AFTER conducting inspection at public cemeteries, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Benhur Abalos inspected on Wednesday the Paranaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) days ahead of the long weekend for the observance of “Undas”

Chairman Abalos said traffic management plans are in place as an increase of passengers going home to their provinces to commemorate All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day is expected.

“As Undas approaches, we are beginning to see an increase in the number of passengers. What is important here is we are ready. We are coordinating with local government units and all other concerned for the safety of the public,” Abalos said.

Abalos said traffic enforcers are positioned at intersections near bus terminals for a faster turn-around of buses and manage traffic on perennial choke point areas in Metro Manila.

“We have deployed additional manpower, in joint coordination with the local government units, to manage the traffic all over the metropolis,” Abalos added.

He also appealed to the public to follow guidelines set by the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-MEID) and be mindful of the minimum health protocols against COVID-19, such as proper wearing of masks, face shield and physical distancing.

He said members of the Road Emergency Group shall conduct random or on-the-spot breathalyzer tests on bus drivers to determine whether or not they are under the influence of alcohol. Drivers who fail the test would not be allowed to drive unless they take a rest.

The implementation of the Unified Vehicular Volume Reduction Program (UVVRP) or number coding for all vehicles and truck ban remain suspended.

AUTHOR PROFILE

Edd Reyes