No UVVRP (Unified Vehicular Volume Reduction Program) or Number Coding Scheme for the holidays

In what could be either a good or a bad thing, the MMDA has lifted the number coding scheme or UVVRP (Unified Vehicular Volume Reduction Program) over the holidays. From December 24, 2018 until January 2, 2019, motorists can use all thoroughfares in Metro Manila without worries of being pulled over for a "coding" violation. Las Piñas City Traffic Management has followed suit with the MMDA to suspend their implementation of the number coding scheme. 

The City of Makati, which usually implements its own set of rules, is only lifting number coding on December 24, 25, 31 and January 1, 2019.

Along with this reprieve (or bane) for private vehicles, the coding for provincial buses will likewise be suspended. From December 21, 2018, until January 2, 2019, both Metro Manila and provincial buses are free to traverse the length of EDSA, end-to-end.

Yesterday, the MMDA also posted an announcement that motorists should prepare for what could be another “carmageddon” today, December 21st. In anticipation of the coming holidays, a deluge of motor vehicles, both private and public utility, is expected to make the usual jams along major thoroughfares like EDSA even worse. With people driving out to their provinces and with buses of people coming in and out of the Metro, the MMDA warns that what is normally a 20-minute drive could take up to 45, or even more as the day progresses. Choke points along EDSA that everyone should prepare to avoid are Balintawak, Cubao, Ortigas, Ayala, and Buendia.

Should you have no pressing reason to go or be out after office hours, everyone is advised to stay home to avoid the impending traffic. If this cannot be avoided, motorists should plan to take all possible alternative routes and leave well ahead of time.

Good news or not, everyone should enjoy the holidays and the break that comes with. Keep your heads cool in traffic, everyone!