The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) inspected Wednesday the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX), days ahead of the long weekend for the observance of Undas.

MMDA chair Benhur Abalos said traffic management plans are in place as an increase of passengers going home to the 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.

Traffic enforcers are positioned at intersections near bus terminals for a “faster turnaround 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 said.

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

He said members of the Road Emergency Group would carry out 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 or number coding for all vehicles and truck ban remains suspended.

On Tuesday, Abalos inspected cemeteries in Metro Manila three days before its closure from October 29-November 2.

He visited the North Cemetery in Manila City, and Garden of Life Park in Mandaluyong City to check their compliance with the IATF guidelines on the closure of cemeteries, memorial parks, and columbaria to minimize the risk of Covid-19 transmission. (PNA)