(SPOT.ph) Many "solutions to traffic" have been thrown about by Filipinos over the years. From free public transport to—*checks notes*—ah yes, cable cars. None of these "solutions to traffic" have been more vigorously implemented than the number coding scheme that aims to reduce the volume of cars during Metro Manila rush hours by limiting which license plate numbers can be on the road on certain days.
The expanded number coding scheme from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. and from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. was brought back in August, in light of the long-awaited return of face-to-face classes. With on-ground and no-contact apprehension commencing and the P300 penalty being instated on Thursday, August 18, many are wondering if there are any exemptions to this number coding scheme.
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Is There Still a Number Coding Exemption for PWDs and Senior Citizens?
Previously, senior citizens and persons with disabilities could apply for number coding scheme exemptions in Metro Manila. However, that is no longer the case as of the August 2022 expanded number coding scheme, the MMDA has confirmed. Number coding exemptions for senior citizens and PWDs are gone in all cities unless the city has an ordinance that waives the rule.
As an example, you may know Makati City follows a different number coding scheme from the rest of Metro Manila, as its coding hours are from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. instead. Their number coding scheme exemptions also slightly different, as senior citizens are exempted from the Makati coding scheme as long as they are a registered voter, a resident of Makati, and—obviously—has the senior citizen card.
Makati City Traffic has confirmed, however, that there's no longer a coding exemption for persons with disabilities in the city, so best to be aware that PWDs currently have no number coding exemptions in any city within Metro Manila.
For more information, check out the official Facebook page of the MMDA or reach Makati City Traffic by calling 8844-3146.
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