Manila: The Metro Manila Council (MMC) on Tuesday approved exemptions for fuel tankers and cargo trucks carrying essential goods from the Unified Vehicle Volume Reduction Program (UVVRP), also known as number coding, and the truck ban.

According to Philippines News Agency, the exemption was made in response to requests from the Department of Energy (DOE) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). Both agencies emphasized the need for this measure to ensure the quick transportation of petroleum products and other essential goods. Romando 'Don' Artes, Chair of the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA), stated that this move is essential to maintain the unimpeded movement of energy sources and ease the mobility of goods amid the rising price of fuel products.

The MMDA will work closely with the DTI to identify the essential goods eligible for these exemptions. The resolution is set to take effect immediately after its publication in at least two newspapers of general circulation.

In preparation for the upcoming Holy Week, MMDA General Manager Undersecretary Nicolas Torre III announced that 2,476 personnel will be deployed to secure major roads, transportation hubs, and other key areas in the National Capital Region (NCR). This deployment will adhere to a strict no-day-off and no-absent policy for all traffic and field personnel to manage the anticipated heavy traffic during the Holy Week exodus.

Additionally, the MMDA has identified security hot spots, including land terminals, airports, seaports, and roads leading to churches. Torre also revealed that the UVVRP in the NCR will be suspended beginning at 12 noon on April 1 and will remain in effect until after Maundy Thursday and Good Friday, both regular holidays.

To further facilitate smoother traffic flow for commuters, provincial buses will be permitted on EDSA starting at 9 p.m. on April 1 until 6 a.m. on April 6.