The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) will deploy a total of 1,148 personnel in key areas across National Capital Region (NCR) to ease traffic congestion in time for the commemoration of “Undas” or All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, and for the Christmas season.
MMDA Acting Chairperson Don Artes said on Friday, Oct. 20, that the personnel will be stationed along major thoroughfares in NCR, Mabuhay streets, and other congested locations.
Most of the personnel will be positioned on roads connecting provincial bus stations, airports, and large churches to ensure the safety of the commuters, he noted.
The MMDA and mall operators in NCR have also agreed to implement an “11-to-11” scheme where malls shall operate between 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. The scheme will be in effect starting Nov. 13 to Jan. 8.
“Sa katapusan ng linggo lamang papayagan ang mga deal sa buong mall. Bukod pa rito, ang mga deliveries ay gagawin lang mula 11 p.m. hanggang 5 a.m. at ang mga paghahatid ng mga nabubulok na item ay hindi kasama sa panuntunan (Only on weekends will mall-wide deals be permitted. Additionally, deliveries will only be made from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. and deliveries of perishable items, and deliveries of perishable items are excluded from the rule),” said Artes.
The MMDA has requested cooperation from municipal officials and local traffic bureau officials for the deployment of a traffic auxiliary as it anticipates an increase in traffic volume during the said period.
Further, Artes warned that violations for illegal parking and blockage of roads would result in traffic officials issuing citation tickets.
The MMDA has also ordered local government units to strictly enforce one-way parking to ease traffic congestion in their areas.
Holiday security
To preserve peace throughout the holiday season, Artes said they also coordinated with the Philippine National Police (PNP) to intensify security operations. Around 10,000 police officers are expected to be deployed across Metro Manila for the holiday season.
They will serve as highway patrol members who will keep an eye on the highways, as well as marshals who will board public utility vehicles to ensure the passengers' safety.
“Expect that there will be police aid stations at airports and shopping malls [and in] tourism areas," said Artes.
Artes also advised the public to strengthen their security measures at home by installing security lighting to discourage robbers, and keeping cash and wallets in front pockets of their garments or bags. (Trixee Rosel)