Number coding in effect — MMDA

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) clarified yesterday that it would not lift the number coding on public and private vehicles today despite the earlier declaration of Malacañang that Oct. 31 was a special holiday.

MMDA General Manager Robert Nacianceno said vehicles with plate numbers ending in 9 and 0 are banned in Metro Manila from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. and from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Metro Base and the Public Information Office of MMDA had been receiving a lot of telephone inquiries in connection with the scheme. Thousands are expected to return to their respective provinces in observance of All Saints’ and All Souls’ Day.

He admitted that the public has been accustomed to the lifting of the number coding scheme during holidays. But this time, MMDA Chairman Bayani Fernando said "no."

"It is not a public holiday. The private sector is not even covered by the holiday. It would still be up to their respective offices if they want their employees to report for work," Nacianceno said.

Fernando, he said, is aware that some people might want to use their cars when they travel to the provinces.

"That is why he said "no." It is expected there would be heavy traffic. If he lifts number coding the additional vehicles would only contribute to the heavy traffic," he pointed out.

Nacianceno said motorists could still avail of the "window hour." "Puwede pa silang bumiyahe from 10 a.m. to 3p.m."

MMDA Executive Director Angelito Vergel de Dios, of the Traffic Operations Center (TOC), said they expect government employees to take advantage of the extra day off to leave Metro Manila earlier than those working in the private sector. – Evelyn Macairan