Baguio City Suspends Number Coding Amid Fuel Price Surge


The city government has ordered the temporary suspension of the number coding scheme following continued fuel price increases that have disrupted public transportation services.

Through Executive Order No. 45, Series of 2026, Mayor Benjamin Magalong directed the halt of Ordinance No. 001, Series of 2003, or the Number Coding Scheme of Baguio City. The order was issued on April 7, 2026 and took effect immediately, covering the period from April 8 until April 24, 2026.





According to the executive order, the suspension is authorized under provisions of the ordinance that allow the mayor to temporarily lift the coding scheme in situations affecting public safety, comfort, and convenience. The order specifically cited the ongoing fuel price hike as a condition that has disrupted public transportation and reduced mobility in the city.

Fuel Price Hikes Hit Baguio

Recent fuel price hikes continue to affect motorists and commuters nationwide, with Baguio City experiencing even higher pump prices due to logistics costs.

Fuel Prices in Baguio (April 2026)

In Baguio, fuel prices are typically higher compared to nearby provinces due to transportation and logistics costs. Recent price boards from major fuel stations in the city show significant increases across both diesel and gasoline products.

These figures are based on actual pump prices captured from Shell, Petron, and Caltex stations in Baguio City on April 7, 2026.





Why the Coding Scheme Was Suspended

The city government said rising fuel costs have forced many public utility drivers to reduce or stop operations, resulting in fewer available jeepneys and taxis.

This has led to long queues, extended waiting times, and difficulty for commuters traveling to work, school, and essential destinations.

The mayor cited provisions in the ordinance that allow suspension during extraordinary circumstances that affect public mobility.




What the Suspension Means

During the suspension period, private vehicles will not be subject to the number coding scheme on weekdays.

This is expected to help augment transportation availability as fewer public utility vehicles operate.

Public utility vehicles such as jeepneys and taxis are not covered by the coding scheme.

Temporary Measure Under Evaluation

The suspension is described as an interim measure.

City officials will monitor traffic conditions, commuter experience, and overall mobility during the implementation period.

The goal is to determine whether removing the coding scheme improves mobility or contributes to congestion.




Public Advised to Carpool

Authorities are encouraging private car owners to practice carpooling to help address transportation shortages while minimizing traffic impact.

Public cooperation will play a key role in the success of this temporary measure.

Bigger Picture: Fuel Crisis Driving Policy Changes

The Philippines is currently experiencing rising fuel costs, which continue to impact transportation, business operations, and daily commuting expenses.

This ongoing situation continues to affect mobility, business operations, and daily life, prompting local governments like Baguio to adopt adaptive measures.




What Residents Should Expect

  • No number coding from April 8 to April 24, 2026
  • More private vehicles on the road
  • Continued transport shortages due to fuel costs
  • Monitoring of traffic and commuter conditions
  • Encouragement of carpooling

Looking Ahead

The city government is urging residents to remain patient and cooperative as it evaluates the impact of the suspension.

Further policies may be introduced depending on how the situation develops in the coming weeks.

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