MMDA defers implementation of modified odd-even scheme

MANILA—The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has deferred the implementation of ‘Windows 2’ or the modified odd-even scheme for private vehicles after the Metro Manila Council, consisting of city mayors and heads of municipalities across the National Capital Region, did not approve the proposal.

In a statement, the MMDA explained that the local chief executives directed the agency to consult various stockholders on the scheme and make the necessary revisions.

MMDA General Manager Thomas Orbos has explained that the modified odd-even scheme would be implemented through a two-hour period for vehicles with digits ending in odd and even numbers from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.

“The odd-even ban would be every two hours which means from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. – odd; 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. – even; grace period from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.; 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. – odd; 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. – even; 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. – odd; and 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. – even,” Orbos stated.

The scheme would cover private vehicles and those registered with ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Grab, while public utility vehicles are to be exempted.

The modified odd-even scheme is just one of the solutions being considered by the MMDA to ease congestion across the metropolis.

These initiatives include the transfer of the Southwest Integrated Provincial Bus Terminal, ban on light trucks during rush hours along EDSA and Shaw Blvd., and expansion of Roxas Blvd. and Baclaran for northbound vehicles through the removal of illegal terminals and clearing of illegally parked vehicles for motorists to use the additional lanes along the service road.

“The MMDA emphasizes that finding viable measures to address the traffic problem in Metro Manila is a continuous process and may entail drastic changes and deviation from the present norms. The agency is appealing to the public for cooperation and understanding,” the agency said.