MMDA starts fining number coding scheme violators

At least 500 motorists received tickets from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. on Thursday as the expanded number coding scheme was implemented in Metro Manila. 

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) held a three-day dry run earlier this week, during which they only gave motorists a warning.

According to Emil Sumangil's report on Balitanghali, the MMDA said that a common refrain from violators caught today is that they were not aware that the morning segment of the vehicle reduction scheme was back.

"Hindi na po excuse 'yon dahil tatlong araw na tayong nagpu-public awareness campaign, kaya huli na po, maniniket na po tayo ngayon," said MMDA spokesperson Crisanto Saruca, Jr.

The expanded number coding scheme bars vehicles, depending on the last number of their license plate, on EDSA and other thoroughfares during the hours of 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. 

Image: MMDA

Violators will be fined P300. For three-time violators, the MMDA said, it will be up to the LTO to decide whether to have them attend a seminar or revoke their license. — Sherylin Untalan/BM, GMA News