MMDA removes number coding exemptions for senior citizens, PWD: Report

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority or MMDA may have brought back the number coding scheme and its attendant window hours, but it is also taking something away: the exemptions afforded to senior citizens and persons with disabilities (PWDs). 

The MMDA says that senior citizens and PWDs can no longer apply for number coding exemption

Top Gear Philippines reports that the MMDA has removed the privilege, as announced by MMDA council secretariat Atty. Crisanto Saruca Jr. “No exemptions considering that there are window hours,” he explained through a text message, although there is no official statement to this effect as of this writing. 

With the window hours in place, most motorists will be limited to driving on the road between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. on their coding days, except for public utility vehicles and other eligible cars. In Makati City, senior citizen holders of the Blu Card will still continue to enjoy exemption from the number coding scheme being implemented by the local government, as no window hours exist in the area.  

Window hours were restored when the agency brought back the number coding scheme this year

The MMDA permanently removed window hours from the number coding scheme in July 2017, coming to an agreement with the Metro Manila Council (MMC) to standardize the policy along major thoroughfares and alternate routes in March 2019. Vehicles would be banned on public roads the whole day, from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. 

Eligible motorists back then could apply for exemptions as senior citizens or PWDs by writing a letter to the MMDA chairman. This was submitted along with the vehicle’s official receipt and certificate of registration, the holder’s senior citizen card, and a Php 1,000 fee. The agency would occasionally ask for the holder’s medical certificate as an additional requirement.   

Vehicles carrying medical personnel were previously exempted under a modified number coding scheme 

In May 2020, the MMDA adopted a modified version of the number coding scheme in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, allowing exemptions for private vehicles that have two or more occupants observing physical distancing and wearing face masks. Exemptions were also given to vehicles carrying doctors, nurses, and other medical personnel.   

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