding hours remain from 7 to 10 a.m. and 5 to 8 p.m. on weekdays.
2. What are the number coding window hours in 2025?
Window hours refer to the period when coded vehicles are permitted on public roads, which is between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m., lasting for seven hours daily. Unless officially announced otherwise, these window hours are expected to remain consistent in 2025.
3. Is number coding in Metro Manila enforced on holidays and weekends?
Image: A road sign indicating the suspension of number coding during holidays and weekends in Metro Manila.
Typically, number coding is suspended during regular holidays and weekends in Metro Manila and adjacent cities.
The MMDA also often suspends number coding during significant events like severe weather conditions (typhoons, volcanic eruptions) or public transport crises, such as major transport strikes or LRT/MRT line shutdowns.
Number coding may also be lifted for special events like the President’s State of the Nation Address (SONA). For example, on July 24, 2023, the expanded number coding was suspended for President Marcos Jr.’s SONA.
4. Which vehicles are exempt from the number coding scheme?
According to the MMDA, the following types of vehicles are exempted from the number coding scheme in Metro Manila:
- 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
It’s important to remember that Makati City does not recognize these exemptions, as per MMDA guidelines.
For a more detailed list, you can refer to resources on vehicle coding exemptions in the Philippines.
5. Are electric and hybrid cars exempt from number coding?
Not all hybrid and electric vehicles are exempted. Mild hybrids generally do not qualify for exemption under MMDA rules and are also not permitted to park in designated EV parking spots.
For a definitive list of recognized Electric Vehicles (EVs) that qualify for coding exemptions, refer to the Department of Energy (DOE)’s official list.
6. Are senior citizens exempted from number coding in Metro Manila?
Under the expanded number coding scheme in Metro Manila, there are no general exemptions for senior citizens. However, Makati City provides exemptions for senior citizens who are residents, possess a senior citizen card, or are registered Makati voters.
The MMDA is reportedly considering the feasibility of implementing senior citizen exemptions in the future, but as of now, no such general exemption is in place.
7. Are healthcare and medical workers exempt from number coding?
No, healthcare and medical workers are not currently exempted from number coding in Metro Manila under the general scheme. This means they are subject to coding restrictions during window hours unless traveling under emergency conditions within Makati City, which recognizes medical emergencies as an exemption.
8. Can I apply for a number coding exemption?
No, the MMDA does not offer individual number coding exemptions. Exemptions are strictly limited to the vehicle types listed under official guidelines. For specific exemptions or requirements within your locality, it’s best to consult your local government unit.
9. What is Makati’s unique traffic reduction program?
Makati City operates its own distinct coding scheme, different from the rest of Metro Manila. In Makati, coded vehicles are restricted from driving within the city from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Notably, Makati has no window hours.
However, Makati City’s government states that its coding scheme is automatically lifted on holidays.
Exemptions in Makati are specifically for vehicles carrying Senior Citizen Blu Card holders as drivers or passengers, as well as vehicles on official functions and those responding to medical emergencies, as detailed in the Makati Traffic Code.
10. What is the penalty for violating number coding rules?
Violating the number coding scheme will result in a ₱500 fine, according to the Metro Manila Traffic Code’s single ticketing system.
11. Where can I pay my number coding violation fine?
The MMDA provides multiple payment channels for settling fines related to number coding violations, including:
- MMDA Traffic Management Division
- Landbank Link Biz Portal
- Bayad Center
- SM Bills Payment
- Maya
- GCash
- GrabPay
12. Is the truck ban still suspended on major Metro Manila roads?
Yes, the total truck ban on Metro Manila roads remains suspended indefinitely, except on EDSA from Magallanes, Makati to North Avenue, Quezon City, and in the following areas:
- Makati Business District
- Ortigas Business District, Pasig City
- Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City
- Navotas City
Exemptions for the truck ban include garbage trucks, fuel trucks, and trucks transporting essential or perishable goods.
Violations of the total truck ban policy incur a ₱2,000 fine (₱5,000 in Navotas). Repeat offenders (three violations) may face a one-year driver’s license suspension recommended by the MMDA to the Land Transportation Office (LTO).
Tips for Navigating Number Coding in Metro Manila
The number coding system can be inconvenient for vehicle owners, especially those who travel extensively across Metro Manila. Here are some practical tips to help you manage on coding days:
🚗 Start Your Journey Earlier
Since number coding is primarily enforced during morning and evening rush hours, you can still utilize your vehicle outside these times. If you have afternoon engagements, aim to leave significantly earlier to avoid being caught during restricted hours. Always factor in potential traffic delays to ensure timely arrival. For evening travel, wait until just after 8 p.m. to hit the road.
🚗 Utilize Ride-Hailing Apps
Transport Network Vehicle Services (TNVS) are exempt from number coding, making ride-hailing apps a convenient alternative. Enjoy the comfort of a private ride without the stress of driving yourself. However, be prepared for higher demand and potentially longer wait times, particularly during peak hours and in central business districts. Plan ahead and book your ride with ample time to spare.
🚗 Consider Carpooling
Carpooling can be a more economical option compared to TNVS, especially if you find a carpool arrangement with reasonable rates. Explore Facebook groups or community boards to find carpools in your area. Alternatively, organize a carpool with family, neighbors, friends, or colleagues who live or work nearby. Sharing rides can reduce costs and traffic, and you can take turns using your vehicles based on the coding schedule.
🚗 Explore Alternative Transportation
Metro Manila offers various transportation modes. Consider walking or biking for shorter distances – it’s healthy and eco-friendly! E-bikes and e-scooters are also options, but remember they are restricted from major thoroughfares, require registration, and necessitate safety gear like helmets. Public transportation, such as buses and trains (MRT/LRT), can also be viable alternatives depending on your route and destination.
Final Thoughts on Car Coding Today in Metro Manila
Before driving in Metro Manila, always double-check the number coding schedule and rules. While it may seem like a partial solution to traffic issues, understanding and adhering to the number coding scheme is crucial to avoid fines and navigate the city’s roads smoothly. Staying informed is your best strategy for hassle-free commuting in Metro Manila.
💳 Maximize Savings: Fuel Rebates and Credit Card Rewards
Reduce your car expenses, including fuel, by using credit cards that offer rebates and rewards. Explore credit card options that provide cashback on fuel purchases and other car-related spending to make every drive more economical.
| Credit Card | Features and Benefits |
|---|---|
| UnionBank Platinum Mastercard **** | – 1% cashback on all purchases, including fuel purchases – Free lounge access at NAIA Terminals 1 and 3 |
| HSBC Red Mastercard | – 6% rebate on your first Caltex fuel purchase; 3% fuel rebate all year round – Up to 4x rewards points on shopping, dining, online, and overseas spend |
| Security Bank Complete Cashback Mastercard | – 4% cashback on gas purchases – 5% grocery rebate – 3% utility rebate – 2% dining rebate – 1% shopping rebate |
| Petron BPI Card | – 3% fuel rebate at BPI-accredited stations (up to ₱15,000 fuel rebate per year) – Free fuel voucher worth ₱200 for new cardholders |
Sources:
- Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA)
