MMDA postpones implementation of modified number coding scheme
The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) yesterday deferred the implementation of the Modified Number Coding Scheme which was supposed to start today, June 8.
Assistant Secretary Celine Pialago, MMDA spokesperson, said they have decided to indefinitely suspend its implementation.
“There is still no number coding next week until further notice,” she told the Manila Bulletin.
She said the MMDA opted to postpone the implementation of the modified number coding because of the limited number of public transportation.
“We have many commuters having a hard time getting a ride so we decided to defer it,” Pialago said.
Under the modified scheme, coded vehicles will be allowed to travel on major roads on the condition that they include at least one passenger to maximize the use of the vehicle.
MMDA said those exempted from the new scheme are private motor vehicles driven by health workers; and/or those with two or more passengers including the driver, provided that social distancing and the wearing of face masks are observed.
The agency exempted medical frontliners from the new scheme after it reaped backlash on social media for earlier announcing that frontliners are not exempted.
The modification on the number coding scheme, according to MMDA, is in line with MMDA Regulation No. 2020-001, Series of 2020, as agreed upon by Metro Manila mayors on May 26, 2020 which specified the conditions.