Navigating Metro Manila’s bustling streets can be challenging, especially during rush hour. To combat traffic congestion, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) implements a number coding scheme, a system familiar to seasoned drivers but often confusing for newcomers. As your trusted auto repair expert from carcodescanner.store, we’re here to provide you with an updated, comprehensive guide to the Manila Car Coding Schedule, ensuring you can travel around the city with confidence and avoid any unexpected penalties.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the number coding system in Manila, from the schedule and hours of operation to exemptions and frequently asked questions. Whether you’re a daily commuter or a visitor exploring the city, understanding these regulations is crucial for smooth and hassle-free journeys.
Understanding the Number Coding Scheme Schedule in Manila
The MMDA’s number coding scheme is primarily designed for private vehicles and is based on the last digit of your vehicle’s license plate number. This digit determines the specific day of the week your vehicle is restricted from traversing major Metro Manila roads. Knowing your coding day is the first step in planning your weekly commute and avoiding traffic violations.
| 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 |
This table clearly outlines which days of the week certain vehicles are prohibited based on their license plate number. For instance, if your license plate ends in 1 or 2, your coding day is Monday, and your vehicle will be restricted on covered roads during coding hours that day.
Manila Number Coding Hours and “Window Hours” Across Cities
While the number coding scheme is generally applied across Metro Manila from Monday to Friday, the MMDA offers some flexibility through “window hours.” These window hours allow vehicles affected by the coding scheme to be on the road during specific periods. However, it’s critical to note that Makati City operates under its own distinct traffic coding scheme without window hours.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the coding hours and window hours for each city 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 |
As you can see, most cities in Metro Manila, including Manila itself, implement coding hours during the morning and afternoon rush hours, with window hours in between. However, it’s crucial to remember Makati City’s stricter scheme which runs from 7 AM to 7 PM without any window hours. Always double-check the specific rules for the city you are driving in to avoid violations.
Major Roads Covered by the Number Coding Scheme
The MMDA’s number coding scheme applies to a comprehensive list of major thoroughfares within Metro Manila. Familiarizing yourself with these roads is essential for effective route planning and compliance. Here are the primary roads where the number coding scheme is enforced:
- Araneta Avenue
- Aurora Boulevard
- Bonifacio Avenue
- C5 Road
- C6 Road
- Del Pan Street
- EDSA (Epifanio de los Santos Avenue)
- Magsaysay Boulevard
- Marcos Highway
- Ortigas Avenue
- Quezon Avenue
- Quirino Avenue
- Recto Avenue
- Rizal Avenue
- Roxas Boulevard
- Shaw Boulevard
- South Luzon Expressway (SLEX)
- Taft Avenue
It’s important to note that this list covers major arteries, but the coding scheme might be implemented on other roads as well, especially within city centers during peak hours. Always be attentive to traffic signs and announcements from traffic enforcers.
Exemptions from the Manila Car Coding Scheme
While the number coding scheme is broadly implemented, there are several exemptions for specific types of vehicles and certain roads. Understanding these exemptions can be beneficial, especially if you fall under any of these categories.
Road Exemptions:
Certain roads are specifically exempted from the number coding scheme to ensure smooth traffic flow in critical areas or facilitate access to important locations. These road exemptions include:
- Samson Road, Caloocan
- Sales Road
- MIA Road (MIA Avenue)
- Ninoy Aquino Avenue
- Domestic Road
- Bonifacio Global City (BGC) roads
- Skyway
- NAIA Expressway
- Parts of Airport Road
- Parts of Gil Puyat Avenue (formerly Buendia)
- Other tollways and sections of toll roads passing through Metro Manila.
These exemptions are often in place to ensure uninterrupted access to airports, business districts, and major transportation hubs.
Vehicle Exemptions:
Certain types of vehicles are also exempted from the number coding scheme due to their essential functions or environmentally friendly nature. These vehicle exemptions are:
- Electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid vehicles
- Public utility vehicles (PUVs), including buses, jeepneys, and taxis (but excluding tricycles)
- Transport Network Vehicle Services (TNVS) – vehicles operating under ride-hailing platforms
- Motorcycles
- Garbage trucks
- Fuel trucks
- Ambulances
- Fire trucks
- Marked government vehicles
- Marked media vehicles
- Motor vehicles carrying essential or perishable goods
It is worth reiterating that Makati City has a more limited list of exemptions, primarily focusing on emergency and official vehicles. In Makati, the exemptions are largely limited to:
- Ambulances, fire trucks, police patrol cars, and military vehicles on official duty
- Vehicles with diplomatic license plates
- Marked government vehicles
- Marked media vehicles in official use
- Makati City-accredited tow trucks
- Vehicles used by medical practitioners during emergencies
- Vehicles driven by or carrying Senior Citizen Blu Card holders
If you believe your vehicle qualifies for an exemption, always carry the necessary documentation to present to traffic enforcers if required.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Manila Car Coding Schedule
To further clarify any lingering doubts, here are answers to some frequently asked questions about the number coding scheme in Manila:
1. What are the window hours in number coding exactly?
Outside of Makati City, the window hours in Metro Manila are from 10:01 AM to 4:59 PM and then again from 8:01 PM to 6:59 AM the next day. During these hours, vehicles that would otherwise be restricted by the number coding scheme can travel on covered roads.
2. Is the number coding scheme enforced on holidays and weekends in Metro Manila?
No, the MMDA typically suspends the number coding scheme in Metro Manila on weekends and nationally declared holidays. Additionally, the scheme may be lifted during calamities, significant public transportation disruptions, or special events like the President’s State of the Nation Address (SONA). Always stay updated through official MMDA announcements during these times.
3. Are healthcare workers exempt from number coding in Manila?
As of May 2022, the MMDA has provided an exemption for vehicles driven by or carrying medical doctors. To avail of this exemption, doctors must present a valid Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) ID. It’s important to note that this specific exemption currently applies only to doctors, and other healthcare workers are generally still required to adhere to the coding scheme. It’s advisable to check for the most current guidelines as these policies can evolve.
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. In Makati, motorcycles are subject to the number coding rules. For all other cities in Metro Manila under the MMDA’s jurisdiction, motorcycles are permitted to travel regardless of the last digit of their license plate.
5. What is the penalty for violating the number coding scheme?
The standard penalty for violating the number coding scheme typically ranges from ₱300 to ₱500, depending on the city where the violation occurs. It is crucial to settle any fines promptly, ideally within seven days, to avoid potential increases in the penalty and any complications during driver’s license renewal processes.
Navigate Manila Roads Smartly
The Manila car coding schedule, while seemingly complex at first glance, is a manageable system once you understand its rules, schedules, and exemptions. By staying informed and planning your journeys accordingly, you can effectively navigate Metro Manila roads and contribute to smoother traffic flow. As car experts at carcodescanner.store, we encourage you to stay updated on traffic regulations and drive safely. Understanding and respecting these regulations is not just about avoiding fines; it’s about making city driving a better experience for everyone.
