Passenger activity remains steady at the provincial bus terminals in Sampaloc, Manila, as commuters continue to head home for the Undas holidays.

As of Thursday noon, October 30, terminals along Lacson Avenue, España Boulevard, Earnshaw Street, and Dapitan Street reported a continuous flow of travelers bound for Central and Northern Luzon provinces.

At the Florida Bus Terminal on Lacson Avenue, dispatchers said passenger turnout has been strong since early morning, with most trips fully booked but still accommodating walk-in passengers.

“Hindi pa ganon kahaba ang pila pero tuloy-tuloy ang dating ng pasahero. Halos walang alawan sa biyahe, puno pa rin bawat alis (The lines aren’t that long yet, but passengers keep arriving. Buses are leaving one after another, and almost every trip is still full),” said Jun, a dispatcher at one of the Sampaloc terminals.

Drivers and bus crews were also reminded to stay alert and ensure their vehicles are in good running condition as they make back-to-back trips to Northern Luzon destinations such as Pangasinan, Tarlac, and La Union.

Despite the steady flow of passengers, terminal operations have remained orderly, with additional staff assisting travelers and checking tickets. 

Operators said they continue to accept walk-in passengers, even for those without prior reservations.

According to the Manila Traffic and Parking Bureau (MTPB), traffic in the Sampaloc area remains manageable, although vehicle volume is expected to increase toward the evening as more passengers arrive from nearby cities to catch provincial trips.

The Manila Police District (MPD) and MTPB have deployed additional personnel to assist commuters, manage terminal queues, and maintain smooth traffic flow along major roads such as España Boulevard and A.H. Lacson Avenue.

Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno" Domagoso reminded the public to travel early and stay alert, especially as the city anticipates heavier traffic and larger crowds until Friday night and Saturday, when the bulk of Undas travelers are expected to depart.

“Inaasahan natin na mas dadami pa ang uuwi hanggang mamayang gabi at bukas (We expect even more people to go home later tonight and tomorrow),” said Domagoso. “Pinaghahandaan na po ng ating lungsod ang dagsa ng mga biyahero para maging maayos at ligtas ang kanilang paglalakbay (Our city is preparing for the influx of travelers to ensure their journey is orderly and safe).”

Authorities advised motorists to avoid congested roads around Sampaloc and Blumentritt, and to use alternate routes where possible.

The city government continues to coordinate with bus companies to ensure sufficient trips and orderly operations throughout the long weekend.