As Metro Manila prepares for the EDSA Rebuild Project, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) is set to implement the Odd-Even Traffic Scheme to manage congestion. However, certain vehicles are exempt from the restrictions.
List of Exempted Vehicles
The following vehicles are not affected by the Odd-Even scheme and may continue using EDSA without restrictions:
- Electric vehicles (EVs), plug-in hybrids, and hybrids – Recognized under the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA)
- Motorcycles and non-motorized vehicles – Includes bicycles, scooters, and similar modes of transport
- Public utility vehicles (PUVs) – Covers buses, jeepneys, and taxis providing public transport services
- Transport Network Vehicles (TNVs) – Ride-hailing vehicles operating under accredited platforms
- Authorized government vehicles – Officially marked vehicles engaged in essential services
- Vehicles crossing EDSA via intersections – Those that briefly pass through EDSA to access roads on the opposite side
Odd-Even Traffic Scheme
The Odd-Even Traffic Scheme will begin its dry run on June 16. Under this policy:
- Vehicles with plates ending in odd numbers (1, 3, 5, 7, 9) are not allowed on EDSA on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.
- Vehicles with plates ending in even numbers (2, 4, 6, 8, 0) are restricted on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
- All vehicles are allowed, and no restrictions apply on Sundays and holidays.
The Odd-Even scheme is in effect for 24 hours, which means there are no window hours. The first month serves as a dry run, there will be no penalties issued during this time.
More Buses and Trains, Waived Toll Fees
To further support commuters, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) will be implementing the following measures:
- Increase the number of buses for the EDSA Bus Carousel
- Deploy more MRT-3 trains to accommodate passengers
- Waive toll fees on selected sections of Skyway Stage 3, in coordination with San Miguel Corporation and the Toll Regulatory Board
The two-year EDSA Rebuild aims to replace damaged pavement with reinforced concrete for better durability.
The segmentized repairs will start on June 13, prioritizing Pasay to Shaw Boulevard. Construction will be completed per lane every two months, beginning with the innermost bus lanes before moving outward. Stay tuned for further updates.
Featured image: Unsplash
