Motorists are free to go anywhere to celebrate Chinese New Year this Friday, Feb. 9, as the implementation of the expanded number coding scheme is suspended that day, according to the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA).
MMDA issued this public advisory in line with Malacañang declaring Friday as a special non-working holiday nationwide, so that Filipinos and the Filipino-Chinese community can enjoy a long Chinese New Year weekend.
“Saan man ang destinasyon, laging tandaan: planuhin ang biyahe, sumunod sa batas trapiko, at mag-ingat sa pagmamaneho (Wherever you go, always remember: plan your trip, obey traffic laws and drive safely). Happy long weekend!” MMDA posted on X (formerly Twitter).
The MMDA implements the number coding scheme on regular days to ease traffic congestion in Metro Manila. Under this system, some vehicles are prohibited from traveling on certain days and coding hours, depending on the last digit of their license plates.
Chinese New Year falls on Feb. 10, a Saturday, this year.