MMDA, PCG, PNP, AND TRANSPORT TERMINALS PREPARING FOR UNDAS

Several agencies and local transport terminal are preparing for the upcoming long holiday in commemoration for All Saints Day and All Souls Day. The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) have started coordination meetings with NCR traffic heads, including the PNP NCRPO and the HPG.

Local government units have been advised to submit traffic plans especially the schedule of major road closures ahead of time to prevent traffic congestion especially on roads leading to cemeteries according to MMDA Traffic Enforcement Group Chief Atty Victor Nunez.

Local agencies are gearing up as traffic, and surge of passengers are expected at transport terminals for the upcoming long weekend (Photo courtesy of Danny Pata/GMA News)

The MMDA has also coordinated with representatives of big terminals in Quezon City, Caloocan, Pasay, Manila, and Paranaque for the expected exodus of Filipinos bound for the provinces starting this weekend.

A total 1,257 MMDA personnel will be deployed to manage the increased number of departing passengers. Commuter help desks will also be setting up and the agency’s headquarters will be closely monitoring the situation.

“We will activate our Oplan Undas 2024 from Oct. 27 to Nov. 4 to ensure a safe observance of remembering our departed loved ones. We will also implement the no day off, no absent policy for our traffic personnel,” MMDA Chair Don Artes said.

In NAIA, Philippine National Police Aviation Security Unit (AVSEU) will deploy additional manpower and heighten security at the country's main gateway. Office for Transportation Security (OTS) aid they will activate 24/7 their Transportation Security Operations Center to assist passengers with security concerns and for timely reporting of incidents.

The Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) is expecting over 2.4 million from October 21 to November 5 foot traffic. "Passengers are encouraged to arrive early and to check the schedules of their respective buses ahead of time. PITX also advises passengers to strictly follow safety protocols and guidelines in place for a smoother and safer travel experience."

Furthermore, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) will also place its operating units on heightened alert starting Oct. 31 or on Thursday next week. K9 units will also conduct regular inspections on ports, while PCG rescuers and lifeguards will also be stationed in beaches, island resorts, and other coastal vacation spots for security and public safety.

Also, several local government units have released an advisory for the upcoming Undas including the schedule of cemeteries, guidelines, and reminders for the observance of the All Saints’ and Souls’ Days.

Items such as alcoholic beverages, firearms, sharp and pointed objects, flammable materials, gambling paraphernalias, and loud sound system such as videoke machines are prohibited inside of all the cemeteries.

Source: Philippine News Agency

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