The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) on Friday, March 31, said it will allow provincial buses to traverse Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA) in anticipation of the exodus of passengers during the Holy Week.

The agency said provincial buses will be allowed on EDSA from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. from April 3 to 5. 

Meanwhile, from April 6 to 10, they are permitted round-a-clock to travel along the major thoroughfare. 

“This is to allow the provincial buses to accommodate the  expected high number of passengers going to the provinces for the Lenten season and ensure the convenience and comfort of the commuters,” the agency said in a statement.

The MMDA said North Luzon-bound provincial buses must end their journeys at the bus terminals in Cubao, Quezon City.

Provincial buses from South Luzon, meanwhile, will terminate their journeys at Pasay City bus terminals.

Earlier, the MMDA announced that it will set up a multi-agency command center (MACC) at the agency's metro base in Makati City starting on April 3 to ensure a peaceful and meaningful observance of Lent this year.

The MACC is made up of representatives from the MMDA, Department of Transportation, Department of Public Works and Highways, Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board, Inter-Agency Council for Traffic, Land Transportation Office, Philippine National Police, and local government entities, according to a statement from MMDA Acting Chairman Don Artes.

According to the agency, the MACC will monitor the actual situation of major transportation hubs, particularly bus terminals in the city, from Holy Monday until April 6, Maundy Thursday, when an influx of passengers traveling outside Metro Manila is expected.