Odd-even measure on EDSA will 'totally replace' the regular number coding scheme—MMDA
The Metro Manila Development Authority has clarified that the odd-even traffic scheme that will be implemented in EDSA during its rehabilitation period will eventually replace the regular number coding scheme.
In an interview on Ted Failon and DJ Chacha's radio program, MMDA Chairman Romando Artes elaborated on a new traffic measure set to launch on June 16. This scheme aims to reduce vehicle volume by 40% through license plate restrictions.
"Ang odd-even scheme will totally replace ‘yung existing natin so far as EDSA is concerned. So bawat sasakyan po, so far as EDSA is concerned, ay tatlong beses silang mako-cover ng number coding scheme," he said.
"Ito naman po ay ida-dry run natin for one month, meaning wala pong huling gagawin. Iga-guide lang po sila, sisitahin, pero hindi po mag-iissue ng ticket for one month," he added.
Initially, the dry run was intended to last only for a week, but Artes said they decided to extend it to a month. This decision aims to give both the MMDA and motorists more time to prepare and fully understand the new system.
The extension will also allow the scheme to coincide with the waiving of toll fees on Skyway Stage 3 sometime in July, giving an alternative way for drivers who will be affected.
"According to [Department of Transportation] Sec. Vince Dizon, nag-usap na po sila ng operator ng Skyway. Fina-final na lang po nila 'yung adjustment to compensate para doon sa dalawang taon na magiging libre 'yung portion," Artes said.
He also clarified that the odd-even scheme will not apply to those who will cross over EDSA.
"Kunyari Ortigas, tatawid ka ng EDSA papunta sa kabila, 'yun po ay hindi huhuliin. Ganun din po sa may Quezon Avenue, or sa East Avenue, 'yung mga ganun po, hindi po siya huhuliin," Aretes clarified, adding that electric and hybrid vehicles are exempted. "Although 'yun ay pag-aaralan pa naming mabuti."
Ride-hailing services such as taxis will also not be covered by the odd-even measure.
After the dry run, that is when road officers will issue tickets for violators.
The scheme will operate as follows:
- Plates ending in odd numbers (1, 3, 5, 7, 9) will be prohibited on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.
- Plates ending in even numbers (0, 2, 4, 6, 8) will be prohibited on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
- All vehicles will be allowed on Sundays.
This is just one of the measures being implemented for the long-anticipated EDSA Rehabilitation Project, a major infrastructure initiative aimed at reviving one of Metro Manila's most congested and deteriorated thoroughfares. For more information about this, here's what you need to know about the EDSA rehabilitation.
