MMDA suspends ‘coding’ for 2 wks

Motorists can enjoy driving in Metro Manila without fear of being pulled over by traffic enforcers for violating the Unified Vehicle Volume Reduction Program (UVVRP), or "number coding," starting today until New Year’s Day.

Chairman Bayani Fernando of the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has suspended the UVVRP for 14 days during the holidays.

MMDA deputy chairman Cesar Lacuna said the UVVRP’s suspension is a Christmas gift to motorists. The MMDA said there was a need to "open every road" during the holiday rush.

"No apprehensions for two weeks, but our motorists should remember to be responsible drivers," he said in an interview.

Under the scheme vehicles with license plates number ending in 1 or 2 are banned on Mondays; ending in 3 or 4 on Tuesdays; 5/6 Wednesdays; 7/8 Thursdays, and 9/0 Fridays.

However, MMDA general manager Robert Nacianceno said enough traffic enforcers will be fielded to man "areas of concern" during the period.  

"Our personnel will still be there to guide motorists and implement other traffic laws," he said, at the same time extending his holiday greetings to the public.

The MMDA will be strictly implementing other rules and regulations especially against drunken driving to prevent accidents.

The idea is to "eat, drink and be merry" this Yuletide season, but don’t drink and drive or else face fines and penalties and even imprisonment, time and money that could be put to better use, the MMDA said. — Michael Punongbayan